Hernando Vargas Uricoechea | Thyroid autoimmunity | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Hernando Vargas Uricoechea | Thyroid autoimmunity | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Hernando Vargas Uricoechea | Thyroid autoimmunity | Distinguished Scientist Award

University of Cauca, Colombia

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Born on October 11, 1974, Dr. Hernando Vargas-Uricoechea began his academic journey in medicine at the Universidad Libre de Colombia, where he earned his degree as a Doctor and Surgeon in 1996. Driven by a passion for internal medicine, he further specialized in Internal Medicine in 2001 at the Universidad del Cauca. His pursuit of advanced knowledge led him to complete a specialization in Endocrinology at the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá in 2013. Committed to strengthening his research acumen, he earned a Master's degree in Epidemiology from Universidad del Valle in 2014, and later pursued PhD studies in Biomedical Sciences (2018) and Cognitive Neuroscience (2023).

👨‍⚕️ Professional Endeavors

Dr. Vargas-Uricoechea has cultivated a prolific clinical and academic career over two decades. He began his clinical work at Hospital Universitario San José in Popayán from 2004 to 2012, contributing significantly to internal medicine and endocrinology services. He has been a longstanding figure at Universidad del Cauca as an Associate Professor since 2003, shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals. His clinical acumen is also reflected in his roles at CLÍNICA PALMARES (since 2008), OSTEOSALUD IPS (since 2018), and previously at REHABILITAR LTDA (2008–2013).

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Vargas-Uricoechea is recognized for his diverse contributions in clinical medicine, internal medicine, endocrinology, and applied cognitive neuroscience. His work bridges basic science and clinical application, with a strong emphasis on epidemiological research, metabolic disorders, and neurocognitive processes. His commitment to research excellence earned him recognition as a Senior Researcher by Colciencias in 2022, along with the designation as an Evaluator Pair, a prestigious role in Colombia’s academic evaluation system.

🌎 Impact and Influence

With a well-rounded profile in clinical practice, academia, and research, Dr. Vargas-Uricoechea has contributed substantially to medical knowledge and practice in Colombia and Latin America. His insights into metabolic diseases and endocrinology have shaped clinical guidelines and informed public health strategies. Through university teaching and mentoring, he has had a lasting impact on the clinical reasoning and scientific literacy of hundreds of medical students and young researchers.

📚 Academic Citations & Scholarly Recognition

While exact citation metrics are not listed, Dr. Vargas-Uricoechea’s academic influence is evident through his Senior Researcher status, extensive academic affiliations, and contributions to scholarly activities. His involvement in doctoral-level research in neuroscience and biomedical sciences further demonstrates his continued engagement with high-impact scientific inquiry.

🛠️ Technical and Clinical Skills

Dr. Vargas-Uricoechea’s technical repertoire includes proficiency in epidemiological modeling, clinical diagnostics, and interdisciplinary patient management in internal medicine and endocrinology. His knowledge spans clinical data analysis, research methodology, and neurocognitive assessment, bolstering his role as both a clinician and a scientist.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Academic Service

As a dedicated Associate Professor at Universidad del Cauca for over 20 years, Dr. Vargas-Uricoechea has played a crucial role in curriculum development, clinical mentorship, and academic leadership. He is involved in supervising undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, fostering an environment of academic rigor and innovation. His participation in Colciencias’ evaluator panel highlights his trusted judgment in academic review and research appraisal.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a strong foundation in clinical practice and academic research, Dr. Vargas-Uricoechea is well-positioned to continue influencing public health policy, medical education, and neuroscientific research in Colombia and beyond. His ongoing PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience marks a forward-thinking pivot into exploring the intersection of brain function, behavior, and endocrinology, likely leading to transformative insights in neuroendocrine health.

