Sayali Kulkarni | Medicine and Dentistry | Research Excellence Award

Sayali Kulkarni | Medicine and Dentistry | Research Excellence Award

Georgian National University SEU | Georgia

Ms. Sayali Kulkarni is a final-year medical student known for her determination, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to achieving her goals. With a solid foundation in medical sciences, she is passionate about continuous learning and actively seeks opportunities to explore and expand her knowledge within the healthcare field. She possesses strong communication and interpersonal skills, enabling her to connect effectively with patients and colleagues. Dedicated to delivering high-quality patient care, she aspires to make meaningful contributions to the medical profession through diligence, compassion, and a lifelong pursuit of excellence.

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Citations
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Featured Publications


The analytical study of effectiveness of role of fecal microbiota transplantation in pediatric epilepsy

– Algal Research, 2018

AI-Powered Drug Discovery – The Ethical Debate

– Bioprocessing Journal, 2026

A Retrospective Study of Disparities in Mortality Due to Diabetes Mellitus Over a 22-Year Period in the United States

– Journal of Applied Phycology, 2020

Decoding Pandemic Preparedness: Data Analysis, Response Strategies and Healthcare Realities

– Algal Research, 2015

From Disabilities to Possibilities: The Power of Neuroprosthetics

– Texas A&M University, 2018

Altynay Nurmakova | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Altynay Nurmakova | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Ms Altynay Nurmakova Science center of obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology Kazakhstan

Nurmakova Altynay Daurenkyzy, born on April 22, 2001, in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is an emerging biomedical researcher with a background in genetics and a keen interest in reproductive health. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Biomedicine at the Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov (2023–2025). Altynay is dedicated to scientific advancement and works as a specialist at the Scientific Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology. She has also contributed as a member of the external expert commission for NAAR in 2025. Fluent in Russian and proficient in English, she actively participates in scientific conferences, seminars, and certified training programs. Her research is primarily focused on molecular diagnostics and innovative biomarkers in hypertensive conditions during pregnancy. Altynay is a quick learner, highly responsible, and committed to continuous professional development. Her proactive approach and analytical mindset make her a promising figure in biomedical science.

Publication Profile

orcid

🎓 Education

Altynay Nurmakova holds a strong academic background in life sciences, starting with a Bachelor’s degree in Genetics (6B05105) from the Kazakh National University named after Al-Farabi (2019–2023), where she graduated with a GPA of 3.79 out of 4.00. She is currently enrolled in the Master’s program in Biomedicine (7M10114) at the Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov, with a GPA of 3.89 out of 4.00 (2023–2025). Her academic journey reflects a consistent pursuit of excellence and a strong foundation in biomedical concepts, laboratory techniques, and genetic research. She has also expanded her knowledge through certified online courses such as “ICH Good Clinical Practice E6” by The Global Health Network and “Fundamentals of Immunology” by Coursera. Altynay’s educational path demonstrates her commitment to developing a career rooted in innovation and evidence-based clinical science, particularly in the fields of reproductive health and molecular diagnostics.

💼 Experience

Altynay began her professional journey in 2023 as a Specialist in the Department of Science and Strategic Development at the Scientific Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology JSC in Almaty. In this role, she contributes to key national-level projects focused on improving maternal health through molecular research. Her role involves hands-on work with advanced techniques like flow cytometry, RNA isolation, and biomarker screening. In 2025, she was recognized for her expertise by being appointed as a member of the external expert commission of the Independent Agency for Accreditation and Rating (NAAR). Through these roles, Altynay has developed strong research and analytical skills and gained valuable experience in clinical research and strategic development. Her contributions have strengthened scientific understanding and policy in Kazakhstan’s maternal health services. She is also actively involved in manuscript preparation and dissemination of scientific results through conferences and publications.

🏆 Honors and Awards

While formal awards are not listed, Altynay Nurmakova’s honors are evident through her academic excellence and trusted roles in Kazakhstan’s scientific and educational communities. Her high GPAs—3.79 in her Bachelor’s and 3.89 in her Master’s program—reflect academic distinction. Being selected as a Member of the external expert commission of the Independent Agency for Accreditation and Rating (NAAR) in 2025 is a significant honor, recognizing her credibility and expertise. Furthermore, her participation in state-funded and program-targeted scientific research projects highlights the recognition of her capabilities at a national level. Altynay’s consistent involvement in scientific seminars and conferences, including international platforms, shows her respected position among emerging biomedical researchers. Her acceptance into specialized training courses such as those provided by Coursera and The Global Health Network further illustrates her merit and proactive commitment to scientific excellence and continuous learning in the field of biomedicine and genetics.

