Djeni Cherneva | Ethnobotany | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Djeni Cherneva | Ethnobotany | Research Excellence Award

Chief Assistant Professor at Medical University – Varna Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov, Bulgaria

Assist. Prof. Dr. Djeni Cherneva is a Bulgarian botanist specializing in medicinal plants, ethnobotany, and biodiversity, with a solid academic and research background in pharmaceutical botany. She earned her PhD in Botany from the Medical University of Varna in December 2017, completing a dissertation focused on the biodiversity and ethnobotanical application of medicinal plants from the North Black Sea wetlands, a region of critical ecological and therapeutic importance. Her academic journey began with a Master’s degree in Biology and Chemistry from Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski,” where she established a strong foundation in plant sciences and natural compounds. She joined the Medical University of Varna in 2011 as an Assistant in the Department of Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, where she taught Pharmaceutical Botany and contributed to strengthening practical and theoretical training for pharmacy students. Since 2018, she has served as a Chief Assistant Professor in the same department, actively expanding her research and teaching portfolio. Her scientific work encompasses the documentation, classification, and conservation of medicinal plant species, with special emphasis on traditional ethnobotanical knowledge and its relevance to modern pharmaceutical science. She has contributed substantially to understanding the therapeutic potential, ecological distribution, and sustainable use of medicinal flora, especially within wetland ecosystems. Her publications reflect multidisciplinary engagement with botany, pharmacognosy, and ecosystem dynamics, and she continues to collaborate with researchers on biodiversity protection and medicinal plant utilization. Dr. Cherneva’s scientific impact is evidenced by her citation record, with 70 citations (Google Scholar) and 61 citations (Scopus), an h-index of 6 and 5 respectively, and an i10-index of 3 and 2, underscoring the relevance of her studies in plant science, ethnobotany, and natural product research. Her contributions help bridge traditional botanical knowledge with contemporary pharmaceutical applications, supporting both scientific innovation and the preservation of biological heritage. She remains dedicated to advancing research on medicinal plants, promoting biodiversity conservation, and enriching academic excellence within pharmaceutical botany at the Medical University of Varna.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Cherneva, D., Yaneva, G., & Ivanov, D. (2017). Ethnobotanical study of the attitudes towards herbal remedies and conventional medicines among local population of the North Black Sea Coast. Scripta Scientifica Pharmaceutica, 4(1), 29–32.

Cherneva, D., Yaneva, G., & Ivanov, D. (2017). Ethnobotanical study of the impact of certain demographic indicators on the attitudes towards the use of medicinal plants among local population of the North Black Sea coast. Scripta Scientifica Pharmaceutica, 4(1), 24–28.

Cherneva, D., Yaneva, G., & Ivanov, D. (2017). Which are the most popular medicinal plants in the area of the north Black Sea coast? Varna Medical Forum, 6(1), 166–171.

Yaneva, G., Dimitrova, T., Cherneva, D., Ivanova, N., Maslarski, I., Sivkov, S., … (2018). Comparative dermatoglyphic study of the palmar ridge count in breast carcinoma patients from Northeast Bulgaria. Acta Morphologica et Anthropologica, 25(1–2), 86–92.

Yaneva, G. A., Dimitrova, T. S., Cherneva, D. P., Ivanova, N. D., Fialkovska, N. A., … (2018). Quantitative dermatoglyphic study of the finger ridge count in breast carcinoma patients from Northeastern Bulgaria. Scripta Scientifica Salutis Publicae, 4, 51–55.

Cherneva, D., Yaneva, G., & Ivanov, D. (2017). Impact of demographic characteristics of the local population of the Northern Black Sea coast on the use of medicinal plants. Годишник на Софийския Университет „Св. Климент Охридски“, Биологически науки.

Cherneva, D., Ivanov, D., & Filipova-Marinova, M. (2015). Study of the current status of traditional knowledge about herbs and their use among the population of the Northern Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Scripta Scientifica Pharmaceutica, 2(2), 31.

Cherneva, D., & Ivanov, D. (2023). Traditional knowledge of medicinal plants in relation to local customs and practices of the North Black Sea Coast population. Acta Scientifica Naturalis, 10(2).

