Rachna Garg | Cognitive Neuroscience | Excellence in Research Award

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Ms. Rachna Garg | Cognitive Neuroscience | Excellence in Research Award

Ms. Rachna Garg | Tecnia Institute of Advanced Studies under GGSIPU | India

Ms. Rachna Garg is an accomplished Assistant Professor and Psychologist at Tecnia Institute of Advanced Studies, Delhi, bringing over a decade of experience in teaching, research, and psychological training. She is pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology from Amity University, Gwalior, with a research focus on elderly mental health, resilience, and mindfulness-based cognitive interventions. She holds dual MBAs in Human Resource Management and Marketing, an MA in Psychology, and a B.Com (Hons) from Delhi University, reflecting a strong interdisciplinary background. Her scholarly output includes multiple international publications, book chapters, and research papers indexed in SCOPUS, Web of Science, and UGC-CARE. She has authored four book chapters with ISBNs and completed two major research projects on elderly mental health, alongside an ongoing Ph.D. empirical study. Her contributions extend to extensive training programs for MCD, NDMC, DIET, and SCERT educators, where she has delivered modules on communication, conflict management, learning disabilities, and sexual literacy. She has served as Convener for a notable Faculty Development Program on Indian Knowledge Systems. With an h-index of 1, a total of 10 documents, and 5 citations across ResearchGate and Google Scholar, she continues to advance impactful psychological research. She also holds editorial and reviewer roles in multiple reputed journals.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Garg, R. (2025, October 9). Rewiring the aging mind: A randomized controlled trial on the transformative impact of mindfulness-based cognitive behavioural therapy on depression and anxiety. Journal of Ecophysiology and Occupational Health.

Garg, R. (2025, September 13). Group-based mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral intervention for enhancing resilience and preventing depression and anxiety in at-risk elderly: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Rational-Emotive & Cognitive-Behavior Therapy.

Garg, R. (2025, July 2). Evaluating the impact of mindfulness practices on depression, anxiety, and stress in geriatric populations: A randomized control trial. The Learning Curve, (ISSN 2321-7057).

Garg, R., Awasthi, S., & Gupta, N. (2025, January 2). The role of a 10-week mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy intervention in managing depression, anxiety, and stress among the elderly: A quasi-experimental study. Journal of Neonatal Surgery, 14(21s). https://doi.org/10.63682/jns.v14i21s.5344

Garg, R., Awasthi, S., & Gupta, N. (2024, November). Mindfulness meets aging: The transformative power of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral interventions for mental health in the golden years. Indian Journal of Psychology, (ISSN 0019-5553).

Carmen Berenguer | Behavioral Neuroscience | Women Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Carmen Berenguer | Behavioral Neuroscience | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Carmen Berenguer | Universitat de Valencia | Spain

Dr. Carmen Berenguer is an Associate Professor in the Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology at the University of Valencia. She holds a degree in Psychology, a Master’s in Cognitive Neuroscience and Special Educational Needs, and a Ph.D. in Psychology with the distinction of Cum Laude and International Doctorate from the same university. Her research has consistently focused on neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), exploring cognitive, social, communication, and learning dimensions. In recent years, she has extended her work to examine comorbid conditions such as sleep difficulties and to design psychosocial intervention programs for families of children with ASD and ADHD. Dr. Berenguer has completed or participated in nine research projects and authored 20 books. She holds two patents related to psychosocial programs and augmented reality applications for educational and therapeutic purposes. With 54 published documents, her work has been cited in 994 scientific papers, accumulating a total of 1,077 citations and achieving an h-index of 17, reflecting her significant impact in developmental psychology and neurodevelopmental research.

Profiles: Scopus | orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

(2025). Characteristics, motivations and attitudes of students using ChatGPT and other language model-based chatbots in higher education. Education and Information Technologies.

(2025). Parenting stress in autistic and ADHD children: Implications of social support and child characteristics. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

(2025). Sleep disturbances in autistic children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

(2025). Augmented reality and learning-cognitive outcomes in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review.

(2025). Occupational stress, burnout, and job satisfaction amongst Spanish speech-language pathologists. International Journal of Speech Language Pathology.