🔬 Research Focus

Altynay’s research focus lies at the intersection of genetics, molecular biology, and reproductive health. She is actively involved in two national research projects:

  1. AR19678324 (2023–2025): Study of innovative molecular markers of hypertensive conditions in pregnancy—a state-funded project aimed at early detection and prevention of complications during pregnancy.

  2. BR27308739 (2025–2026): Innovative approaches to improve the reproductive health of the female population of Kazakhstan—a program-targeted project focused on practical interventions and diagnostic advances.

Her technical proficiency includes flow cytometry, RNA isolation, and biomarker discovery. She is passionate about enhancing women’s healthcare through translational research, focusing on identifying molecular pathways that contribute to maternal morbidity. She has contributed to the preparation of publications and actively engages in academic dissemination. Her research embodies a commitment to applying scientific knowledge for societal benefit, particularly in improving outcomes in obstetrics and gynecology.

📚 Publications

📘 Abstract: “Study of innovative molecular markers of hypertensive conditions in pregnancy”
📘 Abstract: “Innovative approaches to improve the reproductive health of the female population of the Republic of Kazakhstan”
📘 Article (in preparation): “Role of cytokine profiles in preeclampsia pathogenesis among pregnant women”
📘 Article (in preparation): “Use of flow cytometry in identifying molecular markers for gestational hypertension”

Chinedu Okeke | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Chinedu Okeke | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Dr Chinedu Okeke, University of Abuja, Nigeria

Dr. Chinedu Okeke is a dedicated Medical Laboratory Scientist with over two decades of impactful contributions in haematology and medical microbiology 🧪🧫. He has advanced academic training from prestigious institutions in Nigeria and Brazil, including a specialized MSc in Haemoglobinopathies from the University of Campinas 🇧🇷. His career has been centered around laboratory diagnostics, sickle cell disease research, and public health engagement ❤️🔬. From Sure Medical Laboratory to his current role as Assistant Chief Medical Laboratory Scientist at the University of Abuja 🏥, he has combined laboratory excellence with research innovation. Dr. Okeke has presented internationally, received competitive fellowships, and actively participates in professional societies. His scholarly works have shaped understanding in sickle cell pathophysiology, genetic polymorphisms, and diagnostic tools. With a profound sense of service and a passion for discovery, Dr. Okeke stands as a committed advocate for advancing laboratory medicine across Africa 🌍📚.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Okeke’s academic journey began with an Associate Diploma in Haematology and Blood Group Serology (2000) from the Federal School of Medical Laboratory, Jos 🧫🩸. He pursued further studies at The University of Technology, Akure, earning a Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Microbiology in 2010 🧬. His academic ambition led him to complete a Master’s Degree in Medical Microbiology at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka in 2014 🔬📘. With a focus on advancing knowledge in genetic blood disorders, he earned a second MSc in Haemoglobinopathies from the University of Campinas in Brazil (2018), gaining international exposure to cutting-edge research on sickle cell anaemia 🌎💉. This unique blend of local and international education has equipped him with broad expertise in laboratory science, infectious disease diagnostics, and molecular genetics. His educational foundation is a testament to his commitment to excellence in medical laboratory research and practice 🎓🔍.

Experience

Dr. Okeke began his career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Sure Medical Laboratory, Akure (2002–2008), where he honed his skills in diagnostic haematology and clinical microbiology 🧫🧑‍🔬. He then joined the University of Abuja as a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist (2008–2012), gaining leadership responsibilities and initiating research collaborations 🏥🔬. Since 2012, he has served as Assistant Chief Medical Laboratory Scientist at the same university, contributing significantly to diagnostic service delivery, mentoring junior scientists, and overseeing specialized testing units 💡👨‍🏫. Throughout his roles, he has integrated research and clinical service, notably in sickle cell diagnostics and genetic polymorphism studies. Dr. Okeke also actively presents at international symposia and contributes to scientific publications, bridging laboratory practice with academic innovation 🌍📈. His hands-on experience and scientific insight make him a valuable asset to Nigeria’s medical laboratory science landscape and global haematology research.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Chinedu Okeke has been recognized for his academic and scientific excellence across borders 🌟📜. In 2013, he was awarded a prestigious scholarship by the Fiocruz Foundation in Bahia, Brazil—a recognition of his potential in molecular haematology and sickle cell research 🌎🔬. His poster presentations at major scientific conferences such as the Biochemical Symposium at UNIFESP (2017) and the African Society of Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) Conference (2018) further demonstrate his dedication to knowledge dissemination and international collaboration 🎤📊. As an active member of key professional bodies—including the Medical Laboratory Science Association of Nigeria (2000), Entomology Society of Nigeria (2013), Nigerian Red Cross Society (2018), and the Society for Sickle Cell Support Nigeria (2018)—he exemplifies a spirit of scientific service and humanitarian commitment ❤️🏥. His recognitions underscore his relentless pursuit of excellence in research and laboratory practice 🏆🧠.

