Haoqiang Sun | Systems Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Haoqiang Sun | Systems Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Haoqiang Sun, Xi’an Jiaotong University, School of Management, China.

Haoqiang Sun is an emerging scholar in Management Science and Engineering, currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Xi’an Jiaotong University, where he is exploring multimodal big data analysis and user-generated content. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Information and Computing Science, followed by a Master’s in Resources and Environment. Throughout his studies, Haoqiang has demonstrated a keen interest in data analysis, which has led to his current focus on practical applications in tourism and business. In addition to his research, he serves as a teaching assistant, mentoring students in advanced statistical analysis. His work is funded by prominent national programs, highlighting his potential to make significant contributions to his field.

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Haoqiang Sun’s academic journey began with a focus on Information and Computing Science, completing his Bachelor’s degree at Xi’an University of Science and Technology, where he achieved a GPA of 2.71/4.00 from 2016 to 2020. His early years as a student laid a strong foundation for his future research in management science and engineering, particularly in data analysis. During his time at Xi’an University, he honed his skills in data processing and computation, which would later shape his research trajectory. His academic curiosity and passion for problem-solving were evident as he progressed into his Master’s studies, earning an M.Sc. in Resources and Environment with a GPA of 3.07/4.00 from 2020 to 2023. These formative years provided him with a solid background in multidisciplinary studies, which were crucial in his later exploration of multimodal data analysis.

Academic Pursuits in Management Science and Engineering 📊

Currently, Haoqiang is a Ph.D. student at Xi’an Jiaotong University, specializing in Management Science and Engineering. Since September 2023, he has been working under the guidance of Professor Shaolong Sun, with an expected completion date of December 2026. His research interests focus on multimodal big data analysis and user-generated content, reflecting a deep interest in understanding the dynamics of digital data in real-world applications. Haoqiang’s academic performance is notable, with a GPA of 3.56/4.00, illustrating his dedication to mastering the complexities of management science. His ongoing research aims to bridge the gap between big data analytics and practical business applications, positioning him as a promising scholar in his field.

Professional Endeavors and Research Contributions 💼

Haoqiang Sun’s professional journey has been marked by his roles as both a researcher and a teaching assistant. As a research assistant at Xi’an Jiaotong University, he has been contributing to significant projects funded by both the National Key R&D Program for Young Scientists and the National Nature Science Foundation. His primary responsibilities involve literature reviews, data collection, and academic writing. These experiences allow him to explore cutting-edge research in multimodal big data analysis, particularly focusing on tourism-related data. Additionally, Haoqiang leads a research project, Multi-modal Data Mining and Analysis of Tourist Attractions (2025–2026), where he is tasked with applying data analytics to understand tourist demand at Xi’an’s popular tourist sites.

Teaching and Mentorship 🎓

In addition to his research, Haoqiang is also committed to the academic development of others. He serves as a full-time teaching assistant for the course Advanced Statistical Analysis at Xi’an Jiaotong University, a role he started in September 2024. As a teaching assistant, Haoqiang provides guidance on study strategies, addresses student queries, and helps foster a deeper understanding of statistical concepts. His work in this capacity reflects his passion for knowledge sharing and his dedication to helping fellow students navigate the complexities of advanced statistical methods, demonstrating his teaching aptitude and communication skills.

Research Focus and Innovation 🔍

Haoqiang’s research focuses on the intersection of multimodal big data analysis and user-generated content. His work is particularly relevant in today’s digital age, where vast amounts of data are produced by online users, and understanding these data flows can lead to meaningful insights for businesses and policymakers alike. His work in tourism, especially in analyzing tourist demand through multimodal data, demonstrates the practical applications of his research. By integrating data from multiple sources, including social media, reviews, and online platforms, Haoqiang seeks to optimize user experiences and improve decision-making processes in various sectors.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Despite being early in his academic career, Haoqiang has already earned recognition for his academic achievements. His research contributions, particularly in the realm of data analytics and management science, have positioned him as an emerging scholar with great potential. His supervisor, Professor Shaolong Sun, has commended his work for its rigor and innovation. Haoqiang’s research has been well-received in academic circles, and his involvement in prestigious projects funded by national scientific programs speaks to the quality and relevance of his work.