Arriel Makembi Bunkete | Transplantation Renale | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Arriel Makembi Bunkete | Transplantation Renale | Research Excellence Award

MD at Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Guyane, France

Dr. Arriel Makembi Bunkete is a highly qualified nephrologist with advanced expertise in internal medicine, clinical nephrology, dialysis, and renal transplantation, with extensive international clinical and academic experience across mainland France, French Guyana and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He currently serves as Nephrologist and Deputy Renal Transplant Coordinator at the University Hospital Centre of French Guyana (Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni), where he oversees nephrology and transplant care, dialysis programmes, and multidisciplinary team coordination. From 2021 to 2024 he worked at Franck Joly Hospital as Nephrologist and Renal Transplant Coordinator, managing chronic dialysis and transplant pathways. Since 2024 he has also been Deputy Coordinator for scientific research, teaching and innovation at the Guyana University Hospital, strengthening nephrology research capacity. As National Representative of the European Renal Association’s Young Nephrologist Platform since 2023, he contributes to European-level nephrology collaboration and training. In addition, he lectures at the Institut Supérieur des Sciences Infirmières PPPLUS, contributing to the training of healthcare professionals in French Guyana. His clinical background includes advanced internships in nephrology and renal transplantation at Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Hôpital Foch and the AURA network in Paris, along with several years of residency in internal medicine and nephrology at the University Clinics of Kinshasa. Dr. Bunkete has completed a broad range of specialised university diplomas, including nephropathology, hypertension and cardio-renal risks, rare kidney diseases, geriatric nephrology, organ transplantation, non-invasive vascular imaging and extra-renal purification techniques, in addition to his specialist diploma in internal medicine/nephrology. He actively participates in international nephrology congresses, workshops and scientific writing seminars, presenting oral communications and posters at major events including ERA, ISN, ESOT, SFNDT, Swiss Society of Nephrology, and the Antilles-Guyane Nephrology Days. His scientific engagement includes memberships with ISN, ISGD, ESOT, ERA, ERA-YNP, SFNDT, SFT, ASN, AFRAN, SOCONEPH and Fondation Aurore. He is the winner of multiple competitive research grants, including the AIRG-France 2024 Award on APOL-1 variants and several regional clinical research calls focusing on chronic kidney disease epidemiology in French Guyana. He contributes as a reviewer for leading journals such as CJASN, CKJ, NDT and Annales Africaines de Médecine, and is active in hospital governance roles including the Medical Establishment Committee and the Users’ Commission. His academic outputs include peer-reviewed publications and conference proceedings, with 4 citations, an h-index of 1, and an i10-index of 0, reflecting his growing scientific impact in nephrology, transplantation and kidney disease epidemiology. Dr. Bunkete remains deeply committed to advancing kidney health, strengthening nephrology services in underserved regions, promoting clinical research, and disseminating medical knowledge to healthcare providers and the wider community.

Profiles: Scopus Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Mabiala, T., Muamba, K. A., Ha, V. H. T., Makeya, G., Ngwizani, R., Betukumesu, D., Sita, D. M., & Bunkete, A. M. (2025). Evaluation of the tolerability and efficacy of the main hemodialysis techniques in intensive care. Open Journal of Nephrology, 15(1), Article 1012. https://doi.org/10.4236/ojneph.2025.151012

Mutombo Muamba, J., Claudéon, J., Bunkete Makembi, A., Batcho, J., Dalvius, G., Makulo, J.-R., Kisoka, C. L., Mayamba Nlandu, Y., Sumaili, E. K., Nseka, N. M., et al. (2025). Kidney transplants before and during the COVID-19 pandemic at the University Hospital of Guadeloupe. Kidney and Dialysis, 5(4), 57. https://doi.org/10.3390/kidneydial5040057

Mutombo, J. M., Claudeon, J., Bunkete Makembi, A., Batcho, J., Dalvius, G., Makulo, J.-R., Lusunsi, C. K., Mayamba, Y. N., Kiswaya, E. S., Mangani, N. N., et al. (2025). Kidney transplants before and during the COVID-19 pandemic at the University Hospital of Guadeloupe [Preprint]. Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202510.1274.v1

Bunkete Makembi, A., Belgrine, M., Sidibe, M., Bellony, S., Davodun, T., Djiconkpode, I., & Gbaguidi, T. F. (2025). Peritoneal dialysis in an infant with severe acute kidney injury: Dialysis performed in-flight during a medical evacuation in French Guiana – A case report. Bulletin de la Dialyse à Domicile, 8(3), Article 87084. https://doi.org/10.25796/bdd.v8i3.87084

Bunkete Makembi, A., Belgrine, M., Sidibe, M., Diallo, M. M., Timem, G. N., Davodoun, T., Djiconkpode, I., & Fantcho, F. S. (2025). Glomérulonéphrites extra-membraneuses en Guyane Française: De la forme primitive aux atypies auto-immunes (à propos de 5 cas). PAMJ Clinical Medicine, 19(5), 48666. https://doi.org/10.11604/pamj-cm.2025.19.5.48666

Betukumesu Kabasele, D., Bunkete Makembi, A., Mbayabo, G., Lumbala, P., Matondo, O., Aloni, M., Kazadi, O., Mikobi, T., Mabiala, J. B., Kajingulu, F., et al. (2025). Hydroxyurea and regression of sickle cell nephropathy. Kidney360, 6(8). https://doi.org/10.34067/KID.0000000805

Bunkete Makembi, A. (2025). Home hemodialysis in French Guiana: Transforming logistical challenges into healthcare opportunities. Bulletin de la Dialyse à Domicile, 8(2), Article 87069. https://doi.org/10.25796/bdd.v8i2.87069