Research Focus

Dr. Chinedu Okeke’s research centers on haemoglobinopathies, particularly sickle cell disease, exploring its clinical presentation, genetic polymorphisms, and biomarker development for improved diagnosis and patient care 🧬💉. He has conducted studies on foetal hemoglobin levels, acute painful episodes, and renal function markers in sickle cell patients, aiming to better understand disease progression and personalize treatments 💊🧪. His work extends to evaluating point-of-care diagnostic devices, such as SickleSCAN™, facilitating early and efficient screening in resource-limited settings 🧫📲. Dr. Okeke is also investigating GT-repeat polymorphisms in the Heme Oxygenase-1 gene and its impact on oxidative stress responses among patients in Brazil and Nigeria 🌍🧠. His commitment to translational science is evident in his collaborations with institutions like University of Campinas and Fiocruz Foundation. By integrating genetics, haematology, and public health, his research strives to reduce the burden of sickle cell anaemia in sub-Saharan Africa and beyond 💓🌐.

Publication Top Notes

  • Preliminary Evaluation of a point of care Testing Device (SickleSCAN™) in Screening for Sickle Cell Disease” 🧪🩸

  • Evaluation of Acute Painful Episodes with Foetal Hemoglobin Level and Other Haematological Parameters in Sickle Cell Patients in Abuja, Nigeria” 📊🧬

  • A Multi-centre Survey of Acceptability of Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease in Nigeria

  • Polymorphisms in Heme Oxygenase-1 and Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptor 1 Genes and Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate in Brazilian Sickle Cell Anaemia Patients” 🔬🧠

Michael Keese | Medicine | Best Review Article Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Michael Keese | Medicine | Best Review Article Award 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Michael Keese, TKH Mannheim, Germany

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Michael Keese is a distinguished researcher and educator at TKH Mannheim, Germany. He earned his doctorate (summa cum laude) in 1998 from the Biochemical Institute 2 at the University of Heidelberg. Following a decade of research and teaching at the University Medical Center Mannheim (UMM), he completed his habilitation. In 2013, he re-habilitated at the Medical Faculty of Goethe University Frankfurt and was appointed as an extraordinary professor in 2015. He rejoined UMM Mannheim in 2017 while continuing his teaching at the University Hospital Frankfurt. In 2023, he was appointed as a Visiting Professor at Baku State University, Azerbaijan.

Education:

Doctorate (PhD): Biochemical Institute 2, University of Heidelberg, Germany (1998) – Summa cum laude

Habilitation: University Medical Center Mannheim (UMM), Germany (after 10 years of research and teaching)

Re-habilitation: Medical Faculty, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany (2013)

Professional Profiles:

ORCID Profile

Professional Experience:

Director, Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Theresienkrankenhaus and Diako Mannheim (since April 2022)

Visiting Professor, Baku State University, Azerbaijan (since November 2023)

Editor, Journal of Clinical Medicine (JCM) (since February 2023)

Head of Vascular Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim (2017–2022)

Head of Transplant Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim (2018–2022)

Deputy Clinic Director & Chief Senior Physician, Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt (2015–2017)

Senior Physician & Head of Endovascular Surgery, Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt (2011–2015)

Deputy Head, Vascular Surgery Section, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim (2010–2011)

Senior Physician, Department of Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim (2010–2011)

Specialist in Vascular Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim (2010)

Assistant Physician & Specialist in Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim (2004–2010)

Assistant Physician, Department of Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim (1999–2003)

Postdoctoral Researcher, EMBL Heidelberg (2003–2004)