📚 Selected Publications

Publication: Iodine Deficiency Disorders
Authors: Vargas-Uricoechea Hernando, Bonelo-Perdomo Anilza, Sierra-Torres Carlos Hernán
Journal: Journal of Thyroid Disorders and Therapy
Year: 2015

Publication: Trastornos asociados a la deficiencia de yodo. Vigilancia permanente es deficitaria en zonas vulnerables
Authors: Vargas-Uricoechea H, Sierra-Torres CH, Holguín-Betancourt CM, Cristancho-Torres L
Journal: MEDICINA (Bogotá)
Year: 2012

Publication: Role of Thyroid Hormones in Different Aspects of Cardiovascular System
Authors: Vargas-Uricoechea H, Morales E
Journal: Endocrinology & Metabolic Syndrome
Year: 2015

Publication: Ectopic thyroid tissue in the adrenal gland: a report of two cases with pathogenetic implications
Authors: Romero-Rojas A, Bella-Cueto MR, Meza-Cabrera IA, Cabezuelo-Hernández A, García-Rojo D, Vargas-Uricoechea H, Cameselle-Teijeiro J
Journal: Thyroid
Year: 2013

Publication: Enfermedad de Graves-Basedow, Fisiopatología y diagnóstico
Authors: Vargas-Uricoechea H, Sierra-Torres CH, Meza-Cabrera IA
Journal: Medicina (Bogotá)
Year: 2013

 

 

 

Farrah Liu | Lymphatics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Farrah Liu | Lymphatics | Best Researcher Award

Stanford University , United States

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Farrah C. Liu began her academic journey with distinction, graduating as the Valedictorian of Montville Township High School among a class of approximately 350 students. Her early promise was recognized through accolades such as the National Merit Scholarship Award (2012). She continued to excel academically at The College of New Jersey, where she was enrolled in a prestigious 7-year BS/MD program in partnership with Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. During this period, Farrah was honored with Phi Beta Kappa membership and consistently made the Dean’s List, underscoring her intellectual rigor. She broadened her academic horizons with a study abroad program at the Autonomous University of Barcelona in Spring 2015, gaining international perspective and enriching her academic versatility.

🩺 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Liu’s medical training commenced at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, where she earned her MD in 2019. Her medical education was marked by scholarly excellence, earning her recognition such as the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society induction and multiple merit-based scholarships. She began her postgraduate clinical training as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Resident at Stanford University School of Medicine in 2019. Her residency, which spans from 2019 to 2025, places her at the forefront of one of the most competitive and technically demanding specialties in medicine. Dr. Liu’s training is backed by active California medical licensure and DEA certification.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Farrah C. Liu’s contributions to academic medicine began even before her residency. As a Research Fellow at Columbia University Medical Center in 2015, she worked under the mentorship of Dr. Kenneth P. Olive, Ph.D., at the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research interests have remained robust, evidenced by multiple awards recognizing her scientific contributions. These include the Best Paper Award at the 2024 Mount Sinai DIEPDive, and the Stanford Plastic Surgery Thuss Research Award. Her scholarly work has also been featured on the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal Club Podcast in 2021, an acknowledgment of the clinical relevance and quality of her research.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Farrah’s growing influence in the field of plastic surgery is evident through her numerous leadership and advocacy recognitions. She was named an ASPS Advocacy Summit Future Leader Scholar in 2023 and served as a Stanford Troxel Fellow and a PlastyPAC Leader from 2022 to 2023. She also excelled in national forums, earning the Top Individual Score in the ASPS Residents Bowl (2023). These achievements reflect her ability to synthesize clinical acumen with advocacy and innovation, actively shaping the future of her specialty.

📚 Academic Cites and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Liu has received honors for both research and leadership. She is a recipient of the Alpha Omega Alpha Research Recognition Award (2019), highlighting the academic value of her contributions. Her research poster earned Best Research Poster at the New Jersey Society of Plastic Surgeons Meeting (2018), and her undergraduate and medical studies were supported by multiple scholarships, including the Sylvia and David Schwab Memorial Endowed Scholarship and the Joseph and Marguerite DiSepio Scholarship. Her memberships in honor societies such as Alpha Epsilon Lambda and Phi Beta Kappa further confirm her scholarly achievements.

💻 Technical Skills

Dr. Liu’s work in high-level surgical and academic environments has equipped her with advanced technical and clinical skills, particularly in plastic and reconstructive surgical techniques. Although not explicitly listed, her success in competitive surgical environments and featured podcast articles suggest proficiency in medical writing, surgical planning, data analysis, and potentially research tools such as statistical software, imaging platforms, and academic databases.

👩‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship Experience

While formal teaching roles are not explicitly listed, Farrah's leadership roles—such as Vice President of Interprofessional Communications in Alpha Epsilon Lambda and her repeated participation in resident summits—suggest active involvement in mentorship, education, and peer training. Her participation in Leadership Education in Advancing Diversity (LEAD) Scholar Program (2022-2023) further supports her role in fostering inclusive learning environments and training the next generation of healthcare professionals.

