Che Ping Cheng | Translational Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Che Ping Cheng | Translational Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Che Ping Cheng, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, United States.

Dr. Che Ping Cheng, M.D., Ph.D., FAHA, is a distinguished cardiovascular physiologist and internal medicine specialist whose career has been dedicated to advancing the understanding of heart function and failure. From earning his medical degree in China to completing a Ph.D. in Physiology at Wayne State University, and later conducting pivotal postdoctoral research at Wake Forest School of Medicine, Dr. Cheng has consistently pursued excellence in science and education. His research on ventricular mechanics, volume loading, and heart failure has significantly influenced both experimental cardiology and clinical practice. Recognized as a Fellow of the American Heart Association, he is also a dedicated mentor, shaping the next generation of cardiovascular researchers through his academic leadership.

Profile

Scopus

 

šŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Che Ping Cheng’s journey into medicine and science began in Nanjing, China, where he earned his M.D. degree from Nanjing Railway Medical University in 1977. His early academic path reflected a deep interest in understanding the intricacies of human health, particularly in cardiovascular physiology. Driven by a desire to expand his knowledge and research capabilities, Dr. Cheng pursued his Ph.D. in Physiology at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan, completing his degree in 1986. Under the mentorship of Dr. Robert S. Shepard, his doctoral work focused on exploring the mechanisms of cardiovascular response to volume loading in a canine model with tricuspid valvulectomy, setting a strong foundation for his lifelong focus on heart function and disease mechanisms.

🩺 Professional Endeavors

Following his academic training, Dr. Cheng embarked on postdoctoral studies at the Bowman Gray School of Medicine (now part of Wake Forest School of Medicine), where he continued to cultivate his expertise in internal medicine and cardiovascular physiology. Between 1986 and 1988, he served as a Postdoctoral Fellow under the guidance of Dr. William C. Little. His research during this period focused on ventricular dynamics and the physiological factors affecting active ventricular filling, which would later inform his broader work on heart failure and cardiac function. Dr. Cheng has since remained at Wake Forest School of Medicine, where he is currently a distinguished member of the Section on Cardiovascular Medicine.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Cheng’s career has been characterized by a deep commitment to advancing the understanding of cardiac hemodynamics, ventricular interaction, and heart failure mechanisms. His research has explored how ventricular function responds under altered physiological states, and how these responses inform disease progression and treatment strategies. His early animal model studies have provided critical insights into the interplay between structural and functional changes in the heart, especially in the context of diastolic dysfunction and volume overload conditions. Dr. Cheng has also made significant strides in translating these findings to clinical contexts, influencing how cardiologists approach diagnosis and therapy.

šŸ… Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Dr. Cheng has received considerable recognition for his scholarly contributions. He is a Fellow of the American Heart Association (FAHA), an honor that reflects his standing in the field of cardiovascular research and his commitment to scientific excellence. His work has earned the respect of colleagues and institutions alike, leading to numerous invitations to contribute to collaborative projects, serve on peer-review panels, and mentor future generations of cardiovascular researchers.

šŸŒ Impact and Influence

Dr. Cheng’s work has had a lasting impact on both experimental and clinical cardiology. By elucidating the mechanistic basis of ventricular dysfunction, he has helped shift paradigms in heart failure management, particularly in the areas of ventricular interdependence and preload responsiveness. His research findings are frequently cited in textbooks and high-impact journals, and they continue to inform guidelines for cardiac care and interventions. Through his work at Wake Forest and beyond, Dr. Cheng has played a pivotal role in bridging laboratory discoveries with bedside applications.

šŸ‘Øā€šŸ« Legacy and Mentorship

As a respected mentor and educator, Dr. Cheng has dedicated a significant portion of his career to training medical students, residents, and postdoctoral fellows. His mentorship has influenced numerous emerging scholars in cardiovascular medicine, many of whom have gone on to successful academic and clinical careers. His guidance combines a rigorous scientific approach with a deep sense of responsibility to patient care and scientific integrity, shaping a legacy that extends well beyond his own research output.