Bunkete Makembi, A. (2025). Artificial intelligence as the pacemaker of the future of kidney transplantation in French Guiana. Open Health, 6(1), Article 0081. https://doi.org/10.1515/ohe-2025-0081

Anna Klimovich | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Anna Klimovich | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award 

Dr. Anna Klimovich | G.B. Elyakov Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Far-Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences | Russia

Dr. Anna Klimovich is a PhD candidate in biochemistry with a decade of experience as a research fellow, specializing in the investigation of biologically active compounds derived from marine organisms of the Far Eastern and tropical seas using advanced experimental models of human pathologies in laboratory animals. She works as a research assistant in the Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Biomedicine at the Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, contributing extensively to fundamental and applied biomedicine. Her scientific portfolio includes 40 publications indexed in Web of Science and Scopus, supported by 199 citations across 162 documents and an h-index of 8, reflecting her strong research impact. She has completed seven research projects and is an inventor or co-inventor on seven patents focused on bioactive marine compounds and their therapeutic potential. Her research areas span biology, biochemistry, biomedicine, natural biologically active substances, and preclinical trials, with collaborative work involving Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. Dr. Klimovich has contributed significantly to the characterization of marine peptides and metabolites, including the sea anemone peptide HCRG21, which exhibits analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic activities and demonstrates therapeutic potential for allergic dermatitis and psoriasis. She has also studied the peptide HCIQ2c1 with anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, and the sea anemone peptides Hcr 1b-2, Hcr 1b-4, and AnmTX Sco 9a-1, which show strong anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. Her work further includes discovering the antidiabetic and antiglycemic activities of the peptide Mgf, evaluating antimicrobial and antitumor effects of phenylphascaplysine alkaloid derivatives, and identifying the ability of triterpene glycosides from sea cucumbers—Cucumarioside A0-1, Djakonovioside A—and the peptide Hct-S3 to inhibit tumor metastasis. Additionally, she contributed to demonstrating that asterripeptides A–C from marine fungi possess therapeutic activity in treating infected wounds. Her research advances marine-derived therapeutic discoveries with high relevance to pharmacology, biotechnology, and translational biomedicine.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Klimovich, A., Kvetkina, A., Deryavko, Y., Priymenko, N., Popkova, D., Bystritskaya, E., Isaeva, M., Gladkikh, I., Sintsova, O., & Leychenko, E. (2025). TRPV1 blocker, peptide HCRG21 from sea anemone Heteractis magnifica, exhibits effectiveness in psoriasis and dermatitis in in vivo models. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(21), 10644. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262110644

Klimovich, A. A., Chingizova, E. A., Pislyagin, E. A., Kotelnikov, V. N., & Shperling, I. A. (2025). Eksperimental’no-funktsional’naya otsenka ranozazhivlyayushchey aktivnosti gidrogelya na osnove karboksimetiltsellyulozy s biologicheski aktivnymi veshchestvami iz gidrobiontov Tikhogo okeana pri termicheskom ozhoge [Experimental and functional evaluation of the wound-healing activity of a carboxymethylcellulose-based hydrogel with bioactive substances from Pacific Ocean hydrobionts in a thermal burn model]. Clinical and Fundamental Medicine, 2, 5–12. https://doi.org/10.24866/3033-5485/2025-2/5-12

Zhidkov, M. E., Smirnova, P. A., Grammatikova, N. E., Isakova, E. B., Shchekotikhin, A. E., Styshova, O. N., Klimovich, A. A., & Popov, A. M. (2025). Comparative evaluation of the antibacterial and antitumor activities of marine alkaloid 3,10-dibromofascaplysin. Marine Drugs, 23(2), 68. https://doi.org/10.3390/md23020068

Klimovich, A. A., Kvetkina, A. N., Deryavko, Y. V., Priymenko, N. A., & Leychenko, E. V. (2024). Peptide TRPV1 channel blocker, HCRG21, effectively suppresses inflammation in a calcipotriol-induced allergic dermatitis model. Biochemistry (Moscow), Supplement Series B: Biomedical Chemistry, 18, (Issue no. pending). https://doi.org/10.1134/S1990750824601127

Pavlenko, A. P., Klimovich, A. A., Yurchenko, E. A., Kvetkina, A. N., & Leychenko, E. V. (2024). Sea anemone Heteractis magnifica toxin Hct-S3 suppresses the migration of solid Ehrlich adenocarcinoma cells inoculated into BALB/C mice. Biochemistry (Moscow), Supplement Series B: Biomedical Chemistry, 18, (Issue no. pending). https://doi.org/10.1134/S1990750824601206

Klimovich, A. A., Styshova, O. N., Popov, A. M., Moskvina, T. V., Tsybulsky, A. V., Derunov, D. A., & Stonik, V. A. (2020). Experimental study of therapeutic efficacy of the topical preparation “Kourochitin” in skin allergy. Letters in Drug Design & Discovery, 17(10), 1234–1241.

