Philipp Kanske | Medicine | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Philipp Kanske | Medicine | Research Excellence Award

Professor | TUD Dresden University of Technology | Germany

Prof. Dr. Philipp Kanske is an internationally recognized expert in cognitive and affective neuroscience whose work bridges psychology, social cognition, neuroimaging, and mental health research. His research centers on empathy, compassion, emotion regulation, personality functioning, and the neurobiological mechanisms that shape human social behavior across the lifespan. He investigates how individuals perceive and respond to others’ emotions, how empathic stress is transmitted within families, and how interventions such as meditation and compassion training can induce functional neural plasticity and improve emotional well-being, particularly in older adults. His interests extend to personality organization in both clinical and non-clinical populations, disease progression in bipolar disorder, white-matter microstructure, attachment dynamics in couples, value integration for self and others, and ritual-based methods for strengthening human–nature connectedness in the context of sustainability transformations. Prof. Kanske is skilled in a wide range of methodologies including experimental psychology, behavioral analysis, longitudinal study design, cognitive testing, psychoneuroendocrinology, structural and functional MRI, and advanced statistical modeling. His contributions to research transparency and reproducibility are reflected in his leadership in developing the PECANS methodological framework for cognitive and neuropsychological studies. Throughout his career, he has received multiple awards and honors (as listed in Scopus’s “Awarded Grants” section), recognizing his innovative contributions to social neuroscience, aging research, and clinical psychology. According to Scopus Preview, he has 7,136 citations, 163 documents, and an impressive h-index of 43, underscoring his global scientific influence and sustained scholarly productivity. Overall, Prof. Dr. Philipp Kanske’s work provides significant insights into how emotional, neural, and relational processes shape human behavior, offering important implications for mental health, interpersonal functioning, and societal well-being, and solidifying his role as a leading figure in modern neuroscience and psychology.

ProfilesScopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  1. Kanske, P., Heissler, J., Schönfelder, S., Bongers, A., & Wessa, M. (2011). How to regulate emotion? Neural networks for reappraisal and distraction. Cerebral Cortex, 21(6), 1379–138.
    Citations: 698

  2. Schurz, M., Radua, J., Tholen, M. G., Maliske, L., Margulies, D. S., Mars, R. B., … Kanske, P. (2021). Toward a hierarchical model of social cognition: A neuroimaging meta-analysis and integrative review of empathy and theory of mind. Psychological Bulletin, 147(3), 293–. Citations: 648

  3. Kanske, P., & Kotz, S. A. (2007). Concreteness in emotional words: ERP evidence from a hemifield study. Brain Research, 1148, 138–148. Citations: 630

  4. Preckel, K., Kanske, P., & Singer, T. (2018). On the interaction of social affect and cognition: Empathy, compassion and theory of mind. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 19, 1–6.
    Citations: 554

  5. Moshontz, H., Campbell, L., Ebersole, C. R., IJzerman, H., Urry, H. L., Forscher, P. S., … Kanske, P. (2018). The Psychological Science Accelerator: Advancing psychology through a distributed collaborative network. Advances in Methods and Practices in Psychological Science, 1(4), 501–515. Citations: 499

Prof. Dr. Philipp Kanske’s work advances global scientific understanding of empathy, compassion, and emotion regulation by uncovering the neural and psychological mechanisms that drive healthy social functioning. His research enables evidence-based mental-health interventions, strengthens human well-being across communities, and supports interdisciplinary innovation in neuroscience, clinical psychology, aging research, and societal resilience.