šŸ”¬ Future Contributions and Vision

Looking ahead, Dr. Cheng remains committed to the advancement of cardiovascular research, with a continued focus on uncovering the cellular and mechanical determinants of heart disease. His vision includes fostering collaborative projects that integrate biomedical engineering, imaging, and computational modeling to further understand cardiac performance. With decades of experience and a forward-thinking approach, Dr. Cheng’s future contributions are poised to leave a lasting mark on the field of translational cardiovascular medicine.

Publication

  1. Title: Increased CaMKII activation and contrast changes of cardiac β1-and β3-Adrenergic signaling pathways in a humanized angiotensinogen model of hypertension
    Authors: Sun, Xiaoqiang; Cao, Jing; Chen, Zhe; Ferrario, Carlos M.; Cheng, Cheping
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Heliyon

 

  1. Title: Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II activation promotes kidney mesangial expansion in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice
    Authors: Mikhailov, Alexei V.; Liu, Yixi; Cheng, Hengjie; Lin, Jen Jar; Cheng, Cheping
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Heliyon

 

  1. Title: Chronic GPR30 agonist therapy causes restoration of normal cardiac functional performance in a male mouse model of progressive heart failure: Insights into cellular mechanisms
    Authors: Zhang, Xiaowei; Li, Tiankai; Cheng, Hengjie; Groban, Leanne; Cheng, Cheping
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Life Sciences

 

  1. Title: Chronic Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein Kinase II inhibition rescues advanced heart failure
    Authors: Liu, Yixi; Shao, Qun; Cheng, Hengjie; Zhao, David Xiao Ming; Cheng, Cheping
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics

 

  1. Title: The Angiotensin-(1–12)/Chymase axis as an alternate component of the tissue renin angiotensin system
    Authors: Ferrario, Carlos M.; Groban, Leanne; Wang, Hao; Sun, Xuming; Ahmad, Sarfaraz
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology

 

  1. Title: Reversal of angiotensin-(1–12)-caused positive modulation on left ventricular contractile performance in heart failure: Assessment by pressure-volume analysis
    Authors: Li, Tiankai; Zhang, Zhi; Zhang, Xiaowei; Ferrario, Carlos M.; Cheng, Cheping
    Year: 2020
    Journal: International Journal of Cardiology

 

  1. Title: Female Heart Health: Is GPER the Missing Link?
    Authors: Groban, Leanne; Tran, Q. K.; Ferrario, Carlos M.; Wang, Hao; Lindsey, Sarah H.
    Year: (Not specified, but likely 2020 or 2021)
    Journal: (Not specified)

 

šŸ Conclusion

Dr. Cheng’s legacy is one of intellectual rigor, clinical relevance, and mentorship. His work has not only deepened the scientific understanding of cardiac physiology but has also shaped modern approaches to diagnosing and managing heart failure. With a career spanning continents and disciplines, Dr. Cheng continues to be a guiding force in cardiovascular medicine, and his future contributions are anticipated to further advance the frontiers of heart research and patient care.

 

Shumao Xu | Neurotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shumao Xu | Neurotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr.Ā  Shumao Xu, Fudan University, China.

Shumao Xu’s career embodies a fusion of material science, biomedical engineering, and neurotechnology, leading to remarkable advancements in neural interfaces and brain-computer interaction. His extensive research, industry collaborations, and prestigious funding awards highlight his influence in the field. With over 60 high-impact publications and thousands of citations, his work has significantly contributed to neuroengineering, setting the foundation for future innovations.

Profile

Orcid

✨ Early Academic Pursuits

Shumao Xu’s journey in academia began with a passion for innovation and exploration in neural interfaces and biomedical engineering. He pursued his Ph.D. at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), where he laid the foundation for his research in neural engineering. His early academic years were marked by rigorous studies in material science, bioelectronics, and neurotechnology, setting the stage for his groundbreaking work in neural interfaces. His commitment to excellence led him to postdoctoral training at the prestigious Max Planck Institute for Solid-State Research as an Alexander von Humboldt scholar, followed by further research at Pennsylvania State University and UCLA.