Magdalena Sobieska | Physiotherapy | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Magdalena Sobieska | Physiotherapy | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Magdalena Sobieska | Poznań University of Medical Sciences | Poland

Dr. Magdalena Sobieska is a distinguished rehabilitation and physiotherapy specialist at the Poznań University of Medical Sciences, widely recognized for her deep expertise in immunology, clinical diagnostics, and physical medicine. She has held influential academic and leadership roles that have significantly strengthened physiotherapy education, clinical practice, and international program development within her institution. A prolific and impactful researcher, Dr. Sobieska has contributed substantially to multiple domains intersecting immunology and rehabilitation. Her scientific work encompasses the study of acute phase proteins as sensitive indicators of immune activation following physical exercise, stress, and physiotherapeutic interventions. She has also advanced understanding of eosinophil activation mechanisms and the diagnostic utility of cytokines and acute phase proteins in traumatic injuries, pediatric food allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, and melanoma. Her earlier investigations examined immune system dysfunctions in mental disorders, inflammation-related biomarkers in metabolic diseases, and the application of immunodiagnostic monitoring in veterinary medicine. Furthermore, her research has enriched knowledge of rheumatic diseases through the analysis of inflammatory markers and glycosylation profiles. International training at leading immunology and rheumatology centers strengthened her expertise in how physiotherapy modulates inflammation and acute phase responses. Dr. Sobieska maintains an extensive teaching portfolio, encompassing immunology, biochemistry, sport immunology, spa medicine, diagnostic methods in rheumatology, and laboratory medicine for physiotherapy students. Her commitment to education is reflected in her long-standing mentorship of graduate students, with numerous bachelor’s and master’s theses completed under her supervision. Her scholarly influence is well documented, with 2,189 citations across 1,869 documents, a publication record of 117 scientific works, and an h-index of 20, underscoring the sustained impact of her research within the scientific community. Fluent in multiple European languages, she brings multicultural and multilingual strength to collaboration and academic engagement. Her comprehensive background and broad expertise position her as a respected educator, researcher, and mentor in the medical and rehabilitation sciences.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Gajewska, E., Surowińska, J., Michalak, M., Gajewski, J., Chałupka, A., Naczk, M., Naczk, A., & Sobieska, M. (2025). The third month’s development predicts the side and oblique sit and walking. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 14, Article 38492. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14238492

Pawlak-Andryszczyk, Ż., Andryszczyk, M., & Sobieska, M. (2025). Movements induced by optic flow in relation to HINE. Scientific Reports, 15, Article 20726. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-20726-y

Bieniaszewska, A., Sobieska, M., & Gajewska, E. (2024). Functional and structural changes in patients with spinal muscular atrophy treated in Poland during 12-month follow-up: A prospective cohort study. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 13(14), 4232. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13144232

Bieniaszewska, A., Sobieska, M., Steinborn, B., & Gajewska, E. (2023). Examination of upper limb function and the relationship with gross motor functional and structural parameters in patients with spinal muscular atrophy. Biomedicines, 11(4), 1005. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11041005

De Mezer, M., Rogaliński, J., Przewoźny, S., Chojnicki, M., Niepolski, L., Sobieska, M., & Przystańska, A. (2023). SERPINA3: Stimulator or inhibitor of pathological changes. Biomedicines, 11(1), 156. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11010156

Gabriella Teresa Capolupo | Medicine and Dentistry | Excellence in Research Award

Dr. Gabriella Teresa Capolupo | Medicine and Dentistry | Excellence in Research Award

Dr. Gabriella Teresa Capolupo | Università campus bio medico di Roma | Italy

Gabriella Teresa Capolupo is an accomplished surgeon, researcher, and academic with extensive expertise in general, oncological, and digestive surgery. She has built a distinguished career that integrates advanced clinical practice with dedicated teaching and scientific contributions. As a university lecturer and instructor, she actively contributes to academic programs in General Surgery, Urology, Digestive Surgery, Endocrinology and Metabolic Surgery, Emergency Surgery, and Head and Neck Surgery. Her educational roles include formal teaching, clinical tutoring, multidisciplinary course integration, and participation in advanced training initiatives such as postgraduate master programs and summer schools. She also serves as coordinator of the tutoring activities for the School of Specialization in General Surgery, ensuring high-quality mentorship for surgical trainees and supporting their academic and clinical progression. Her academic profile is further strengthened by appointments to evaluation bodies, including doctoral examination committees in translational medicine and oncology. Clinically, Dr. Capolupo’s work is rooted in continuous service at a major university hospital, where she has operated within colorectal, general, and geriatric surgery units. She performs a broad range of surgical procedures with recognized expertise in abdominal oncological surgery using both laparotomic and laparoscopic approaches. Her responsibilities include acting as first surgeon, surgical assistant, and tutor in the operating room, as well as leading emergency surgical teams. She has held roles with functional leadership responsibilities across both permanent and fixed-term appointments. Her research activity is substantial and internationally recognized, with 2,050 citations, 105 scientific documents, and an h-index of 19, reflecting her influence and scholarly impact in the field of surgical sciences. Dr. Capolupo’s professional trajectory demonstrates a strong and consistent commitment to clinical excellence, scientific advancement, and the training of future medical professionals.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Schiavone, V., Carannante, F., Melone, G., Miacci, V., Costa, G., Taffon, C., Caricato, M., Capolupo, G. T., & Mascianà, G. (2025). Tailoring the management of colonic lipomas: A 10-year experience of surgical and endoscopic resection. Journal of Personalized Medicine, 15(11), 544. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15110544