Kareem Al-Khalil | Cognitive Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kareem Al-Khalil | Cognitive Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kareem Al-Khalil | University of Wisconsin – Madison | United States

Kareem I. Al-Khalil is a Multimodal Imaging Scientist at the Institute on Aging, University of Wisconsin-Madison, with extensive expertise in human development, family sciences, and neuroscience. He earned his Ph.D. in Human Development & Family Sciences, focusing on differences in brain activation and connectivity among college students with varying mathematical abilities, and holds dual M.Sc. degrees in Psychology and Experimental Psychology, as well as a B.Sc. in Biology. His professional trajectory spans postdoctoral research and associate positions at Duke University School of Medicine and the Mind Research Network, where he contributed to understanding neurocognitive processes in psychiatric and behavioral contexts. He has also served as a research analyst, teaching assistant, and graduate instructor, gaining substantial experience in experimental design, psychometrics, and cognitive neuroscience. Al-Khalil’s research contributions include peer-reviewed publications on connectomics, brain network disruption in HIV and substance use, and structural connectivity alterations associated with chronic cannabis use. His work has garnered a total of 201 citations, with an h-index of 8 and an i10-index of 7, reflecting his influence in the fields of cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging. Through his research, he advances understanding of brain function, network connectivity, and cognitive processes in health and disease, integrating behavioral science with multimodal imaging approaches.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Linked In

Featured Publications

Al-Khalil, K., Vakamudi, K., Witkiewitz, K., & Claus, E. D. (2021). Neural correlates of alcohol use disorder severity among nontreatment‐seeking heavy drinkers: An examination of the incentive salience and negative emotionality domains of the … Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 45(6), 1200–1214.

Hou, J., Rajmohan, R., Fang, D., Kashfi, K., Al-Khalil, K., Yang, J., & Westney, W. (2017). Mirror neuron activation of musicians and non-musicians in response to motion captured piano performances. Brain and Cognition, 115, 47–55.

Niehuis, S., Reifman, A., Al-Khalil, K., Oldham, C. R., Fang, D., & O’Boyle, M. (2019). Functional magnetic resonance imaging activation in response to prompts of romantically disillusioning events. Personal Relationships, 26(2), 209–231.

Gonzales, J. U., James, C. R., Yang, H. S., Jensen, D., Atkins, L., & Thompson, B. J. (2016). Different cognitive functions discriminate gait performance in younger and older women: A pilot study. Gait & Posture, 50, 89–95.

Calderon-Delgado, L., Barrera-Valencia, M., Noriega, I., & Al-Khalil, K. (2020). Implicit processing of emotional words by children with post-traumatic stress disorder: An fMRI investigation. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, 20(1), 46–53.

Noriega, I., Trejos-Castillo, E., Chae, Y., & Calderon-Delgado, L. (2021). Emotional memory processing in post‐traumatic stress disorder affected Colombian youth. International Journal of Psychology, 56(3), 387–393.

Kashfi, K., Al-Khalil, K., Hou, J., Fang, D., Anderson, R., Rajmohan, R., & Syapin, P. (2017). Hyper-brain connectivity in binge drinking college students: A diffusion tensor imaging study. Neurocase, 23(3–4), 179–186.

Kashfi, K., Fang, D., Hou, J., Al-Khalil, K., Anderson, R., Syapin, P. J., & O’Boyle, M. W. (2017). Spatial attention in binge-drinking and moderate-drinking college students: An fMRI investigation. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, 35(3), 260–278.

Swartz, M., Burton, F., Vakamudi, K., Al-Khalil, K., Witkiewitz, K., & Claus, E. D. (2021). Age dependent neural correlates of inhibition and control mechanisms in moderate to heavy drinkers. NeuroImage: Clinical, 32, 102875.

Yue Ding | Cognitive Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yue Ding | Cognitive Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yue Ding | Shanghai Mental Health Center | China

Dr. Yue Ding is a distinguished neuroscientist and biomedical engineer whose research focuses on the neural mechanisms of music and rhythm-based interventions for affective and anxiety disorders, particularly in children and adolescents. With a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Tsinghua University and a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Dalian University of Technology, Dr. Ding has extensive experience in both academic and industry settings, including leadership roles at Shanghai Mental Health Center, AI Institute at iFlytek, and Nielsen Consumer LLC, as well as a visiting scholar position at Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Ding’s research integrates neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality to develop personalized interventions, including closed-loop music therapies, rhythm interactive training, and controllable music generation models, supported by numerous national and municipal grants. His work also explores neural oscillations in depression and anxiety, taste perception, and language impairments in Alzheimer’s patients. He is actively involved in professional organizations, including the Art Psychotherapy Committee, Music Psychology Committee, and editorial boards of prominent journals such as Scientific Reports and Frontiers in Psychiatry. With 17 published documents, Dr. Ding has garnered 228 citations and holds an h-index of 8, reflecting his influential contributions to the fields of neuroscience, neuroengineering, and mental health research.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | Linked In

Featured Publications

Ding, Y., Hu, X., Li, J., Ye, J., Wang, F., & Zhang, D. (2018). What makes a champion: The behavioral and neural correlates of expertise in multiplayer online battle arena games. International Journal of Human–Computer Interaction, 34(8), 682–694.