šŸ‘Øā€šŸŽ“ Professional Endeavors

Currently an Associate Professor and Principal Investigator at Fudan University’s Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence (ISTBI), Shumao Xu is recognized as a National Overseas Young Talent (2024). His professional trajectory has been defined by his commitment to advancing brain-computer interfaces and neurotechnology. Securing funding from prestigious organizations such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (Innovative Program), and the Shanghai Super Postdoctoral Program, he has spearheaded research that pushes the boundaries of neural engineering.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Shumao Xu has dedicated his research to developing state-of-the-art neural interfaces that revolutionize neurostimulation and brain-computer interactions. His pioneering work includes implantable neural electrodes, non-invasive deep brain stimulation, calcium imaging, and non-genetic optoelectronic neural interfaces. His research extends to the development of soft magnetoelastic energy harvesters, injectable fluorescent neural probes, and triboelectric neurostimulators for self-powered neural systems. His work is crucial in creating biocompatible and energy-efficient neurotechnologies that have the potential to treat neurodegenerative diseases and enhance brain function.

šŸ† Accolades and Recognition

With over 60 high-impact publications in renowned journals such as Advanced Materials, Nature Communications, Nano Letters, Matter, and Chem, Shumao Xu has established himself as a leading researcher in neurotechnology. His impressive h-index of 28 and more than 3,300 citations stand as a testament to the significance of his contributions. He has been honored with funding from the NSFC Oversea Young Talent program for his work on injectable fluorescent neural probes and received the Humboldt Foundation’s support for optoelectronic neural modulation. His research has gained international recognition, earning him industry collaborations and consultancy projects.

āš›ļø Impact and Influence

Beyond academia, Shumao Xu’s work has practical applications in the medical and technological sectors. His collaborations with leading industry giants, such as Showa Denko and Teijin in Tokyo, Japan, have translated his academic innovations into real-world applications. His research in neural interfaces and brain-computer technologies has the potential to revolutionize treatments for neurological disorders, offering new hope to patients with neurodegenerative diseases. His advancements in self-powered neural stimulation systems have paved the way for sustainable and long-lasting neurotechnologies.

šŸ’” Legacy and Future Contributions

As a visionary in neuroengineering, Shumao Xu continues to shape the future of brain-computer interfaces and neural modulation. His work is not only contributing to academic advancements but also influencing the next generation of researchers and engineers in neurotechnology. His ongoing research projects, including biocompatible neural electrodes and optoelectronic neural modulation, promise to drive innovation in the field. Through his relentless pursuit of scientific breakthroughs, he aims to bridge the gap between neuroscience and technology, ultimately transforming the landscape of brain-computer interaction and neurotherapy.

Publication

  • Artificial intelligence assisted nanogenerator applications

    • Authors: Shumao Xu, Farid Manshaii, Xiao Xiao, Jun Chen

    • Year: 2025

 

  • Advances in 2D materials for wearable biomonitoring

    • Authors: Songyue Chen, Shumao Xu, Xiujun Fan, Xiao Xiao, Zhaoqi Duan, Xun Zhao, Guorui Chen, Yihao Zhou, Jun Chen

    • Year: 2025

 

  • A comprehensive review on the mechanism of contact electrification

    • Authors: J Tian, Y He, F Li, W Peng, Y He, Shumao Xu, F Manshaii, X Xiao, Jun Chen

    • Year: 2025

 

  • Advances in Brain Computer Interface for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Communication

    • Authors: Yuchun Wang, Yurui Tang, Qianfeng Wang, Minyan Ge, Jinling Wang, Xinyi Cui, Nianhong Wang, Zhijun Bao, Shugeng Chen, Jing Wang et al.

