Sirous Rafiei Asl | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sirous Rafiei Asl | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sirous Rafiei Asl | Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences | Iran

S. Rafiei Asl is an active biomedical researcher whose work spans toxicology, pharmacology, microbiology, and infectious diseases. His research primarily explores the protective and therapeutic potential of natural compounds and pharmacological agents against various toxic and pathological conditions. He has investigated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of agents such as quercetin, bromelain, syringic acid, and Camellia sinensis extract, highlighting their roles in mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage in animal models. His studies also extend to antimicrobial resistance and biofilm inhibition, including in vitro and in vivo evaluations of zinc sulfate and carvacrol against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as clinical investigations into infectious diseases like Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever and parasitic infections such as Leishmania. Additionally, he has contributed to case studies in urology and immunology, including systemic lupus erythematosus research. With a growing body of scholarly work encompassing 8 indexed documents, he has achieved 75 citations from 63 documents, reflecting increasing recognition in his field. His current h-index is 3 and i10-index is 2, underscoring his meaningful contributions to biomedical science and the ongoing pursuit of evidence-based therapeutic interventions.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Mahdavinia, M., Alizadeh, S., Vanani, A. R., Dehghani, M. A., & Shirani, M. (2019). Effects of quercetin on bisphenol A-induced mitochondrial toxicity in rat liver. Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 22(5), 499.

Elahi, R. K., Rafiei Asl, S., & Shahian, F. (2013). Study on the effects of various doses of Tribulus Terrestris extract on epididymal sperm morphology and count in rat.

Rafiei-Asl, S., Khadjeh, G., Jalali, S. M., Jamshidian, J., & Rezaie, A. (2020). Investigating the protective effects of bromelain against inflammatory marker alterations induced by cadmium pulmonary intoxication in rat. Iranian Veterinary Journal, 16(2), 75–88.

Rafiei-Asl, S., Khadjeh, G., Jalali, S. M., Jamshidian, J., & Rezaie, A. (2021). Protective effects of bromelain against cadmium-induced pulmonary intoxication in rats: A histopathologic and cytologic study. Archives of Razi Institute, 76(5), 1427.

Moradi, M., Montazeri, E. A., Rafiei Asl, S., Pormohammad, A., Farshadzadeh, Z., & others. (2025). In vitro and in vivo antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of zinc sulfate (ZnSO₄) and carvacrol (CV) alone and in combination with antibiotics against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antibiotics, 14(4), 367.

Najafi, S., Rafiei Asl, S., Kajbaf, F., Changizi, Z., & Abbasipour, Z. (2024). Investigation of epidemiological factors and clinical pathology in suspected and affected patients with Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Ahvaz. Journal of Inflammatory Diseases, 28(1).

Sarkarian, M., Alishoushtari, A., & Rafiei Asl, S. (2025). Misplacement of nephrostomy catheter into inferior vena cava during percutaneous nephrostomy procedure: A case report. Translational Research in Urology, e226102.

Karen Kikuta | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Karen Kikuta | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Karen Kikuta | UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine | United States

Ms. Karen Kikuta is an accomplished MD Candidate at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine with expertise in neuroscience, immunology, and global health research. She earned her B.S. in Neuroscience with minors in Public Health and Biology from Santa Clara University and conducted advanced immunological studies at Stanford University’s Binns Program for Cord Blood Research, investigating immune cell subsets using flow cytometry and single-cell RNA sequencing. Her work has resulted in publications in high-impact journals, including Frontiers in Immunology and the International Journal of Infectious Diseases. Karen has contributed to seven major research projects spanning neurodevelopment, infectious disease, and translational medicine, notably pioneering studies on antenatal Zika virus exposure and its long-term neurobehavioral and cardiac outcomes in children. Her research portfolio includes 2 published documents, 45 citations, and an h-index of 2. She has presented findings at national and international conferences, reflecting her dedication to bridging laboratory discoveries with clinical application. As a member of the American Academy of Neurology and the American Neurological Association, Karen is committed to integrating scientific innovation with compassionate care to advance understanding and treatment of neuroinfectious and developmental disorders.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Research Gate | Linked In

Featured publication

Kikuta, K., Hernandez, C. J., Dunshee de Abranches, A., Damasceno, L., de Britto, J. A., Jardim Duarte, C., Vasconcelos, Z., Zin, A., Brasil, P., Moreira, M. E., & Nielsen-Saines, K. (2025). Academic and social-behavioral assessment in a prospective cohort of normocephalic school-aged children with antenatal Zika virus exposure. International Journal of Infectious Diseases, 159, Article 108026.