Ding, Y., Hu, X., Xia, Z., Liu, Y. J., & Zhang, D. (2021). Inter-brain EEG feature extraction and analysis for continuous implicit emotion tagging during video watching. IEEE Transactions on Affective Computing, 12(1), 92–102.

Ding, Y., Zhang, Y., Zhou, W., Ling, Z., Huang, J., Hong, B., & Wang, X. (2019). Neural correlates of music listening and recall in the human brain. Journal of Neuroscience, 39(41), 8112–8123.

Ding, Y., Chu, Y., Liu, M., Ling, Z., Wang, S., Li, X., & Li, Y. (2022). Fully automated discrimination of Alzheimer’s disease using resting-state electroencephalography signals. Quantitative Imaging in Medicine and Surgery, 12(2), 1063–1077.

Ding, Y., Gray, K., Forrence, A., Wang, X., & Huang, J. (2018). A behavioral study on tonal working memory in musicians and non-musicians. PLOS ONE, 13(8), e0201765.

Zhang, Y., Ding, Y., Huang, J., Zhou, W., Ling, Z., Hong, B., & Wang, X. (2021). Hierarchical cortical networks of “voice patches” for processing voices in human brain. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 118(44), e2103518118.

Soheila Hosseinzadeh | Cognitive Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Soheila Hosseinzadeh | Cognitive Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Soheila Hosseinzadeh, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran.

Dr. Soheila Hosseinzadeh is a distinguished Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, with a rich academic background that spans nursing, physiology, and neuroscience. Over the years, she has made substantial contributions to neuroscience education and research, particularly in the fields of cognitive neurophysiology and addiction studies. Her expertise includes a wide range of advanced techniques such as event-related potential analysis, EEG-based neurofeedback, behavioral studies, and molecular tools like RT-PCR and ELISA. She has played a pivotal role in training students and developing neuroscience programs at multiple academic institutions, demonstrating a balanced commitment to both teaching and scientific innovation.

Academic Profile

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Soheila Hosseinzadeh’s academic foundation is deeply rooted in an interdisciplinary understanding of human physiology and neurological sciences. Her early career began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2000, which was soon followed by a Master’s degree in Physiology in 2003. Demonstrating a keen interest in the mechanisms underlying brain function and behavior, she further advanced her expertise by earning a Ph.D. in Neuroscience in 2013. These academic milestones laid a solid groundwork for her future in teaching and cutting-edge neurophysiological research.

Professional Endeavors in Neuroscience

After completing her Ph.D., Dr. Hosseinzadeh embarked on an academic and research-oriented career that has spanned over a decade. From 2014 to April 2022, she served as a neurophysiology course instructor at Babol University of Medical Sciences, nurturing future scientists with her in-depth understanding of brain physiology. Since April 2022, she has continued her academic contributions at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, where she teaches courses in Neuroscience and Addiction Studies. Her dual role as educator and researcher places her at the forefront of neuroscience education in Iran.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Hosseinzadeh’s research is focused on the interface of cognitive neuroscience and addiction studies. Her technical proficiency includes advanced neurophysiological techniques such as event-related potential (ERP) recording and analysis, quantitative EEG (QEEG)-based neurofeedback, and behavioral assessments in animal models. She is also experienced in molecular biology tools including real-time RT-PCR and ELISA, alongside rodent stereotaxic surgeries and flow cytometry. Her work often explores neural mechanisms underlying cognitive functions, brain plasticity, and responses to addictive substances—bridging lab findings with clinical relevance.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Hosseinzadeh has earned recognition for her expertise in neurophysiological and behavioral science. Her dual roles at prestigious institutions such as Tehran University of Medical Sciences reflect her trusted authority in the field. While her accolades are more rooted in impact and mentorship than in public awards, her consistent engagement in neuroscience education and translational research is a clear indicator of peer acknowledgment and professional respect.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Hosseinzadeh’s influence extends beyond academic teaching. By integrating theoretical neuroscience with hands-on technical applications like neurofeedback and EEG-based cognitive training, she fosters a research culture that promotes both clinical innovation and scientific discovery. Her guidance has shaped students and young researchers in multiple universities, many of whom continue to advance the fields of neurophysiology and cognitive rehabilitation across the country.