    • Year: 2025

 

  • Tailored Terminal Groups in MXenes for Fast-Charging and Safe Energy Storage

    • Authors: Shumao Xu, Minyan Ge, Weiqiang Zhang, Yuchun Wang, Yurui Tang

    • Year: 2025

 

  • Heart-brain connection: How can heartbeats shape our minds?

    • Authors: Xu Shumao, Scott Kamryn, Manshaii Farid, Chen Jun

    • Year: 2024

  • Injectable Fluorescent Neural Interfaces for Cell-Specific Stimulating and Imaging

    • Authors: Xu Shumao, Xiao Xiao, Manshaii Farid, Chen Jun

    • Year: 2024

 

  • Multiphasic interfaces enabled aero-elastic capacitive pressure sensors

    • Authors: Xu Shumao, Manshaii Farid, Chen Jun

    • Year: 2024

 

  • Reversible metal-ligand coordination for photocontrolled metallopolymer adhesives

    • Authors: Xu Shumao, Manshaii Farid, Chen Guorui, Chen Jun

    • Year: 2024

 

  • Self-Thermal Management in Filtered Selenium-Terminated MXene Films for Flexible Safe Batteries

    • Authors: Pang Xin, Lee Hyunjin, Rong Jingzhi, Zhu Qiaoyu, Xu Shumao

    • Year: 2024

 

🌟 Conclusion

Shumao Xu’s pioneering research and dedication to neural engineering continue to push the boundaries of brain-inspired intelligence and medical advancements. His visionary contributions have paved the way for next-generation neurotechnologies that hold the potential to transform neurological treatments and human-computer interactions. As he continues his groundbreaking research, his legacy will inspire future scientists and engineers, driving forward the possibilities of neurotechnology for years to come.

Ketan Bulsara | Cellular Neuroscience | Excellence in Neuroscience Research Award

Dr. Ketan Bulsara | Cellular Neuroscience | Excellence in Neuroscience Research Award

Dr. Ketan Bulsara, University of Connecticut, United States.

Dr. Ketan Ramanlal Bulsara is a distinguished neurosurgeon, educator, and administrator whose career has been defined by excellence in academic leadership, innovative research, and patient-centered surgical advancements. With a strong foundation in medical education and training, he has held prestigious positions at leading institutions, making significant contributions to the fields of cerebrovascular and skull base surgery. His work in neurosurgical education, healthcare policy, and perioperative quality improvement continues to influence the next generation of medical professionals.

Profile

Google Scholar

 

šŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits: The Foundation of Excellence

Dr. Ketan Ramanlal Bulsara’s journey into the world of neurosurgery began with a strong academic foundation. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology and Neuroscience, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Davidson College in 1992. His passion for medicine led him to Duke University School of Medicine, where he earned his Medical Degree with Honors in 1996. Committed to mastering his craft, Dr. Bulsara underwent rigorous neurosurgical training at Duke University Medical Center, progressing through internship, residency, and chief residency roles. His dedication to specialized knowledge took him to the University of Iowa for a fellowship in Transoral Surgery and later to Duke’s Neurovascular Program for an advanced Endovascular Fellowship, earning CAST certification by the Senior Neurological Society.

šŸŽ‰ Professional Endeavors: Pioneering Neurosurgical Excellence

Dr. Bulsara has held esteemed academic and leadership positions throughout his career. Beginning as an Assistant Professor at the University of Missouri, he quickly ascended to directorship roles at Yale University, where he led Neuroendovascular and Skull Base Surgery Programs. His expertise and leadership took him to UConn Health, where he has served as Professor and Chief of Neurosurgery since 2017. As Program Director of UConn’s Neurosurgery Residency Training Program and Director of Operating Room Quality, he has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of neurosurgeons. His administrative impact extended further when he was appointed Interim Inaugural Chairman of UConn’s Department of Neurosurgery in 2024.