Schiavone, V., Capolupo, G. T., Mascianà, G., Carannante, F., Costa, G., Miacci, V., & Caricato, M. (2025). Non-operative management (NOM) in rectal cancer: Current evidence and future directions. Encyclopedia, 5(4), 165. https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia5040165

Carannante, F., Capolupo, G. T., Barberio, M., Altamura, A., Miacci, V., Scopigno, M. Z., Circhetta, E., Costa, G., Caricato, M., & Viola, M. G. (2024). Evaluation of short-term effects on colorectal surgery elective patients after implementing a patient blood management program: A multicenter retrospective analysis. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 13(15), 4447. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13154447

Feola, A., Minotti, C., Marchetti, D., Caricato, M., Capolupo, G. T., Marsella, L. T., & La Monaca, G. (2021). A five-year survey for plastic surgery malpractice claims in Rome, Italy. Medicina, 57(6), 571. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina57060571

Mascianà, G., Capolupo, G. T., Carannante, F., & Caricato, M. (2019). An omental mass. Any idea? International Journal of Surgery Case Reports, 57, 161–164. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijscr.2019.02.019

Catarci, M., Ruffo, G., Borghi, F., Patriti, A., Delrio, P., Scatizzi, M., Mancini, S., Garulli, G., Carrara, A., Pirozzi, F., et al. (2019). Colorectal surgery in Italy: A snapshot from the iCral study group. Updates in Surgery, 71, 515–524. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13304-018-00612-1

Carannante, F., Mascianà, G., Lauricella, S., Caricato, M., & Capolupo, G. T. (2019). Correction to: Skin bridge loop stoma: Outcome in 45 patients in comparison with stoma made on a plastic rod. International Journal of Colorectal Disease, 34(12), 2195–2197. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00384-019-03451-7

Milica Milovanovic | Transport Study Program | Excellence in Research Award 

Ms. Milica Milovanovic | Transport Study Program | Excellence in Research Award 

Ms. Milica Milovanovi | Faculty of Transport and Traffic Engineering, University of Belgrade | Serbia

Ms. Milica Milovanovic, is a young aviation safety researcher whose academic excellence has marked every stage of her career. After completing primary school in 2013 and secondary school in 2017 as a “Vuk Karadžić” award recipient, she enrolled at the Faculty of Transport and Traffic Engineering in 2017, earning her Bachelor’s degree in 2021 and her Master’s degree in 2022. She has been pursuing her PhD studies since 2022, successfully passing all examinations with a perfect GPA of 10.00 and specializing in air transport, aviation safety, risk analysis, and hybrid MCDM methodologies. Milovanović is the author of 7 scientific papers, including 3 high-ranking international journal publications, addressing critical issues such as drone risk in city logistics, the value of statistical life in air and road transport, and multi-criteria decision-making models for safety measures in aircraft operations. Her national journal contributions include analyses of lightning-strike impacts on flight safety and economic assessments of safety-related investments, while her international conference papers examine UAV collision impacts and hybrid decision-making for aviation safety. Her work has garnered growing recognition, with developing citation metrics, an expanding citation count, and an emerging h-index, reflecting increasing academic influence in the field of aviation safety. Through rigorous analyses of aircraft accidents, risk factors, and safety management systems, Milovanović contributes to enhancing the safety performance of air transport systems. Her use of modern methodologies, including Grey Delphi, AHP, ADAM, and hybrid MCDM models, strengthens safety decision-making in aircraft operations. By participating in international scientific conferences, collaborating with leading researchers, and publishing in indexed journals, she advances scientific understanding of aviation safety and risk management. Her research supports evidence-based policymaking, improved operational safety, and the development of resilient air transport systems, demonstrating her growing impact as a researcher dedicated to the advancement of aviation safety science.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Milovanović, M., Vujačić Petrović, J., Čokorilo, O., Vasov, L., Mirosavljević, P., Stojiljković, B., & Marina, M. (2025). Analysis of the value of statistical life in traffic accidents based on investments evaluation. Tehnika.