Legacy in Neurotechnology and Cognitive Health

Her pioneering efforts in cognitive task design and ERP analysis have significantly contributed to Iran’s growing reputation in brain research. As one of the few experts integrating neurofeedback with behavioral science and electrophysiology, Dr. Hosseinzadeh has helped establish a platform for neurotechnological interventions in addiction and mental health studies. Her legacy lies in creating an interdisciplinary approach that merges neuroscientific inquiry with practical healthcare applications.

Future Contributions and Vision

Looking ahead, Dr. Soheila Hosseinzadeh is poised to make even greater strides in neuroscience, particularly in the domains of addiction neurobiology, cognitive rehabilitation, and neurofeedback therapy. With continuous advancements in brain-monitoring tools and behavioral modeling, she aims to lead research projects that offer deeper insights into brain-behavior relationships and provide innovative treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders. Her vision includes developing collaborative research networks that connect Iranian neuroscience to global scientific conversations.

Publication

Piperine restores streptozotocin-induced cognitive impairments: Insights into oxidative balance in cerebrospinal fluid and hippocampus
M Khalili-Fomeshi, MG Azizi, MR Esmaeili, M Gol, S Kazemi, …
2018

Plasma microparticles in Alzheimer’s disease: The role of vascular dysfunction
S Hosseinzadeh, M Noroozian, E Mortaz, K Mousavizadeh
2018

Elevated CSF and plasma microparticles in a rat model of streptozotocin-induced cognitive impairment
S Hosseinzadeh, M Zahmatkesh, MR Zarrindast, GR Hassanzadeh, …
2013

Effect of methamphetamine exposure on the plasma levels of endothelial-derived microparticles
A Nazari, M Zahmatkesh, E Mortaz, S Hosseinzadeh
2018

Hippocampal DHCR24 down regulation in a rat model of streptozotocin-induced cognitive decline
S Hosseinzadeh, M Zahmatkesh, M Heidari, GR Hassanzadeh, …
2015

Increment of CSF fractalkine-positive microvesicles preceded the spatial memory impairment in amyloid beta neurotoxicity
L Karimi-Zandi, M Zahmatkesh, G Hassanzadeh, S Hosseinzadeh
2022

Arbutin intervention ameliorates memory impairment in a rat model of lysolecethin induced demyelination: Neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects
S Ashrafpour, MJ Nasr-Taherabadi, A Sabouri-Rad, S Hosseinzadeh, …
2024

Conclusion

Dr. Hosseinzadeh’s career reflects an exemplary blend of academic excellence, technical expertise, and visionary research in neuroscience. Her efforts have significantly advanced the understanding of brain function, particularly in the context of addiction and cognitive health. As a leader in her field, she continues to inspire the next generation of neuroscientists while actively contributing to translational research that bridges laboratory findings with clinical solutions. With her ongoing work and future vision, Dr. Hosseinzadeh stands out as a key figure in shaping the future of neuroscience in Iran and beyond.

Mona Fikry | Cognitive Neuroscience | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Mona Fikry | Cognitive Neuroscience | Best Academic Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr.  Mona Fikry, Faculty of Pharmacy-Cairo University, Egypt.

Dr. Mona Fikry Said, Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Chemistry at Cairo University, stands out as a dedicated educator, researcher, and mentor in the field of medicinal chemistry. Her academic journey reflects a blend of deep scientific knowledge and practical teaching expertise. She has supervised numerous postgraduate theses and published extensively in prestigious journals. Her research, particularly in the synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of novel compounds for neurodegenerative diseases, highlights her commitment to addressing real-world health challenges. Beyond her publications, Dr. Said’s influence extends through academic collaboration, curriculum development, and mentorship.

Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Mona Fikry Said began her academic journey with a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences, eventually channeling her passion for medicinal chemistry into advanced academic and research endeavors. Her early commitment to learning laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to both academic excellence and scientific innovation. This formative stage was marked by rigorous study and a growing interest in drug design and discovery, which shaped her professional focus.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Dr. Said has become a respected educator and mentor in her field. She has been actively involved in teaching a wide array of pharmaceutical chemistry courses and guiding numerous master’s and doctoral students through their theses. Her role extends beyond instruction, as she also participates in academic advising and serves as an external examiner for other institutions.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Said’s research is deeply rooted in pharmaceutical chemistry, with a particular focus on the development of novel bioactive compounds. Her most recent completed project, “Probing new 3-hydrazinyl indole phenacetamide derivatives as multitarget anti-Alzheimer: Synthesis, in vivo, in vitro, and in silico studies,” exemplifies her multidisciplinary approach to drug discovery. She integrates synthesis, pharmacological testing, and computational modeling to explore new therapeutic avenues, especially for neurodegenerative diseases.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