Marina Makri | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Marina Makri | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marina Makri, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.

Marina Makri is a multidisciplinary researcher whose academic and professional journey bridges biology, psychotherapy, and neuroscience. With foundational degrees in biological sciences and advanced training in counseling and clinical psychology, she has crafted a unique research identity focused on neurodegenerative diseases, genetic counseling, and caregiver support. Her contributions to numerous Erasmus+ and Horizon 2020 projects demonstrate her expertise in managing international collaborations, developing innovative educational tools, and promoting genetic literacy. Her dedication extends beyond research, as seen in her extensive volunteer work aimed at supporting caregivers and vulnerable populations through inclusive, science-driven initiatives.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Marina Makri’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in biological sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2010, followed by a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences, focusing on Ecological Design and Sustainable Development. Her academic curiosity soon led her into the field of mental health and counseling. Between 2014 and 2017, she pursued a Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychotherapy at the University of East London while simultaneously undertaking multiple advanced training programs in clinical diagnosis, child and adolescent psychopathology, and psychological assessment. This multidimensional academic background laid the groundwork for her current doctoral research at the School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, initiated in 2020.

🧠 Professional Endeavors in Neurodegenerative Research

Marina’s career reflects her deep commitment to neurological and cognitive health. Her most impactful contributions have emerged from her involvement in numerous EU-funded projects related to Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegenerative conditions. As a Research Associate and Project Manager for Erasmus+ and Horizon 2020 programs, she has played pivotal roles in initiatives like “Enhancing Genetic Knowledge for Neurodegenerative Disorders through Gamification,” “Genetic Counseling in European Universities,” and the internationally recognized “Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN).” These roles showcase her interdisciplinary expertise in genetics, cognitive science, and patient education.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Marina’s research portfolio is extensive and firmly rooted in supporting vulnerable populations through innovation and empathy. Her work spans cognitive rehabilitation, genetic counseling, and game-based learning for adults with disabilities. A unique blend of scientific inquiry and psychological understanding characterizes her contributions, as seen in projects such as Games4CoSkills and E.L.So.M.C.I., which explore educational and cognitive development through gamification. She is also deeply involved in supporting informal caregivers through initiatives like InfoCARE and S.IN.CA.L.A., contributing to both academic literature and real-world health policy enhancements.

🌍 Community Impact and Volunteering

Beyond research, Marina has consistently extended her expertise through volunteering. Her engagement with the Greek Carers Network EPIONI and the Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders reflects her commitment to accessible education and support for caregivers. Her initiatives often bridge generations and address the needs of underserved groups, such as women with physical disabilities and at-home caregivers, emphasizing equity and social innovation. Through these projects, she has elevated the voices of informal carers and contributed to a more inclusive healthcare model.

🧬 Accolades and International Collaborations

Marina’s collaborative work has garnered recognition on both national and European platforms. Her role as a Greek Coordinator for the Washington University-led DIAN study signals her integration into prestigious global research networks. Many of the Erasmus+ projects she has managed or contributed to have been distinguished for their innovation in health education, genetic literacy, and caregiver support. These endeavors reflect not only her organizational excellence but also her scientific credibility and capacity for thought leadership in neuroscience and genetics.

💡 Legacy and Future Contributions

Marina Makri is poised to be a leading figure in integrating mental health, neurogenetics, and public education. With a PhD nearing completion and a decade of hands-on project experience, she stands ready to shape future directions in personalized medicine and cognitive care. Her vision aligns with emerging global priorities—promoting early detection, democratizing genetic knowledge, and developing engaging tools for lifelong learning and mental resilience.

🌟 Influence and Inspiration

Marina’s multifaceted career has left a meaningful imprint on the fields of neuroscience, psychology, and community health. Her synthesis of biology, psychotherapy, and digital innovation serves as an inspiring model for young researchers seeking to make a societal impact through science. By harmonizing rigorous academic research with compassionate care, she continues to influence both clinical practices and educational frameworks—contributing to a future where science and humanity go hand in hand.

publication

Title: Interventions for Caregivers of People with Dementia in Greece
Author: Marina Makri
Year: 2017

 

🏁 Conclusion

Marina Makri exemplifies the modern researcher who not only advances scientific knowledge but also ensures it reaches and benefits the wider community. Her work in genetics, cognitive health, and caregiver education underscores a commitment to interdisciplinary solutions and social impact. As she completes her PhD, her trajectory suggests continued influence in neurocognitive research, public health education, and inclusive policy development—making her a promising and impactful leader in the field of neuroscience and health psychology.