šŸ“š Contributions and Research Focus: Advancing Neurosurgical Innovation

Throughout his career, Dr. Bulsara has been at the forefront of neurosurgical research, focusing on cerebrovascular and skull base surgery, neuroendovascular techniques, and perioperative advancements. His tenure at Yale and UConn Health has been marked by groundbreaking contributions to neurosurgical methodologies, patient safety protocols, and cutting-edge surgical interventions. With a keen interest in medical policy and administration, he also serves as Chair of the UConn Health/University of Connecticut Dean’s Task Force on Coding and Documentation, ensuring optimal standards in medical practice.

šŸ† Accolades and Recognition: A Trailblazer’s Achievements

Dr. Bulsara’s exemplary work has earned him widespread recognition in academic, clinical, and administrative spheres. His leadership has been pivotal in strengthening neurosurgical departments and residency programs, earning respect from peers and students alike. His continued commitment to excellence led him to pursue an Executive MBA at Yale School of Management, which he completed in 2017, equipping him with advanced skills in healthcare management and strategic planning. Furthering his multidisciplinary expertise, he embarked on a legal education at the University of Connecticut School of Law in 2024, highlighting his commitment to integrating medicine, business, and law for the betterment of healthcare.

šŸ’” Impact and Influence: Shaping the Future of Neurosurgery

Dr. Bulsara’s influence extends far beyond the operating room. As a mentor, he has trained and guided numerous neurosurgeons, instilling in them the values of precision, innovation, and patient-centered care. His research and administrative contributions have shaped hospital policies and perioperative strategies, leading to improved surgical outcomes and enhanced healthcare delivery systems. His work in academic leadership continues to bridge the gap between medical practice, research, and education.

 

Publication

  • Spinal axon regeneration evoked by replacing two growth cone proteins in adult neurons – HM Bomze, KR Bulsara, BJ Iskandar, P Caroni, JH Pate Skene (2001)

 

  • Longitudinal molecular trajectories of diffuse glioma in adults – FP Barthel, KC Johnson, FS Varn, AD Moskalik, G Tanner, E Kocakavuk, et al. (2019)

 

  • Glioma progression is shaped by genetic evolution and microenvironment interactions – FS Varn, KC Johnson, J Martinek, JT Huse, MLP Nasrallah, P Wesseling, et al. (2022)

 

  • Accuracy of prediction instruments for diagnosing large vessel occlusion in individuals with suspected stroke: a systematic review for the 2018 guidelines for the early… – EE Smith, DM Kent, KR Bulsara, LY Leung, JH Lichtman, MJ Reeves, et al. (2018)

 

  • Perioperative complications in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion versus anterior–posterior reconstruction for lumbar disc degeneration and instability – AT Villavicencio, S Burneikiene, KR Bulsara, JJ Thramann (2006)

 

  • Vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging identifies the site of rupture in patients with multiple intracranial aneurysms: proof of principle – CC Matouk, DM Mandell, M Günel, KR Bulsara, A Malhotra, R Hebert, et al. (2013)

 

  • Safety of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion and intervertebral recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein—2 – AT Villavicencio, S Burneikiene, EL Nelson, KR Bulsara, M Favors, et al. (2005)

 

  • Laminectomy versus percutaneous electrode placement for spinal cord stimulation – AT Villavicencio, JC Leveque, L Rubin, K Bulsara, JP Gorecki (2000)

 

  • Indications for thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke from emergent large vessel occlusion (ELVO): report of the SNIS Standards and Guidelines Committee – M Mokin, SA Ansari, RA McTaggart, KR Bulsara, M Goyal, M Chen, et al. (2019)

 

  • Review of the literature on de novo formation of cavernous malformations of the central nervous system after radiation therapy – SM Nimjee, CJ Powers, KR Bulsara (2006)

 

šŸ’Ŗ Conclusion

A visionary in neurosurgery, Dr. Bulsara’s impact transcends surgical practice, reaching into medical education, research, and healthcare administration. His multidisciplinary approach—combining medicine, business, and law—positions him as a leader in shaping the future of healthcare. His commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that his contributions will continue to elevate neurosurgical standards and inspire future generations of medical professionals.