While not always publicly documented, Dr. Said’s scientific contributions are widely acknowledged through her publications in high-impact journals such as European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, Molecular Diversity, Bioorganic Chemistry, and Future Medicinal Chemistry. Her expertise is recognized by her academic peers, and her involvement in national academic programs highlights her standing in the pharmaceutical education community.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Through her publications in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, Dr. Said has significantly contributed to the body of knowledge in pharmaceutical chemistry. Her work bridges theoretical research and practical applications, influencing both the academic landscape and the early stages of pharmaceutical development. By mentoring postgraduate students and collaborating across institutions, she has helped cultivate a new generation of researchers in Egypt and beyond.

📘 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Said’s lasting impact lies not only in her research but also in her educational leadership. With each class she teaches and each thesis she supervises, she sows the seeds for future advancements in medicinal chemistry. Her continued involvement in clinical academic programs and university examinations ensures that her influence will resonate across institutions for years to come. Looking forward, her research aims to expand into more diverse therapeutic targets, further strengthening Cairo University’s role in pharmaceutical innovation.

🧬 Research Vision in Pharmaceutical Chemistry

With an enduring commitment to discovery, Dr. Mona Fikry Said envisions a research future driven by interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of cutting-edge techniques. Her dedication to the design and synthesis of multitarget agents reflects a broader mission to combat complex diseases like Alzheimer’s. In doing so, she positions herself at the forefront of modern pharmaceutical chemistry, where innovation and impact go hand in hand.

Publication

  • Synthesis of novel 1,3,4-trisubstituted pyrazoles as anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents
    FA Ragab, NMA Gawad, HH Georgey, MF Said
    2013

 

  • Design and synthesis of ibuprofen-quinoline conjugates as potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug candidates
    AM Ghanim, AS Girgis, BM Kariuki, N Samir, MF Said, A Abdelnaser, …
    2022

 

  • Pyrazolone derivatives: Synthesis, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, quantitative structure–activity relationship and in vitro studies
    FAF Ragab, NM Abdel-Gawad, HH Georgey, MF Said
    2013

 

  • Synthesis and selective inhibitory effects of some 2-oxindole benzenesulfonamide conjugates on human carbonic anhydrase isoforms CA I, CA II, CA IX and CAXII
    RF George, MF Said, S Bua, CT Supuran
    2020

 

  • Synthesis, molecular modelling and QSAR study of new N-phenylacetamide-2-oxoindole benzensulfonamide conjugates as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
    MF Said, RF George, A Petreni, CT Supuran, NM Mohamed
    2022

 

  • Synthesis and molecular docking of new imidazoquinazolinones as analgesic agents and selective COX-2 inhibitors
    HH Hassanein, HH Georgey, MA Fouad, AM El Kerdawy, MF Said
    2017

 

  • New NSAID conjugates as potent and selective COX-2 inhibitors: Synthesis, molecular modeling and biological investigation
    RM Bokhtia, SS Panda, AS Girgis, N Samir, MF Said, A Abdelnaser, …
    2023

 

  • Development of Isatin‐Based Schiff Bases Targeting VEGFR‐2 Inhibition: Synthesis, Characterization, Antiproliferative Properties, and QSAR Studies
    IA Seliem, SS Panda, AS Girgis, QL Tran, MF Said, MS Bekheit, …
    2022

 

  • Synthesis and computational studies of novel fused pyrimidinones as a promising scaffold with analgesic, anti-inflammatory and COX inhibitory potential
    MF Said, HH Georgey, ER Mohammed
    2021

 

  • Novel Curcumin Mimics: Design, Synthesis, Biological Properties and Computational Studies of Piperidone‐Piperazine Conjugates
    MA Youssef, SS Panda, DR Aboshouk, MF Said, A El Taweel, M GabAllah, …
    2022

 

✅ Conclusion

Through her unwavering dedication to pharmaceutical chemistry, Dr. Said has carved out a meaningful role in academia and research. Her work not only advances scientific understanding but also nurtures future innovators in the field. With a strong foundation in both teaching and research, and a vision for multidisciplinary innovation, she is poised to continue making impactful contributions to drug discovery and pharmaceutical education in the years to come.

Michael Leoncio | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Michael Leoncio | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Michael Leoncio, NIcklaus Childrne’s Hospital, United States.