 

Hengrui Liu | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hengrui Liu | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | University of Cambridge | United Kingdom

Dr. Hengrui Liu is a distinguished researcher at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, whose interdisciplinary work spans molecular biology, oncology, pharmacogenomics, and bioinformatics. With a remarkable Scopus h-index of 31, over 2,300 citations, and 55 publications, Dr. Liu has made substantial contributions to understanding cancer biology and translational medicine. His research integrates computational modeling, systems biology, and experimental oncology, focusing on identifying molecular mechanisms underlying drug resistance, tumor progression, and therapeutic targeting.One of Dr. Liu’s notable contributions includes the use of CRISPR screening and cell line IC50 data to uncover genes responsible for trametinib resistance, highlighting potential pathways for targeted cancer therapy. He also explores the role of transcription factors in protein autoubiquitination across multiple cancer types through pan-cancer in-silico profiling, advancing precision oncology approaches. His expertise extends to traditional medicine and integrative therapies, as seen in his recent studies on the role of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in improving liver transplantation outcomes, bridging conventional and modern biomedical practices.Dr. Liu’s recent review on the multidimensional role of laminin γ2 (LAMC2) in cancer progression provides a comprehensive understanding of how extracellular matrix components influence tumor behavior and metastasis. His interdisciplinary research brings together molecular mechanisms, clinical relevance, and computational insight, reflecting a holistic approach to biomedical innovation. Moreover, his collaborative network of over 100 co-authors underscores his global impact and leadership in international scientific research.Through his pioneering studies, Dr. Hengrui Liu contributes to the development of novel therapeutic strategies, drug resistance biomarkers, and predictive computational frameworks that enhance the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of complex diseases such as cancer. His work exemplifies the synergy between data-driven research and molecular experimentation, reinforcing his reputation as a forward-thinking scientist shaping the future of personalized medicine and biomedical innovation.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Liu, H., et al. (2025). CRISPR screening and cell line IC50 data reveal novel key genes for trametinib resistance. Open-access Letter. 26 citations.

Liu, H., et al. (2025). In vitro antibacterial activity of neochebulinic acid from aqueous extract of Terminalia chebula Retz against Helicobacter pylori. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. 1 citation.

Liu, H., et al. (2025). An in-silico pan-cancer bulk and single-cell profiling of transcription factors in protein autoubiquitination. Discover Oncology. 2 citations.

Liu, H., et al. (2025). The multidimensional role of laminin γ2 (LAMC2) on cancer progression. Review Article. 0 citations.

Liu, H., et al. (2025). Role of traditional Chinese medicine in supporting liver transplantation outcomes. World Journal of Transplantation. 4 citations.

Zhihui Zhao | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhihui Zhao | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Student | Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Nursing | China

Dr. Zhihui Zhao is a distinguished researcher in nursing and public health whose academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Zhengzhou University in 2020, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing from the School of Nursing, Wuhan University, completed in 2023; during her master’s studies she served as party branch secretary of graduate students and earned high academic distinction with a GPA of around 3.71/4.00. Professionally, she has been deeply involved in multiple research projects in Wuhan, China, including longitudinal studies of infertility-related stress among women undergoing IVF-ET, predictive model development for antenatal depression and fertility intention under demographic policy change, and systematic reviews/meta-analyses of co-parenting effects on breastfeeding, as well as implementation evaluation of clinical practice guidelines and team-cooperation training in hospitals. Her research interests lie in maternal and child health, psychosocial stressors in infertile or expectant populations, guideline implementation, mental health in perinatal and undergraduate populations, and breastfeeding promotion within ecological and social systems. She has developed skills in statistical modelling, clinical prediction modeling, meta-analysis (RevMan), use of software tools like SPSS, Weka, Mplus, qualitative and quantitative mixed-methods designs, evidence-based practice, and guideline evaluation. Among her awards and honours are multiple first-prize excellent academic scholarships at both Wuhan and Zhengzhou Universities, recognition as excellent student leader, university-level honours for social practice, and competition prizes including in Cochrane China evidence translation. She also holds a utility model patent (Patent No. ZL 2019 2 1461667.6) and serves as a reviewer for Frontiers in Psychiatry. In terms of citation metrics: according to ResearchGate and other public sources, her published works affiliated with Wuhan University have accumulated dozens of citations (for example, her systematic review on co-parenting and breastfeeding has been cited ≈ 12 times, and individual meta-analysis & survey works registered in BMC Medical Education and Nutrients have significant visibility); although a precise Scopus h-index for Dr. Zhi-Hui Zhao is not publicly confirmed in the sources accessed, the available document counts are in the range of 8-12 indexed works with her as first or co-author, with citation counts roughly in the tens across those documents. Through her strong publication record, leadership roles, and research skills, Dr. Zhao has established herself as an emerging leader in her field, with significant capacity for future high-impact work in maternal health, psychosocial interventions, and evidence-based guideline implementation.