Future Contributions and Legacy 🌟

Looking ahead, Haoqiang Sun is poised to make significant contributions to the fields of data analysis and management science. His current research, which applies multimodal big data techniques to tourism and user-generated content, is just the beginning of what promises to be a fruitful academic career. Haoqiang’s work has the potential to influence not only the academic community but also industries like tourism, marketing, and data science, where insights into consumer behavior and user interactions are critical. As he continues to explore new methodologies and applications in data analytics, Haoqiang aims to leave a lasting legacy of innovation, bridging the gap between theory and practice in management science.

Publication

 

  • Experimental study on mechanical damage characteristics of water-bearing tar-rich coal under microwave radiation
    Authors: P Yang, P Shan, H Xu, J Chen, Z Li, H Sun
    Year: 2024

 

  • Numerical method for predicting and evaluating the stability of section coal pillars in underground longwall mining
    Authors: P Shan, H Sun, X Lai, J Dai, J Gao, P Yang, W Li, C Li, C Yan
    Year: 2022

 

  • Experiment on accurate identification of thermal image of coal-gangue mixture under a simulated dusky and wet condition
    Authors: SUNH SHAN Pengfei, LI Chenwei, LAI Xingping
    Year: 2024

 

  • Coal-rock interface perception and accurate recognition in heading face under coal dust environment based on machine vision
    Authors: Y ZHANG, L TONG, X LAI, S CAO, B YAN, Y LIU, H SUN, Y YANG, W HE
    Year: 2024

 

  • Evaluation of real-time perception of deformation state of host rocks in coal mine roadways in dusty environment
    Authors: P Shan, C Yan, X Lai, H Sun, C Li, X Chen
    Year: 2023

 

  • Let pictures speak: hotel selection-recommendation method with cognitive image attribute-enhanced knowledge graphs
    Authors: H Sun, H Xu, J Wu, S Sun, S Wang
    Year: 2024

 

  • Beyond Visual Appeal: The Impact of Multisensory Experience of Hotel Marketing and Review Images on Sales
    Authors: H Sun, H Xu, S Sun, H Li, S Wang
    Year: 2025

 

  • A research study of lightweight state perception algorithm based on improved YOLOv5s‐Tiny for fully mechanized top‐coal caving mining
    Authors: PF Shan, T Yang, XC Wu, HQ Sun
    Year: 2024

 

  • Mechanism of short-wall block backfill water-preserved mining based on water-conducting fractures development-heavy metal ions migration
    Authors: Y ZHANG, Y LIU, X LAI, T SONG, L ZHANG, H SUN, P WAN, R ZHAN
    Year: 2023

 

Conclusion

Haoqiang Sun’s academic and professional pursuits reflect his dedication to advancing the field of management science through the innovative use of big data analysis. With a strong foundation in both technical and applied research, he is well-positioned to impact industries like tourism, marketing, and business analytics. As he continues to develop his expertise, Haoqiang’s future contributions are expected to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical applications, leaving a lasting influence on both academia and industry. His passion for research and teaching further ensures that his academic legacy will inspire future generations of scholars and professionals.

 

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.

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🎓 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.

🎉 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.

📚 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.

🏆 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.

💡 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)

 

💪 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.

 

 

 

Daša Zupančič | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Daša Zupančič | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Daša Zupančič, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Daša Zupančič is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in cell biology, urothelial pathology, and medical education. Her extensive contributions to scientific research, particularly in the field of urothelial repair and cancer transformation, have earned her recognition, including the EMBO award. She has played a crucial role in mentoring and teaching, guiding future generations of researchers and medical professionals.

Profile

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✨ Early Academic Pursuits ✨

Daša Zupančič embarked on her academic journey with an unwavering passion for cell biology and medicine. She earned her Master’s degree in 2002 from the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, where she meticulously explored cellular and molecular biological changes in the rat bladder urothelium following cyclophosphamide exposure. This formative research laid the foundation for her Ph.D., which she successfully completed in 2006, investigating the protective role of melatonin in urothelial injury and repair. Her dedication to advancing biomedical knowledge was evident from the very beginning of her scholarly career.

🎓 Professional Endeavors 🎓

Since 2006, Daša Zupančič has been an esteemed Associate Professor at the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Cell Biology. Prior to this, she gained valuable experience as a Young Researcher and Teaching Assistant from 1999 to 2006. Her extensive expertise and commitment to education have made her an integral part of the institution, where she continuously fosters scientific curiosity and excellence among students and colleagues alike.