Dr. Michael Leoncio is a dedicated pediatric critical care physician whose academic and professional journey reflects a deep passion for child health. Beginning with a dual degree in Chemistry and Physical Therapy, he went on to earn his D.O. from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. His clinical training took him from a pediatric residency in New Jersey to specialized fellowships at Miami Children’s Hospital, focusing on both general and cardiac pediatric critical care. Throughout his career, Dr. Leoncio has made significant contributions in the high-intensity environment of pediatric ICUs, shaping protocols, mentoring new clinicians, and improving outcomes for countless children.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Born in Hialeah, Florida, Dr. Michael Leoncio’s educational journey began with a strong dual foundation in Chemistry and Physical Therapy at the University of Miami, where he earned both his BHS and BA degrees. Driven by a passion for healing and science, he advanced to the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, obtaining his Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) in 2004. These formative years were marked by his unwavering dedication to medicine and a growing interest in pediatric health, setting the stage for his future specialization in pediatric critical care.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Following medical school, Dr. Leoncio completed a pediatric internship and residency at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in New Jersey. His experiences under the mentorship of Dr. Josh Rosenblatt solidified his commitment to caring for children facing complex health challenges. He then pursued advanced fellowship training in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine from July 2007 to June 2010 at Miami Children’s Hospital, under Dr. Balaganghadar Totapally. Continuing his pursuit of excellence, he further specialized with an additional year as a Clinical Fellow in Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care Medicine, guided by Dr. Anthony Rossi. These rigorous training years provided Dr. Leoncio with extensive hands-on experience in managing critically ill children with cardiac conditions.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Leoncio’s fellowship years were not only defined by clinical mastery but also by his engagement in cutting-edge pediatric and cardiac intensive care research. Working within high-acuity settings, he contributed to innovations in the care of neonates and children requiring intensive monitoring and support. His clinical insights have contributed to protocol advancements in cardiac intensive care, especially in the nuanced management of post-operative pediatric patients.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and professional career, Dr. Leoncio has garnered recognition for his commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care. His peers and mentors have consistently praised his diligence, leadership qualities, and dedication to the field of pediatric critical care. These commendations reflect not only his technical expertise but also his empathetic approach to both patients and their families during the most vulnerable times.

Publication

  • Prevalence of Arginine Vasopressin Deficiency among Children and Adolescents Declared Dead by Neurologic Criteria
    Cesar Esteban Larancuent; Valandrea Merilan; Michael Leoncio; Juan Manuel Lozano; Balagangadhar R. Totapally | 2025

 

  • Epidemiology and outcomes of children with accidental hypothermia: A propensity-matched study
    Totapally A; Leoncio M; Beltramo F; Keith Meyer; Raszynski A; Totapally BR | 2017

 

  • Serial cardiac troponin concentrations as marker of cardiac toxicity in children with status asthmaticus treated with intravenous terbutaline
    Kalyanaraman M; Bhalala U; Leoncio M | 2011

 

  • Therapeutic hypercapnia enhances the inflammatory response to endotoxin in the lung of spontaneously breathing rats
    Norozian FM; Leoncio M; Torbati D; Keith Meyer; Raszynski A; Totapally BR | 2011

 

🏁 Conclusion

Driven by compassion, expertise, and a vision for innovation, Dr. Leoncio stands as a beacon in the field of pediatric medicine. His commitment to critical care continues to inspire those around him and set new standards for excellence in child health. As he looks to the future, his ongoing efforts promise to elevate pediatric intensive care—ensuring that every child, no matter how critically ill, receives the best possible chance at recovery and life.

Wei Li | Cognitive Rehabilitation | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Wei Li | Cognitive Rehabilitation | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Wei Li, Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, China.

Professor Wei Li is a distinguished leader in the field of rehabilitation medicine, with a strong foundation in biomedical engineering and over 15 years of clinical and academic experience. Trained at Capital Medical University and PLA General Hospital, he now serves as a Professor, Chief Physician, and Director at the Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University. His contributions span across clinical rehabilitation, biomechanics, and innovative rehabilitation engineering. Through his leadership in national and provincial research projects, mentorship of young scholars, and roles in major events like the Beijing Winter Olympics, Professor Li has solidified his reputation as a pioneer and innovator in the integration of technology and patient care.

Profile

Scopus

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Professor Wei Li embarked on his academic journey with a deep passion for medical science and engineering, earning his Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the esteemed Capital Medical University. His early years were marked by rigorous academic training and a strong inclination towards the integration of technology in medicine. His postdoctoral research at the PLA General Hospital further shaped his expertise, especially in the realms of biomechanics and clinical rehabilitation. This foundational phase instilled in him a scientific rigor and a vision to bridge the gap between biomedical engineering and practical healthcare solutions.