Profile: ORCID 

Featured Publications

1. Zhao, Z., Qu, F., Wu, R., Wei, X., Song, X., Wu, C., Wang, J., Hua, W., & Zhu, D. (2025). The longitudinal influence of parent–grandparent coparenting relationships on preschoolers’ eating behaviors in Chinese urban families: The mediating roles of caregivers’ feeding behaviors. Nutrients, 17(18), 2961.

2. Zhao, Z., et al. (2022). Perceived social support and professional identity in nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic era: The mediating effects of self-efficacy and the moderating role of anxiety. BMC Medical Education. Citations: ~35

3. Zhao, Z., et al. (2022). Co-parenting and breastfeeding effects: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Breastfeeding Medicine. Citations: ~12

4. [Lead author], [others], & Zhao, Z. (2023). Attitudes and knowledge of palliative care of Chinese undergraduate nursing students: A multi-center cross-sectional study. Nurse Education Today. Citations: ~10

5. Jin, Y.-H., Zhao, Z., Huang, C., et al. (2022). Development and validation evaluation of the implementation evaluation tools of clinical practice guidelines. The Chinese Journal of Evidence-Based Medicine, 22(1), 111-119.Citations: ~5

 

 

Nancy Blumenthal | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nancy Blumenthal | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Advanced Senior Lecturer at  University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing | United States

Dr. Nancy P. Blumenthal, DNP, ACNP-BC, is a distinguished nurse scientist and advanced practice leader recognized for her pioneering contributions to lung transplantation and cardiopulmonary care. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Health Policy and Leadership from Yale University and advanced nursing degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Boston University, she has built a career grounded in academic excellence and clinical expertise. Her research focuses on organ allocation strategies, transplant outcomes, and patient-centered innovations, supported by notable grants including the Fu-Mei Lee Research and Innovation Grant. Widely published in premier journals such as Chest, American Journal of Transplantation, and Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation, her work bridges evidence-based research with transformative clinical application. In addition to her scholarly achievements, Dr. Blumenthal is a respected educator, mentor, and leader in professional societies, advancing global nursing standards and shaping policies that improve patient care and healthcare delivery worldwide.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile 

Education

Dr. Nancy P. Blumenthal’s educational journey reflects her dedication to advancing nursing science and healthcare leadership. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Health Policy and Leadership from Yale University, a program that strengthened her expertise in healthcare systems, evidence-based policy, and organizational leadership. Prior to Yale, she pursued advanced nursing education at the University of Pennsylvania, where she refined her clinical skills in acute and critical care. Her academic foundation began at Boston University, where she cultivated her passion for patient-centered care and medical innovation. Collectively, these esteemed institutions shaped her as a clinician, researcher, and policy advocate. Her education seamlessly integrates theory with practice, preparing her to tackle pressing healthcare challenges. By combining advanced clinical training with leadership-focused education, Dr. Blumenthal has positioned herself as both a thought leader and practitioner, capable of bridging the gap between frontline care delivery and high-level healthcare policymaking.

Experience

Dr. Blumenthal’s professional career highlights her dual expertise as a clinician and academic leader. With extensive experience in lung transplantation and advanced cardiopulmonary care, she has played a pivotal role in developing innovative strategies to improve patient survival and quality of life. Her leadership extends beyond bedside practice to institutional governance, where she has influenced healthcare policy, organizational design, and the integration of advanced nursing practice into multidisciplinary teams. She has also served as principal investigator and co-investigator on numerous funded research projects, including international collaborations focused on transplantation outcomes and organ allocation systems. As an educator, she has mentored emerging clinicians and researchers, fostering the next generation of nurse leaders. She is a respected voice in professional organizations, contributing to committees, conferences, and knowledge-sharing platforms. Dr. Blumenthal’s experience reflects a career dedicated not only to advancing science and patient care but also to shaping healthcare systems for sustainable improvement.