🧬 Legacy and Future Contributions

Farrah C. Liu’s trajectory reflects a deep commitment to clinical excellence, academic scholarship, and medical leadership. Her work in plastic and reconstructive surgery is likely to influence both clinical practice and future research innovations. With continued dedication, she is poised to become a transformative leader—especially in merging surgical innovation with diversity-focused leadership and patient advocacy. Her legacy will likely span multiple domains: groundbreaking surgical techniques, impactful mentorship, and pioneering research that elevates patient care outcomes.

📚 Selected Publications

Title: Facial fractures as a result of falls in the elderly: concomitant injuries and management strategies
Authors: FC Liu, JN Halsey, NC Oleck, ES Lee, MS Granick
Journal: Craniomaxillofacial Trauma & Reconstruction
Year: 2019

Title: Traumatic falls in the pediatric population: facial fracture patterns observed in a leading cause of childhood injury
Authors: NC Oleck, AA Dobitsch, FC Liu, JN Halsey, TMT Le, IC Hoppe, ES Lee, MS Granick
Journal: Annals of Plastic Surgery
Year: 2019

Title: Sports-related pediatric facial trauma: analysis of facial fracture pattern and concomitant injuries
Authors: AA Dobitsch, NC Oleck, FC Liu, JN Halsey, IC Hoppe, ES Lee, MS Granick
Journal: The Surgery Journal
Year: 2019

Title: Motor vehicle collision injuries: An analysis of facial fractures in the urban pediatric population
Authors: TMT Le, NC Oleck, FC Liu, JN Halsey, IC Hoppe, ES Lee, MS Granick
Journal: Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
Year: 2020

Title: Implications of facial fracture in airway management of the adult population: what is the most effective management strategy?
Authors: TMT Le, NC Oleck, W Khan, JN Halsey, FC Liu, IC Hoppe, ES Lee, MS Granick
Journal: Annals of Plastic Surgery
Year: 2019

Prof. Sergey Kozlov | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Sergey Kozlov | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Shemiakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of bioorganic chemistry RAS, Russia.

Dr. Sergey Kozlov is a DSc and Head of the Laboratory of Neuroreceptors and Neuroregulators at the Shemiakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry. He also teaches at the Federal State Russian Biotechnological University. His research focuses on the rational search for active molecules and the analysis of their structure-function relationships, particularly for potential healthcare applications. His most notable contributions include discovering ligands for acid-sensitive ion channels, which have promising therapeutic potential for treating pain, inflammation, drug addiction, anxiety, and neurodegenerative conditions such as stroke.

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🎓 Education

Prof. Sergey Kozlov is a distinguished scientist and educator specializing in bioorganic chemistry and biotechnology. He earned his Doctor of Science (DSc) from the Shemiakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, where he conducted advanced research in biochemical processes and molecular interactions. Currently, he serves as a teaching faculty member at the Federal State Russian Biotechnological University, where he contributes to academic development and scientific research in biotechnology. With extensive expertise in biomolecular studies, Prof. Kozlov plays a crucial role in training future researchers and advancing innovation in bioorganic chemistry.

💼 Experience

Professor Sergey Kozlov is the Head of the Laboratory of Neuroreceptors and Neuroregulators at the Shemiakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry. He is also a Professor & Researcher at the Federal State Russian Biotechnological University. Additionally, he collaborates with various Russian chemical laboratories on the functional testing of low molecular weight compounds.

His expertise likely involves bioorganic chemistry, neurobiology, and possibly pharmacology, with a focus on receptor interactions and the regulation of neurochemical processes in the brain.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Kozlov's research focuses on protein chemistry, including:

Separation of natural mixtures and structure determination

Activity analysis of compounds using imaging and electrophysiology

Development of animal models for testing new molecules

Production of recombinant proteins and receptor mutagenesis
His work has contributed significantly to understanding acid-sensitive ion channels, which play a role in pain management, inflammation, addiction, anxiety, and neurodegeneration.