🩺 Professional Endeavors

With over 15 years of hands-on clinical and academic experience, Professor Wei Li currently serves as a Professor, Chief Physician, and Director of both the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and the Department of Science & Technology at the Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University. His dual leadership roles reflect not only his clinical excellence but also his strategic insight in advancing research and development within the hospital. He plays a vital role in shaping the institution’s medical innovation ecosystem and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations that drive translational research into rehabilitation technologies.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Professor Li’s research centers around clinical rehabilitation, biomechanics, and rehabilitation engineering, where he explores advanced therapeutic interventions to enhance patient recovery outcomes. His work integrates cutting-edge biomedical engineering with evidence-based clinical practices, making notable strides in the development of customized rehabilitation protocols and assistive technologies. With six major research projects under his leadership—four as Principal Investigator—he has made significant contributions to projects funded by prestigious bodies like the National Key R&D Program of China, the Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation, and the Beijing Natural Science Foundation.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Wei Li has received numerous honors that reflect his outstanding service and innovation in rehabilitation medicine. He has been named a National Clinical Specialty Leader, an acknowledgment reserved for top-tier medical professionals in China. Notably, he was selected as a Medical Expert for the Beijing Winter Olympics, showcasing his role in elite sports medicine and rehabilitation support. His research achievements have garnered several provincial scientific awards, underlining his contributions to the field’s academic and practical advancements.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Professor Li’s influence extends beyond the hospital and research lab. He is a mentor to emerging scientists and postdoctoral researchers, guiding the next generation of rehabilitation engineers and clinical researchers. His mentorship has created a ripple effect in nurturing talent and promoting interdisciplinary research. He frequently participates in national academic forums, contributing to policy discussions and the development of standardized practices in rehabilitation medicine across China.

Publication

  • Title: Metabolism-Related Adipokines and Metabolic Diseases: Their Role in Osteoarthritis
    Authors: Zhang, Qian; Zhao, Yixuan; Li, Longfei; Li, Chen; Li, Wei
    Year: Not specified (likely 2024 or 2025 based on context)

 

  • Title: Surface Electromyography and Gait Features in Patients after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
    Authors: Wu, Xipeng; Zhang, Hao; Cui, Hongxing; Cao, Zhijie; Li, Wei
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Dorsal raphe dopaminergic neurons target CaMKII+ neurons in dorsal bed nucleus of the stria terminalis for mediating depression-related behaviors
    Authors: Wang, Wentao; Wang, Dan; Zhao, Di; Li, Wei; Li, Chen
    Year: 2024

 

 

🏁 Conclusion

Professor Wei Li’s career is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary excellence, where science, medicine, and technology converge to transform patient rehabilitation. His impactful research, visionary leadership, and unwavering dedication to both education and innovation continue to inspire the medical community. As he moves forward, his efforts are not only shaping the future of rehabilitation medicine in China but also setting a global standard for integrated, patient-centric care through biomedical innovation.

EMRE MISIR | Cognitive Neuroscience | Young Scientist Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. EMRE MISIR | Cognitive Neuroscience | Young Scientist Award

Assist. Prof. Dr.  EMRE MISIR, Baskent University, Turkey.

Dr. Emre MISIR is a distinguished psychiatrist and neuroscience researcher, whose academic journey began at Adnan Menderes University and led to specialization in psychiatry at Dokuz Eylül University. His professional career includes serving as a Specialist Physician at Yozgat City Hospital before transitioning to an academic role at Başkent University Faculty of Medicine. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience at Ankara University, focusing on Theory of Mind in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). His outstanding exam scores, professional memberships, and active research contributions underscore his dedication to advancing psychiatry.

Profile

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Born on July 16, 1989, in Şahinbey, Gaziantep, Turkey, Dr. Emre MISIR embarked on an academic journey rooted in a passion for medicine and mental health. He completed his medical education at Adnan Menderes University between 2006 and 2012, where his keen interest in the complexities of the human mind began to take shape. His dedication and academic excellence led him to pursue a specialization in psychiatry at Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, where he trained extensively from 2012 to 2017.