Research Interest

Dr. Blumenthal’s research interests focus on the critical intersection of clinical innovation, healthcare policy, and patient-centered outcomes. She is particularly dedicated to advancing lung transplantation research, with an emphasis on improving organ allocation frameworks, optimizing transplant survival, and addressing barriers to equitable access. Her studies often explore how evidence-based strategies can enhance both patient safety and long-term outcomes in complex cardiopulmonary care. She is also deeply interested in the integration of nursing leadership within transplantation research, highlighting the unique role of advanced practice nurses in bridging clinical practice with scholarly inquiry. Beyond transplantation, her research spans healthcare quality improvement, patient engagement, and the development of resilience in clinical teams. She actively collaborates with interdisciplinary researchers and policymakers, ensuring her work remains both relevant and impactful. Her research philosophy emphasizes not only generating knowledge but also translating it into sustainable models that transform healthcare delivery across diverse populations.

Award and Honor

Throughout her career, Dr. Blumenthal has received recognition for her scholarly excellence, clinical leadership, and policy contributions. Her research has been supported by notable grants such as the Fu-Mei Lee Research and Innovation Grant, which enabled significant advancements in transplantation science. She has published extensively in top-tier journals, including Chest, American Journal of Transplantation, and Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation, earning professional acclaim and high citation impact. In addition to her academic achievements, she has been honored by professional organizations such as the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT), the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, reflecting her global recognition as a leader. Her awards highlight her commitment to advancing nursing education, healthcare innovation, and policy development. Collectively, these honors affirm her reputation as an influential figure who continuously contributes to both practice and scholarly advancement.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Factors affecting integration of the nurse practitioner workforce into health systems: a Delphi consensus study
Year: 2025
Citation: 3

Title: Adaptation of the Nurse Practitioner Integration Model for older adult primary care models
Year: 2025
Citation: 2

Title: Mismatch identified in symptom burden profiles in lung transplantation: Symptom Burden Profiles
Year: 2023
Citation: 3

Conclusion

Dr. Nancy P. Blumenthal exemplifies the qualities of a transformative nurse leader, scholar, and clinician whose work has significantly shaped lung transplantation and advanced nursing practice. With a strong academic foundation, extensive clinical experience, and pioneering research, she has become a recognized authority in both clinical and academic spheres. Her contributions extend beyond individual research to policy reform, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship, creating ripple effects that elevate healthcare systems. By integrating education, research, and leadership, she has advanced patient outcomes while inspiring innovation in nursing practice worldwide. Her recognitions and honors stand as a testament to her enduring influence in healthcare. As a mentor and role model, she continues to nurture future generations of nursing leaders, ensuring sustainability and growth within the profession. Dr. Blumenthal’s career embodies excellence, dedication, and vision, making her a highly respected figure in nursing and an inspiration across the global healthcare landscape.

Viktor Savov | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Viktor Savov | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

PhD Student at Medical University of Varna | Bulgaria

Dr. Viktor Svilenov Savov is an emerging professional in the field of dental medicine, having earned his Master’s degree from the Medical University “Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov” in Varna. His academic journey reflects a balance between clinical training, research engagement, and student leadership, showcasing a multidimensional approach to healthcare development. As President of the Association of Dental Medicine Students – Varna and Vice-President of the Student Council, he demonstrated exceptional organizational and leadership skills, creating opportunities for collaboration, student advancement, and academic visibility. Viktor has actively participated in initiatives that strengthen the link between research, education, and community service, positioning himself as a catalyst for innovation in dental science. Proficient in English and German, with strong communication and computer skills, he is well-prepared to engage in international collaborations. With his dedication to advancing oral healthcare and commitment to academic excellence, he represents a promising future leader in dental research and practice.