Tadić, S., Milovanović, M., Krstić, M., & Čokorilo, O. (2025). Selection of safety measures in aircraft operations: A hybrid Grey Delphi–AHP–ADAM MCDM model. Eng, 6(11), 295.

Milovanović, M., Čokorilo, O., Ivković, I., Stojiljković, B., & Vasov, L. (2024). The value of statistical life in air and road transport. Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology.

Marina, M., Čokorilo, O., Mirosavljević, P., Vasov, L., Stojiljković, B., & Milovanović, M. (2024). Analysis of the impact of UAV collision on a commercial aircraft. 2024 6th International Conference on Control Systems, Mathematical Modeling, Automation and Energy Efficiency (SUMMA). IEEE.

Tadić, S., Krstić, M., Veljović, M., Čokorilo, O., & Milovanović, M. (2024). Risk analysis of the use of drones in city logistics. Mathematics, 12(8), 1250.

Milovanovic, M., Čokorilo, O., & Čokorilo, S. (2022). Analysis of the impact of lightning strikes on flight safety. International Journal for Traffic and Transport Engineering, 12(3), Article 05.

Christos Bouras | Computer Science | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Christos Bouras | Computer Science | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Christos Bouras | University of Patras | Greece

Professor Christos Bouras is a distinguished academic leader and renowned computer engineering expert, currently serving as Professor in the Department of Computer Engineering and Informatics and Rector of the University of Patras, Greece. He holds a Diploma and a PhD in Computer Engineering and Informatics from the University of Patras. Over the course of his career, he has made substantial contributions to advanced networking technologies, digital communications, and distributed systems while leading major academic, administrative, and international initiatives. His research expertise spans and Beyond Networks, performance analysis of networking and computer systems, mobile and wireless communications, telematics, QoS and pricing mechanisms, e-learning technologies, and networked virtual environments. As an active member of IEEE and ACM, Professor Bouras has built a global reputation for innovative contributions and collaborative research. He has also held several prestigious roles, including Honorary Professor at the College of Information Engineering, Sichuan Agricultural University, China, and President of the University of Patras Property Utilization & Management Company. His long-standing academic leadership is matched by a major international presence in scholarly events. Professor Bouras has participated extensively in international conference committees for more than three decades, contributing to global research dialogue in computing, networking, and educational technologies. His committee roles span top-tier conferences such as ACM STOC, ICALP, IEEE ICALT, ICL, ICWN, ICOMP, GRID Computing, and numerous specialized workshops across Europe, Asia, and North America. His involvement includes organizing committees, program committees, keynote speaking, and advisory roles in areas such as distributed algorithms, multimedia systems, web-based learning, virtual environments, mobile technologies, simulation and modeling, and entertainment computing. Widely respected for his research excellence, international collaboration, and academic leadership, Professor Bouras continues to advance global innovation in computer networks, digital systems, and technology-enhanced learning.

Profiles: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Jurgelionis, A., Fechteler, P., Eisert, P., Bellotti, F., David, H., Laulajainen, J. P., Bouras, C., … (2009). Platform for distributed 3D gaming. International Journal of Computer Games Technology, 2009(1), Article 231863.

Bouras, C., Kollia, A., & Papazois, A. (2017). SDN & NFV in 5G: Advancements and challenges. In 2017 20th Conference on Innovations in Clouds, Internet and Networks (ICIN) (pp. xx–xx). IEEE.

Bouras, C., & Tsogkas, V. (2012). A clustering technique for news articles using WordNet. Knowledge-Based Systems, 36, 115–128.

Bouras, C., & Tsiatsos, T. (2006). Educational virtual environments: Design rationale and architecture. Multimedia Tools and Applications, 29(2), 153–173.

Bouras, C., Philopoulos, A., & Tsiatsos, T. (2001). e-Learning through distributed virtual environments. Journal of Network and Computer Applications, 24(3), 175–199.

Bouras, C., Ntarzanos, P., & Papazois, A. (2016). Cost modeling for SDN/NFV based mobile 5G networks. In 2016 8th International Congress on Ultra Modern Telecommunications and Control Systems and Workshops (ICUMT) (pp. xx–xx). IEEE.

Bouras, C., Konidaris, A., & Kostoulas, D. (2004). Predictive prefetching on the web and its potential impact in the wide area. World Wide Web, 7(2), 143–179.

