Xu Cao | interoception  | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Xu Cao | interoception  | Best Researcher Award

Orthopedics Research at University of Johns Hopkins , United States

Professional Profile

Scopus

Summary

Dr. Xu Cao is the Lee Riley Professor and Director of the Center for Musculoskeletal Research at Johns Hopkins University. An internationally recognized expert in bone biology and musculoskeletal science, he has significantly advanced our understanding of bone remodeling, interoception, and skeletal diseases. With over three decades of academic and clinical research experience, Dr. Cao has led groundbreaking studies in the interplay between the skeletal and nervous systems, and his contributions continue to influence the fields of orthopedics and regenerative medicine.

Educational Details

Dr. Cao earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry and Biochemistry from the University of South Carolina, Columbia (1988–1991). He then completed postdoctoral training in bone biology at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri (1991–1996), focusing on skeletal research and molecular signaling pathways that regulate bone health.

Professional Experience

Dr. Cao began his academic career as an Assistant Professor of Pathology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1996. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 2000 and Professor in 2004. In 2009, he joined Johns Hopkins University as the Lee Riley Professor and Director of the Center for Musculoskeletal Research in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery. He is also the founding editor of Bone Research and Translational Biomaterials, actively shaping the field’s academic dialogue.

Research Interests

Dr. Cao's research focuses on bone biology, arthritis, interoception, and pain signaling. He is known for discovering TGF-β as a coupling factor in bone remodeling and revealing its role in angiogenesis and skeletal diseases such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and enthesopathy. His recent studies highlight the brain-skeletal axis and how the central nervous system modulates bone health through molecular pathways like PGE2/EP4 interoception.

Author Metrics

Dr. Cao has authored over 167 peer-reviewed journal articles, holds an H-index of 77, and has contributed to 25 major research projects. His innovation portfolio includes 21 patents and 5 published books. He has also led 7 industry consultancy projects, underlining his translational impact on medical science and technology.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Cao has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Merck Young Investigator Award, Sandoz Award, and the John Haddad Young Investigator Award, all conferred by the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR) in 1993. He holds memberships in leading professional organizations such as ASBMR, ORS, and ICMRS, reflecting his ongoing commitment to advancing orthopedic and musculoskeletal science globally.

Publication Top Notes

 1. Brain Regulates Weight‑Bearing Bone through PGE₂ Skeletal Interoception: Implication of Ankle Osteoarthritis and Pain

Summary:

2. Proton‑Activated Chloride Channel Increases Endplate Porosity and Pain in a Mouse Spine Degeneration Model

Highlights:

  • Acidic microenvironment in spinal degeneration activates the PAC channel, upregulated during osteoclastogenesis via RANKL/NFATc1.

  • Activated PAC promotes osteoclast fusion, increasing endplate porosity, nerve innervation, and pain behaviors.

  • PAC knockout mice show normalized endplate structure and reduced mechanical hypersensitivity, suggesting PAC as a therapeutic target for spinal pain.

 3. Cachexia in Preclinical Rheumatoid Arthritis: Longitudinal Observational Study of Thigh MRI from Osteoarthritis Initiative Cohort

Study Design and Results:

  • 102 Pre‑RA subjects vs. 306 matched controls assessed via thigh MRI at baseline and after 2 years.

  • Pre‑RA group experienced significantly greater muscle atrophy: ΔCSA ≈ ‑180 mm² over 2 years (P < 0.001).

  • Intermuscular adipose tissue (Inter‑MAT) increased by ≈+150 mm² in Pre‑RA (P < 0.001), while total adipose changes were non‑significant onlinelibrary.wiley.com+5pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+5onlinelibrary.wiley.com+5.

  • Conclusion: Muscle wasting and fat infiltration—markers of cachexia—are present in preclinical RA.

4. Thigh Muscle Composition Changes in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients During Weight Loss: Sex‑Specific Analysis Using OAI Data

Findings:

  • Both sexes showed improved muscle quality during weight loss, with decreases in intramuscular fat and increases in contractile tissue.

  • Female patients had smaller improvements—less reduction in intramuscular fat and smaller contractile increases compared to males.

 5. Unloading‑Induced Skeletal Interoception Alters Hypothalamic Signaling to Promote Bone Loss and Fat Metabolism

  • Authors: Guo Q, Chen N, Patel K, Wan M, Zheng J, Xu Cao, et al.