Research Interests:

Establishment of novel imaging models for monitoring receptor tyrosine kinases

Contributions to the cell biology of mesenchymal stem cells, particularly their influence on vascular muscle cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs)

siRNA and microRNA profiling of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells

Top Notable Publications:

The Differentiation and Regeneration Potential of ABCB5+ Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Review and Clinical Perspectives

Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine

Date: 2025-01-21

DOI: 10.3390/jcm14030660

Contributors: Zheng He, Vytaute Starkuviene, Michael Keese

2. MTHFR Gene C677T Polymorphism (rs1801133) and Susceptibility to Colorectal Polyps in an Azerbaijani Population

Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine

Date: 2023-12-30

DOI: 10.3390/jcm13010219

Contributors: Hazi Aslanov, Bayram Bayramov, Christoph Reissfelder, Shams Abdullayeva, Zeynab Mammadova, Fikrat Aliyev, Michael Keese, Javahir Hajibabazade, Vugar Yagublu

3. Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Protect Endothelial Cells from Hypoxic Injury by Suppressing Terminal UPR In Vivo and In Vitro

Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Date: 2023-12-06

DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417197

Contributors: Michael Keese, Jiaxing Zheng, Kaixuan Yan, Karen Bieback, Benito A. Yard, Prama Pallavi, Christoph Reissfelder, Mark Andreas Kluth, Martin Sigl, Vugar Yagublu

4. A Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis on the Effect of Different Anticoagulants on the Prophylaxis of Post-Thrombotic Syndrome after Deep Venous Thrombosis

Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine

Date: 2023-11-30

DOI: 10.3390/jcm12237450

Contributors: Jingbo Shao, Qianwen Zhou, Fukang Jin, Christoph Reissfelder, Martin Sigl, Vugar Yagublu, Michael Keese

5. Comparison of Tumour-Specific Phenotypes in Human Primary and Expandable Pancreatic Cancer Cell Lines

Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Date: 2023-08

DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713530

Contributors: Feng Guo, Kejia Kan, Felix Rückert, Wolfgang Rückert, Lin Li, Johannes Eberhard, Tobias May, Carsten Sticht, Wilhelm Gerhard Dirks, Christoph Reissfelder et al.

6. Analysis of Inflammation-Related Genes in Patients with Stanford Type A Aortic Dissection

Journal: Journal of Personalized Medicine

Date: 2023-06-13

DOI: 10.3390/jpm13060990

Contributors: Lin Li, Ziwei Zeng, Vugar Yagublu, Nuh Rahbari, Christoph Reißfelder, Michael Keese

7. Investigation of Different Methods of Intraoperative Graft Perfusion Assessment during Kidney Transplantation for the Prediction of Delayed Graft Function: A Prospective Pilot Trial

Journal: Journal of Personalized Medicine

Date: 2022-10

DOI: 10.3390/jpm12101749

Contributors: Andreas Gerken, Michael Keese, Christel Weiss, Hanna-Sophie Krücken, Katarina A. P. Pecher, Augusto Ministro, Nuh N. Rahbari, Christoph Reissfelder, Ulrich Rother, Babak Yazdani et al.

Conclusion:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Michael Keese is a strong contender for the “Best Review Article Award.” His significant contributions to advancing stem cell research, particularly in the differentiation and regenerative potential of ABCB5+ mesenchymal stem cells, align well with the objectives of this award. His work is not only well-regarded in academic circles but also demonstrates the potential to improve clinical applications, making it highly relevant to current scientific and medical challenges.

 

Giulia Passaniti | Medicine | Best Review Article Award

Dr. Giulia Passaniti | Medicine | Best Review Article Award

Dr. Giulia Passaniti, Centro Alte Specialità e Trapianti- Policlinico G. Rodolico- San Marco, Italy

Dr. Giulia Passaniti is a highly accomplished medical professional specializing in cardiovascular imaging and structural heart interventions. She is currently pursuing an Imaging Fellowship for Structural Heart Interventions at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York (2023-2024). Dr. Passaniti has also completed advanced training in Stress, Transesophageal, and Advanced Echocardiography at the Azienda Ospedaliera Università di Padova, where she earned a Second-Level Master’s Degree with Summa Cum Laude (2022-2023).