Renata Marks-Bielska | Bioenergy | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Renata Marks-Bielska | Bioenergy | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Renata Marks-Bielska | Uniwersytet Warminsko-Mazurski w Olsztynie | Poland

Prof. Dr. Renata Marks-Bielska is a Full Professor at the Faculty of Economic Science, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland, where she has served since January 2023, following her tenure as Professor from 2011 to 2023 and Associate Professor from 2003 to 2011, after beginning her academic path as a PhD student in 1999. Her scientific work spans agricultural economics, land management, policy analysis, sustainability transitions, and rural development, with a strong focus on agricultural real estate markets, the Common Agricultural Policy, and environmental and climate-related transformations. She has served as Head of a national research project examining conditions of trade in agricultural real estate in relation to the Agricultural Property Resource of the State Treasury (2020), and as contractor in multiple international and national projects including the UpWaste modular cascade system for sustainable upcycling of agricultural residues under the ERA-NET FACCE SURPLUS program (2022–2023), a study on diagnosis and development of farms in Warmia and Mazury in the context of the EU Green Deal (2023), and the Horizon-Europe WAMA project focused on transformative climate change adaptation and resilience building in north-eastern Poland (2024–2026). Her research has contributed to evidence-based policy design supporting agricultural sustainability, climate resilience, farm development strategies, and efficient land-use governance. Prof. Marks-Bielska has been recognized with multiple awards, including the prestigious Scholarship of the Minister of National Education for outstanding scientific achievements (1999) and numerous Rector’s Awards from 2003 to 2023 for excellence in research, teaching, and organizational leadership, as well as a Statuette from the Mayor of Kurzętnik for scientific contributions supporting business. Her scholarly impact includes 38 publications, 606 citations across 557 documents, and an h-index of 11, reflecting her long-standing contribution to agricultural economics and regional development research. Through decades of academic leadership, rigorous scholarship, and international collaboration, she continues to shape scientific dialogue on sustainable agriculture, resource management, and rural policy at national and European levels.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar | Staff Page

Featured Publications

Marks-Bielska, R., Bielski, S., Kurowska, K., & Zielińska-Chmielewska, A. (2025). First-generation biofuels vs. energy security: An overview of biodiesel and bioethanol. Energies, 18(22), 6055.

Marks-Bielska, R., & Koshkalda, I. (2025). Land and its rents in the process of land management: An overview of Poland and Ukraine as examples. Land, 14(11), 2177.

Kryszk, H., Kurowska, K., & Marks-Bielska, R. (2024). The importance of measures undertaken to improve the quality of life in the problem areas: A case study in Warmia and Mazury region in Poland. Sustainability, 16(16), 6786.

Novikova, A., Zemaitiene, R., Marks-Bielska, R., & Bielski, S. (2024). Assessment of the environmental public goods of the organic farming system: A Lithuanian case study. Agriculture, 14(3), 362.

Kryszk, H., Kurowska, K., Marks-Bielska, R., Bielski, S., & Eźlakowski, B. (2023). Barriers and prospects for the development of renewable energy sources in Poland during the energy crisis. Energies, 16(4), 1724.

Rudnicki, R., Biczkowski, M., Wiśniewski, Ł., Wiśniewski, P., Bielski, S., & Marks-Bielska, R. (2023). Towards green agriculture and sustainable development: Pro-environmental activity of farms under the Common Agricultural Policy. Energies, 16(4), 1770.

Florin Mitu | Cardiology | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Florin Mitu | Cardiology | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Florin Mitu | University of Medicine and Pharmacy | Romania

Mr. Florin Mitu is a distinguished university professor at the VIth Medical Clinic of “Gr. T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, where he has served since 2014 as head of discipline, coordinator of teaching activities in medical semiology, and course holder for third-year general medicine as well as coordinator of optional courses in preventive cardiology and cardiovascular rehabilitation for years III–V. He supervises student groups, diploma theses, residency courses, and postgraduate programs, contributing extensively to medical education. Since 2014, he has been accredited to supervise doctoral theses, actively guiding research in medicine and supporting national academic development. In parallel, he is a specialist physician in physical medicine, rehabilitation, and balneophysiotherapy at the Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, Cardiovascular Recovery Clinic in Iași, where he carries out intensive clinical activity. His leadership roles include tenure as Head of the VIth Medical Clinic and Head of the Cardiovascular Recovery Section, overseeing medical, administrative, and research activities. Between 2011 and 2014, he served as Director of the Medical Department I and member of the Faculty Council, contributing to academic governance, and between 2008–2010, 2016–2019, and 2020–2023, he was an active member of the University Senate. Previously, he was General Director of the Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital (2002–2004), managing its medical and administrative functions. His academic career spans decades, including roles as associate professor (2003–2014), lecturer (1999–2003), and teaching assistant (1991–1999), with continuous responsibilities in teaching semiology, supervising students, and instructing residents. His early international training included professional medical internships in cardiac rehabilitation in Switzerland (University of Berne) and Belgium (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège). He began his career as a general practitioner and medical intern in Iași county hospitals. His educational background includes a Master’s degree in Health Services Management from “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University, focusing on organizational and financial management in healthcare. He has served as a member of habilitation and doctoral committees from 2014 to 2024 and continues to contribute to national specialty commissions in internal medicine and cardiology. His scientific contribution is substantial, with 170 published documents, 921 citations indexed across 858 citing documents, and an h-index of 14, reflecting his long-term impact in medical education, internal medicine, cardiovascular recovery, and clinical research. Through sustained academic, clinical, managerial, and research activity, he has established a leading role in Romanian medical science and mentorship.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Dorobantu, M., Tautu, O. F., Dimulescu, D., Sinescu, C., Gusbeth-Tatomir, P., et al. (2018). Perspectives on hypertension’s prevalence, treatment and control in a high cardiovascular risk East European country: Data from the SEPHAR III survey. Journal of Hypertension, 36(3), 690–700.