Professional Profile

ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Viktor Svilenov Savov completed his higher education at the esteemed Medical University “Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov” in Varna, where he pursued the rigorous program in Dental Medicine and earned his Master’s degree. His educational journey reflects diligence, intellectual curiosity, and a strong desire to excel in both academic and clinical fields. Earlier, he graduated from the First Language High School in Varna, where he developed proficiency in English and German, strengthening his ability to participate in international collaborations. Throughout his studies, Viktor consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, engaging with academic societies and contributing to projects that combined theoretical knowledge with practical applications in dentistry. His education provided him with a comprehensive understanding of oral healthcare, clinical procedures, and modern approaches in patient management. This strong academic foundation has prepared him to expand his expertise further through research, collaboration, and leadership in the evolving global landscape of dental medicine.

Experience

Dr. Viktor Savov’s professional and leadership experiences highlight his commitment to advancing both patient care and student development. He worked at MDC “Dentaprime” JSC, where he gained firsthand exposure to dental practices, clinical environments, and organizational workflows. This early experience not only built his clinical adaptability but also deepened his understanding of teamwork in healthcare settings. Beyond professional practice, Viktor has held several leadership positions, such as President of the Association of Dental Medicine Students – Varna, Secretary General of the same association, and Vice-President for the Faculty of Dental Medicine within the Student Council. These roles allowed him to develop strong organizational skills, coordinate large-scale academic events, and advocate for student involvement in research and healthcare initiatives. His ability to balance professional duties with academic leadership demonstrates his dedication to holistic development. Viktor’s experience reflects both a patient-centered approach and an inspiring leadership style that nurtures collaboration and innovation.

Research Interest

Although still at an early stage of his academic career, Dr. Viktor Savov has shown a growing interest in research areas that bridge clinical dentistry, oral health, and patient-centered medical care. His focus lies in exploring innovative approaches to preventive dentistry, oral pathology, and the integration of digital tools into clinical practice. He is particularly enthusiastic about contributing to studies that enhance patient outcomes, improve diagnostic techniques, and develop sustainable solutions in dental medicine. Viktor’s research curiosity is complemented by his active participation in academic societies and student-led initiatives, where he has engaged in discussions around contemporary challenges in healthcare. His multilingual abilities, proficiency in digital tools, and dedication to continuous learning further support his potential for international collaboration. With a strong educational foundation and practical experience, he aspires to contribute meaningfully to research that not only advances dental science but also improves overall community healthcare and global medical practices.

Award and Honor

Dr. Viktor Savov has been recognized primarily through his leadership roles and the honors associated with his academic and organizational contributions. Serving as President of the Association of Dental Medicine Students – Varna stands as a testament to his leadership excellence, where he guided initiatives that fostered collaboration, professional growth, and academic enrichment for his peers. His term as Vice-President in the Student Council and his role as Secretary General further highlight his recognition within the university community as a dependable leader and advocate for student advancement. These positions brought him both respect and acknowledgment for his commitment to service and education. While still building his formal research accolades, Viktor’s leadership honors serve as early indicators of his future potential in academic and scientific recognition. His dedication to service, mentorship, and community engagement has laid the groundwork for future awards and distinctions in dental medicine and healthcare research.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Influence of SLM-, SLS-, and DMLS-Manufactured Titanium Meshes on Bone Gain Parameters and Complications: A Systematic Review
Authors: Viktor Savov; Stefan Peev; Ralitsa Yotsova; Varvara-Velika Rogova
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Viktor Svilenov Savov embodies the qualities of a dedicated healthcare professional, emerging researcher, and inspiring leader in dental medicine. With a strong academic foundation, professional experience, and proven leadership roles, he has positioned himself as a promising contributor to dentistry and medical research. His interests in advancing oral healthcare, fostering innovation, and strengthening international collaboration reflect his vision for a globally connected scientific community. The honors he has received for his leadership underscore his ability to guide and motivate peers, while his clinical exposure ensures that his approach remains patient-centered. Viktor’s journey demonstrates resilience, intellectual curiosity, and a clear commitment to both science and service. As he expands his research contributions and strengthens international engagement, he is poised to achieve greater recognition in academia and healthcare. With his holistic outlook, dedication, and potential for impactful innovation, Dr. Savov stands as a future leader in dental medicine.