Education:

Imaging Fellowship for Structural Heart Interventions

Institution: Mount Sinai Hospital, New York

Duration: 07/01/2023 – 06/30/2024

Stress, Transesophageal, and Advanced Echocardiography

Institution: Azienda Ospedaliera Università di Padova – Cardiovascular Disease Department

Degree: Second-Level Master’s Degree

Duration: 11/01/2022 – 09/22/2023

Honors: Graduated Summa cum laude

Cardiovascular Diseases Fellowship

Institution: Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico”, Catania, Italy

Duration: 01/26/2021 – 01/26/2025

Clinical Clerkship

Institution: Policlinico “G. Rodolico”, Catania, Italy

Duration: 10/01/2018 – 01/31/2019

Medical Education (Doctor of Medicine – MD)

Institution: Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Catania

Duration: 10/06/2012 – 07/18/2018

Honors: Graduated Summa cum laude on 07/18/2018

Professional Profiles:

ORCID Profile

Google Scholar

Professional Experience:

Dr. Giulia Passaniti has gained extensive medical experience through various roles in Italy’s healthcare system. From February 2020 to December 2020, she served as a Medical Doctor at Centro Alte Specialità e Trapianti- Policlinico G. Rodolico- San Marco, where she contributed to specialized medical care and transplant-related services. Prior to this, from November 2019 to February 2020, she worked at Centro Multispecialistico Etneo, gaining experience in a multidisciplinary clinical setting. Additionally, she provided medical care at Guardia Medica of Aci Sant’Antonio from November 2019 to February 2020 and at Guardia Medica of Pedara from July 2019 to September 2019, where she was responsible for emergency medical assistance and primary healthcare services. Her diverse clinical background highlights her ability to adapt to different medical environments and provide high-quality patient care.

Top Notable Publications:

Role of advanced cardiovascular imaging in chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity
Heliyon, 2023
Contributors: MT Cannizzaro, MC Inserra, G Passaniti, A Celona, T D’Angelo, P Romeo, et al.

Pulmonary hypertension
Novel Pathogenesis and Treatments for Cardiovascular Disease, 2022
Contributors: M Mulè, G Passaniti, D Giannazzo

MR imaging of primary benign cardiac tumors in the pediatric population
Heliyon, 2023
Contributors: MC Inserra, MT Cannizzaro, G Passaniti, A Celona, A Secinaro, et al.

Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Approach to Repair Large Coaptation Gaps: The Zipping Technique
Cardiovascular Interventions, 2024
Contributors: G Passaniti, GHL Tang, R Tanner, SK Sharma, AS Kini, S Lerakis

Do we still need intra-procedural TTE during Transcatheter aortic valve replacement? A high volume, single center experience
Cardiovascular Revascularization Medicine, 2024
Contributors: YN Granot, G Passaniti, FR Prandi, SK Sharma, A Kini, S Lerakis

Echo HALT: do we really need a cardiac CT?
The International Journal of Cardiovascular Imaging, 2024
Contributors: G Passaniti, FR Prandi, S Sharma, A Kini, S Lerakis

Fundamental Roles of Intracardiac Echocardiography and Fluoroscopy in Redo Tricuspid Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair Procedure
Cardiovascular Interventions, 2024
Contributors: G Passaniti, LM Safi, F Prandi, S Ratanapo, S Lerakis, GHL Tang, et al.

IMPACT OF AORTIC VALVE CALCIFICATION SEVERITY IN PATIENTS WITH LOW-FLOW LOW-GRADIENT AORTIC STENOSIS UNDERGOING TRANSCATHETER AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT
Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 2024
Contributors: R Singh, L Chopra, D Sperling, A Dalsania, H Ueyama, FR Prandi, et al.

Imaging in a Rare Case of Neonatal Arterial Tortuosity Syndrome
Global Medical Genetics, 2023
Contributors: MC Inserra, A Di Mari, G Passaniti, MT Cannizzaro, G La Rosa, D Poli, et al.

Myocardial fibrosis in aortic stenosis: Comparison between clinical data, laboratory, echocardiography, and cardiac magnetic resonance
Journal of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine, 2023
Contributors: G Tosto, G Passaniti, FA Gibiino, W Deste, A Indelicato, T Torrisi, et al.

Conclusion:

Dr. Giulia Passaniti is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Review Article Award due to her expertise in cardiovascular imaging, extensive collaborations, and high-quality publications. Strengthening her focus on systematic reviews and increasing outreach efforts could further solidify her eligibility for this prestigious recognition.