Dorobantu, M., Darabont, R., Ghiorghe, S., Arsenescu-Georgescu, C., et al. (2014). Hypertension prevalence and control in Romania at a seven-year interval: Comparison of SEPHAR I and II surveys. Journal of Hypertension, 32(1), 39–47.

Cojocariu, S. A., Maștaleru, A., Sascău, R. A., Stătescu, C., Mitu, F., et al. (2021). Neuropsychiatric consequences of lipophilic beta-blockers. Medicina, 57(2), 155.

Iurciuc, S., Cimpean, A. M., Mitu, F., Heredea, R., & Iurciuc, M. (2017). Vascular aging and subclinical atherosclerosis: Why such a “never ending” and challenging story in cardiology? Clinical Interventions in Aging, 1339–1345.

Marcu, D. T. M., Adam, C. A., Mitu, F., Cumpat, C., Aursulesei Onofrei, V., et al. (2023). Cardiovascular involvement in tuberculosis: From pathophysiology to diagnosis and complications A narrative review. Diagnostics, 13(3), 432.

Adam, C. A., Anghel, R., Marcu, D. T. M., Mitu, O., Roca, M., & Mitu, F. (2022). Impact of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on arterial stiffness and vascular aging What do we know so far? (A narrative review). Life, 12(6), 803.

Moustapha Lawani | Agricultural Economics | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Moustapha Lawani | Agricultural Economics | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Moustapha Lawani | University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC) | Benin

Dr. Moustapha Lawani is a climate change economics researcher completing his Ph.D. in Climate Change Economics under the prestigious WASCAL program at the University of Cheikh Anta Diop, Senegal (2021–2025). He holds a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics and Operational Research from the Institut of Mathematics and Physical Sciences (IMSP), University of Abomey-Calavi (2016–2018), a Research Master’s degree in Applied Economics from the Faculty of Economics and Management (FASEG), University of Abomey-Calavi (2013–2015), and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the same university (2010–2011). His research experience includes major fieldwork activities such as questionnaire design, data digitization, enumerator recruitment, data mining, and advanced econometric analysis for his ongoing doctoral research. From 2018 to 2020, he worked as a Research Assistant, conducting literature reviews, performing data analysis, and co-authoring research outputs. He also contributed to the Evaluation of Agricultural Policies in Benin (EPAB) project, designing surveys and conducting extensive interviews. Dr. Lawani has significant teaching and mentoring experience, having guided over ten undergraduate students in data collection, econometrics, and the interpretation and presentation of research results. Between 2014 and 2017, he served as a Teaching Assistant in Applied Economics and Mathematics at the University of Abomey-Calavi and several private universities, preparing lectures, leading classes in macroeconomics, microeconomics, statistics, econometrics, operational research, and optimization software, as well as developing and grading assessments. He has participated in several academic webinars and workshops, including programs on Africa’s gas future, climate finance, climate diplomacy, and resilience index measurement organized in collaboration with the African Climate Foundation and the FAO. Dr. Lawani has published and contributed to multiple academic works, including “Determinants de la mobilité de la main-d’œuvre dans les institutions de microfinance: Evidences au Bénin” (2021), the article “Enhancing climate-smart agriculture: stakeholder contributions and cooperation in establishing a policy environment in developing countries” published in Climate Policy (2025), and ongoing or under-review papers on illicit financial flows in Africa and synergies and trade-offs in climate-smart agriculture. His publication portfolio includes 4 research outputs, with 0 citations recorded so far and an h-index of 0, reflecting an emerging researcher actively contributing to climate policy, agriculture, and development economics. His academic journey demonstrates a strong commitment to rigorous research, interdisciplinary analysis, and advancing climate-smart development policies in Africa.

Profiles: Scopus Orcid 

Featured Publications

Lawani, M., Lokonon, B. O. K., & Kane, A. (2025). Enhancing climate-smart agriculture: Stakeholder contributions and cooperation in establishing a policy environment in developing countries. Climate Policy. https://doi.org/10.1080/14693062.2025.2543020

Lawani, M., Avoce Viagannou, F. I., & Acclassato Houensou, D. (2021). Déterminants de la mobilité de la main-d’œuvre dans les institutions de microfinance: Evidences au Bénin. In La microfinance contemporaine: Les frontières de la microfinance (Book chapter).