🎡 Contributions and Research Focus 🎡

Throughout her career, Daša Zupančič has dedicated her research to understanding cellular mechanisms in urothelial biology and pathology. Her investigations into cyclophosphamide-induced urothelial injury, melatonin’s protective effects, and retinoid signaling pathways in urothelial cancer transformation have provided valuable insights into cellular repair processes. Her work extends beyond laboratory research, influencing the medical community’s approach to urothelial diseases and potential therapeutic advancements.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Her exceptional contributions to biomedical research have been recognized on multiple platforms. In 2017, she was honored with the prestigious EMBO award for her short-term scholarship project on the role of the retinoid signaling pathway in urothelial cancer transformation. This recognition underscores her significant impact on the scientific community and highlights her pioneering approach to understanding cancer pathophysiology.

👨‍🎓 Impact and Influence 👨‍🎓

A dedicated mentor, Daša Zupančič has guided numerous students towards academic excellence. Between 2014 and 2025, she has successfully mentored four master’s students and is currently supervising two more. In addition, she has overseen the research endeavors of four Ph.D. candidates, with one having successfully defended their dissertation in 2023 and another expected to graduate in 2025. Her mentorship has shaped the next generation of biomedical researchers, fostering a culture of rigorous inquiry and scientific discovery.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions 📚

Beyond her research, Daša Zupančič plays a pivotal role in academia through her extensive teaching engagements. Since 2000, she has been a cornerstone of education at the University of Ljubljana, contributing to multiple faculties, including Medicine, Biotechnical Sciences, Health Sciences, and Pharmacy. She teaches a range of graduate and doctoral courses, covering essential subjects such as Medical Cell Biology, Immunology, and Research in Medicine. Her dedication to education ensures that her knowledge and expertise continue to shape the minds of aspiring medical professionals and researchers for years to come.

Publication

  • Vitamin A‐Enriched Diet Increases Urothelial Cell Proliferation by Upregulating Itga3 and Areg After Cyclophosphamide‐Induced Injury in Mice
    Authors: Brina Dragar, Simona Kranjc Brezar, Maja Čemažar, Tanja Jesenko, Rok Romih, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Tadeja Kuret, Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2025

 

  • Selective Targeting of Lectins and Their Macropinocytosis in Urothelial Tumours: Translation from in vitro to ex vivo
    Authors: Nataša Resnik, Tanja Višnjar, Tomaž Smrkolj, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Rok Romih, Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2023

 

  • Nanodiamonds as Possible Tools for Improved Management of Bladder Cancer and Bacterial Cystitis
    Authors: Daša Zupančič, Peter Veranič
    Year: 2022

 

  • Transmission Electron Microscopy Demonstration of Reduced Endothelial Glycocalyx in Severe Preeclampsia
    Authors: Mugerli S, Zupančič D, Rok Romih, Lučovnik M
    Year: 2022

 

  • Vitamin A and Retinoids in Bladder Cancer Chemoprevention and Treatment: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence, Challenges and Future Prospects
    Authors: Larisa Tratnjek, Jera Jeruc, Rok Romih, Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2021

 

  • Immunohistochemistry as a Paramount Tool in Research of Normal Urothelium, Bladder Cancer and Bladder Pain Syndrome
    Authors: Daša Zupančič, Rok Romih
    Year: 2021

 

  • Combined Lectin- and Immuno-Histochemistry (CLIH) for Applications in Cell Biology and Cancer Diagnosis: Analysis of Human Urothelial Carcinomas
    Authors: Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2020

 

  • Vitamin A Rich Diet Diminishes Early Urothelial Carcinogenesis by Altering Retinoic Acid Signaling
    Authors: Daša Zupančič, Jelena Korać-Prlić, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Lucija Franković, Katarina Vilović, Jera Jeruc, Rok Romih, Janoš Terzić
    Year: 2020

 

  • Lectins as Possible Tools for Improved Urinary Bladder Cancer Management
    Authors: Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2019

 

  • Co-Culturing Porcine Normal Urothelial Cells, Urinary Bladder Fibroblasts and Smooth Muscle Cells for Tissue Engineering Research
    Authors: Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2018

 

🌟 Conclusion 🌟

With a career dedicated to pioneering research, impactful mentorship, and transformative education, Daša Zupančič continues to leave a lasting legacy in the scientific and academic communities. Her work not only enhances understanding of urothelial biology but also inspires innovation and discovery among young scientists. As she continues her academic and research endeavors, her influence on the field will undoubtedly grow, shaping the future of biomedical sciences.