Professional Endeavors 🏥

Following his specialization, Dr. MISIR served as a Specialist Physician at Yozgat City Hospital from 2017 to 2020, providing essential mental health care to diverse patient populations. In July 2020, he transitioned to Başkent University Faculty of Medicine, where he continued his professional practice before taking on a more academic role. By April 2020, his expertise and commitment to education earned him a Lecturer position at Başkent University, where he has been actively involved in mentoring young psychiatrists and medical students.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

With a profound interest in the intersection of psychiatry and neuroscience, Dr. MISIR has dedicated his research to understanding complex cognitive and psychological disorders. Currently pursuing a doctoral program in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience at Ankara University, his research explores the intricate mechanisms underlying obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). His thesis, titled “Theory of Mind in Patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Relationship with Cognitive Functions, Overvalued Ideas, Insight, Schizotypal Personality Traits, and Other Clinical Characteristics,” under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Berna Binnur Kıvırcık Akdede, sheds light on the cognitive and neurobiological factors influencing psychiatric conditions.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Dr. MISIR’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in his outstanding achievements in competitive examinations. His remarkable performance in the TUS Clinical Exam (Fall 2012) with a rank of 101, and his high ALES Numerical score of 88.58 demonstrate his academic rigor. Additionally, his proficiency in English, certified by a YÖKDİL score of 88.75, further amplifies his ability to contribute to international research and collaboration in psychiatry and neuroscience.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Beyond clinical practice and academia, Dr. MISIR is an active member of key professional organizations, including the Turkish Psychiatric Association, the Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy Association, and the Clinical Neuropsychopharmacology Association, where he serves as the Treasurer. His contributions to these organizations reflect his dedication to advancing psychiatric research and improving mental health treatments in Turkey and beyond. Through his engagement in professional networks, he has been instrumental in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting evidence-based psychiatric practices.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

As a psychiatrist, researcher, and educator, Dr. MISIR continues to push the boundaries of neuroscience and psychiatric research. His work not only enhances the understanding of cognitive disorders but also paves the way for more effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. With his ongoing doctoral research and contributions to academic literature, he aspires to shape the future of psychiatric treatment, integrating neurobiological insights with clinical practice. His unwavering dedication to mental health and neuroscience ensures that his influence will extend beyond his current academic and clinical roles, leaving a lasting impact on the field.

Publication

  • Clinical Characteristics of Cognitive Subgroups of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

    • Authors: Emre Mısır, Raşit Tükel, Berna Binnur Akdede, Emre Bora

    • Year: 2025

 

  • Validity and Reliability Study of the Turkish Form of the 4th Version of the Mental Illness: Clinicians’ Attitudes (MICA) Scale

    • Authors: Emre Mısır, Yasemin Hosgören Alıcı, Zeynep Bozkurt, Hüseyin Batuhan Elhan

    • Year: 2024

 

  • Functional connectivity in rumination: a systematic review of magnetic resonance imaging studies

    • Authors: Emre Mısır, Yasemin Hoşgören Alıcı, Orhan Murat Kocak

    • Year: 2023

 

  • Synaptic dysfunction in schizophrenia

    • Authors: Emre Mısır, Güvem Gümüş Akay

    • Year: 2023

 

  • The effects of catechol‐O‐methyltransferase single nucleotide polymorphisms on positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

    • Authors: Emre Misir, Mutlu Muhammed Ozbek, Eren Halac, Serkan Turan, Gokce Elif Alkas, Remzi Ogulcan Ciray, Cagatay Ermis

    • Year: 2022

 

  • DSM-5 Anksiyöz Distres Değerlendirme Ölçeği Türkçe Formunun Major Depresif Bozukluk için Geçerlilik ve Güvenilirlik Çalışması

    • Authors: Emre Mısır

    • Year: 2020

 

  • Reliability and validity of the Turkish Version of DSM-5 Anxious Distress Rating Scale for major depressive disorder

    • Authors: Misir, Emre; Hacimusalar, Yunus

    • Year: 2020

 

  • THE BRIEF RESIDENT WELLNESS PROFILE: VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY OF TURKISH VERSION

    • Authors: Misir, Gamze Akyol; Balik, Gurcan; Misir, Emre; Kartal, Mehtap

    • Year: 2020

 

  • The concept of schizotypy and schizotypal personality disorder

    • Authors: Misir, Emre; Alptekin, Koksal

    • Year: 2020

 

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. MISIR’s career embodies a commitment to merging clinical expertise with neuroscience research to enhance the understanding and treatment of psychiatric disorders. His contributions to academia, professional organizations, and clinical practice solidify his role as an influential figure in modern psychiatry. As he continues to explore the intricate mechanisms of mental health, his work promises to shape the future of psychiatric care and inspire the next generation of researchers and clinicians. His journey is one of excellence, innovation, and unwavering dedication to mental health and neuroscience.