🏆 Awards & Recognitions

Member – The International Society on Toxinology

Member – Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS)

Hirsch Index: 28 (WoS)

Patents: 19 published, 2 under review

Consultancy/Industry Projects: 2 completed

Research Projects: 6 (4 completed, 2 ongoing)

📚 Selected Publications

Mutagenesis of the Peptide Inhibitor of ASIC3 Channel Introduces Binding to Thumb Domain of ASIC1a but Reduces Analgesic Activity
Marine Drugs, Aug 2024 | DOI: 10.3390/md22090382
🧬 Examines peptide inhibitors of ASIC3 channels and their effect on pain relief.

Opioid Analgesic as a Positive Allosteric Modulator of Acid-Sensing Ion Channels
Int. J. Mol. Sci., Jan 2024 | DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031413
💊 Investigates opioid analgesics as modulators of ASIC channels for potential pain management.

Venom-gland transcriptomics and proteomics of the Tibellus oblongus spider
Dataset, Oct 2023 | DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.21842034
🕷️ Provides genomic insights into spider venom composition.

Fifty Years of Animal Toxin Research at the Shemyakin–Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS
Int. J. Mol. Sci., Sep 2023 | DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813884
🏛️ Reviews five decades of toxin research at IBCh RAS.

Dual Modulator of ASIC Channels and GABA<sub>A</sub> Receptors from Thyme Alters Fear-Related Hippocampal Activity
Int. J. Mol. Sci., Aug 2023 | DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713148
🌿 Explores a thyme-derived compound affecting ASIC and GABA receptors linked to anxiety.

 

 

 

Dr. Amy Miner Ross | Immunology | Best Innovation Award

Dr. Amy Miner Ross | Immunology | Best Innovation Award

OHSU, United States.

Dr. Amy Miner Ross, Ph.D., R.N., C.N.S., is an esteemed nursing scholar and educator at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing. With a rich background in neuroscience nursing, critical care, and health systems leadership, she has significantly contributed to research on inflammatory response in stroke/TIA and work environments in nursing. Over the years, Dr. Ross has received multiple prestigious awards, served in key academic leadership roles, and has been an advocate for evidence-based nursing practice and education.

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📚 Education

Dr. Amy Miner Ross holds a Ph.D. in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University (2006), where her research focused on the inflammatory response in stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIA). She earned an M.S. in Nursing from the University of California, San Francisco (1987), specializing in Physiological Nursing and Physiology. Her academic foundation includes a B.S. in Nursing from the University of San Francisco (1978) and an A.S. in Science from City College of San Francisco (1974). With a strong background in nursing education and research, Dr. Ross has made significant contributions to the understanding of physiological responses in critical health conditions.

👩‍🏫 Professional Experience

Dr. Amy Miner Ross is an Associate Professor at the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing, where she has been a faculty member since 2006. She has held various leadership roles, including Interim Director of the Doctor of Philosophy Program (2020–2022) and Director of Health Systems & Organizational Leadership (2014–2024). From 2006 to 2012, she was also a faculty member in the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program.

Beyond academia, Dr. Ross has extensive clinical and research experience. She served as a Research Consultant & Director of Professional Development at Asante Health System (2005–2008) and worked as a Neuroscience Clinical Nurse Specialist at Rogue Valley Medical Center (2003–2006). Earlier in her career, she was a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Neurosurgery Research at the University of California, San Francisco (1983–1989), contributing to advancements in neurosurgical care and research.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Ross's research focuses on:

Inflammatory response in stroke/TIA

Peripheral immune response trajectories in stroke patients

Work environments & nursing care quality

Health systems leadership & nursing education

She has been involved in NIH-funded research and has received grants for projects investigating stroke immunology, healthcare environments, and virtual reality applications in nursing.

🏆 Awards & Honors

OHSU SON Excellence in Teaching Award (2023)

OHSU Graduate Faculty Recognition Award (2023, 2016)

FLAME Award – Faculty Mentor Nominee (2023)

Sakai Inclusivity Award – OHSU Teaching Learning Center (2022)

Top Downloaded Paper Award – Journal of Nursing Scholarship (2018-2019)

Neuroscience Nursing Foundation New Investigator Award (2013)

Pan American Games Gold Medalist – Synchronized Swimming (1971)

📄 Selected Publications

Liu, J., You, L., Zheng, J., Ross, A.M., & Liu, K. (2016). Effects of work environments on the quality of care in ICUs: a multisite study in China. Journal of Nursing Care Quality. PMID: 26796973 [Cited 25 times]

Ross, A. M., Lee, C. S., & Lutsep, H. (2015). Influence of Gender and Age on the Peripheral Immune Response in Stroke. Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing. PMID: 25774839 [Cited 6 times]

Ross, A. M. & Lee, C. S. (2015). Description and identification of the peripheral immune response trajectories over time in first-time & recurrent stroke/TIA. Journal of Neuroscience Nursing, 47(5), 256-262. PMID: 26236950 [Cited 3 times]

Li, K., Yan, T., You, L., Li, R., & Ross, A. M. (2015). International classification of functioning, disability and health categories for spinal cord injury nursing in China. Disability and Rehabilitation, 37(1), 25-32. PMID: 24564326 [Cited 15 times]

 

 

 

Prof. Abdolkarim Sheikhi | Vaccine | Best Innovation Award

Prof. Abdolkarim Sheikhi | Vaccine | Best Innovation Award

Queens University, Canada.

Abdolkarim Sheikhi is an Iranian immunologist and professor at Dezful University of Medical Sciences. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, he has made significant contributions to the field of immunology, particularly in NK cell activity, immune responses, and molecular immunology. He has held key academic positions, supervised numerous research projects, and has been actively involved in establishing laboratories and clinical centers. His expertise extends to advanced immunological techniques, teaching, and scientific society memberships.

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🎓 Education

Abdolkarim Sheikhi earned his B.Sc. in Biological Sciences from Shahid Chamran University, Iran (1985–1989), followed by an M.Sc. in Medical Immunology from Tarbiat Modarres University, Iran (1989–1992), where he researched Natural Killer (NK) activity assays in cancerous patients and normal individuals. He then completed his Ph.D. in Medical Immunology at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran (1996–2002), focusing on the influence of soluble HLA molecules on NK cells, particularly their quantity and role in malignant peritoneal and pleural effusions, shedding light on immune interactions in cancer progression.

💼 Experience

Professor Abdolkarim Sheikhi has had a distinguished academic career in Immunology, currently serving as a Professor at the Department of Immunology, Dezful University of Medical Sciences (2016–Present). Before this, he was an Associate Professor at the same institution (2010–2016) and at Zanjan University of Medical Sciences (2009–2010). His journey in academia began as an Assistant Professor (2002–2009) and an Academic Staff Member (1992–2002) at Zanjan University of Medical Sciences. In addition to his teaching and research, he has held Visiting Scientist positions at Queen’s University (Canada), Universitätsklinikum Kiel (Germany), and VUmc University (Netherlands), contributing to global immunology research.

🔬 Research Interests

Immunology: Natural Killer (NK) cells, immune regulation, immune responses in infections and cancers

Molecular Immunology: sHLA molecules, T cell activation, antigen presentation

Autoimmune Diseases & Allergies

Cancer Immunotherapy & Monoclonal Antibodies

🏆 Awards

Tehran University of Medical Sciences – Research grant for autologous LAK cell therapy in cancer

Shahed University of Medical Sciences – Study on the effect of garlic extract on RAGE expression in diabetic patients

📚 Selected Publications

Sheikhi, A., Baghaie, L., Rahbarizadeh, F., Safarzadeh Kozani, P., Moradian, C., Davidi, M., Baharifar, N., Kaboli, G., Sheikhi, M., Li, Y., et al. (2025).
Novel sACE2-Anti-CD16VHH Fusion Protein Surreptitiously Inhibits SARS-CoV-2 Variant Spike Proteins and Macrophage Cytokines, and Activates Natural Killer Cell Cytotoxicity.
Vaccines.

Yazdanpanah‐Samani, M., Ramezani, A., Sheikhi, A., Mostafavi‐Pour, Z., Erfani, N. (2024).
Anti‐PD‐L1 Chimeric Antigen Receptor Natural Killer Cell: Characterization and Functional Analysis.
APMIS.

Akbarian, S., Sheikhi, M., Khedri, P., Baharifar, N., Khalaf Shamsabadi, F., Davidi, M. R., Khazaei, H. A., Assarian, H., Sheikhi, A. (2023).
The Correlation Between Humoral Immune Responses and Severity of Clinical Symptoms in COVID-19 Patients.
Epidemiology and Infection.

Momtazan, S., Ramezani, S., Momeni, A., Sheikhi, A. (2023).
The Potential Benefits of Ginger in Cancer Therapy.
Trends in Medical Sciences.