  • Journal: Advanced Science

  • Publication Date: December 15, 2023

  • DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305042 jci.org

Synopsis:

  • Using hindlimb unloading in mice to simulate unloading conditions (e.g., microgravity).

  • Reduction in skeletal PGE₂/EP4 leads to decreased hypothalamic NPY and TH expression, increasing sympathetic output.

  • Consequent bone loss and enhanced fat metabolism demonstrate central circuit involvement in skeletal and metabolic adaptation.

Conclusion

Prof. Xu Cao is not only suitable but ideal for the Best Researcher Award in the domain of interoception and musculoskeletal research. His work exemplifies the highest standards of innovation, scientific rigor, and translational relevance. His pioneering contributions to skeletal-brain communication have reshaped how we understand bone biology, pain, and systemic metabolism.

Alireza Zabihi | Electrical Engineering | Industry Impact Award

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Mr. Alireza Zabihi | Electrical Engineering | Industry Impact Award

PhD researcher  University of Coimbra at Portugal

Professional Profile

Orcid
Google Scholar
Scopus

Summary

Alireza Zabihi is a dedicated researcher and engineer specializing in electrical engineering, power systems, and renewable energy. With a strong academic foundation and hands-on industrial experience, he has contributed significantly to the advancement of photovoltaic systems, smart grids, electric vehicles (EVs), and microgrids. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Intelligent Systems at the University of Coimbra, Portugal, Alireza combines academic excellence with a passion for sustainable and intelligent power solutions.

Educational Details

Alireza is currently undertaking his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Intelligent Systems at the University of Coimbra, where his research focuses on optimizing ship power system connections to ports, contributing to sustainable maritime energy solutions. He holds a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Electrical Engineering (Power Systems) from Islamic Azad University, Najafabad Branch, Iran, with a thesis titled Detection and Assessment of Partial Shading Against Hotspot Phenomenon in PV Generation Systems and a GPA of 3.16. He also earned his Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Electrical Engineering from the same institution, with a thesis on Renewable Energy Sources and Challenges in Power Systems, graduating with a GPA of 3.09.

Professional Experience

Alireza has significant professional experience bridging academia and industry. He worked as an Electrical Engineer at Fara Atlas Electric Company in Isfahan, Iran, where he managed the production and quality control of medium-voltage cables. He also served as a part-time researcher at EPCCSOLAR group in Iran, focusing on optimizing photovoltaic systems. His involvement in academia extends to serving on the editorial board of the Journal of Modern Technology and actively reviewing for journals such as E-Prime – Advances in Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Energy (Elsevier) and the IEEE Internet of Things Journal.

Research Interests

Alireza’s research interests include power systems optimization, renewable energy integration, photovoltaic performance enhancement, smart grid technologies, electric mobility infrastructure, microgrids, and zero-energy buildings. His doctoral research particularly emphasizes shore power systems and sustainable maritime energy, reflecting his broader commitment to innovation and resilience in modern power networks.

Author Metrics

Alireza Zabihi is registered with several research identifiers, including ORCID (0000-0003-4800-5583) and Ciência ID (9016-D348-6CFD). His academic contributions include peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations in the fields of electrical engineering and renewable energy. He is an active peer reviewer for top-tier journals, reflecting both the quality and relevance of his expertise.

Awards and Honors

Alireza is currently a recipient of a prestigious research grant (reference 7220) under the project titled Shore Power Connection for Port of Aveiro in Portugal, funded by the Universidade de Coimbra. This grant supports his doctoral research and highlights his role in advancing energy sustainability within port and maritime infrastructure.

Publication Top Notes

1. Empowering the Grid: Toward the Integration of Electric Vehicles and Renewable Energy in Power Systems

  • Authors: A. Zabihi, M. Parhamfar

  • Journal: International Journal of Energy Security and Sustainable Energy (IJESSE)

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 30

  • Highlights: This article explores the challenges and strategies for integrating electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy sources into modern power systems, proposing sustainable grid solutions.

2. A Partial Shading Detection Algorithm for Photovoltaic Generation Systems

  • Authors: A. Zabihi, I. Sadeghkhani, B. Fani

  • Journal: Journal of Solar Energy Research

  • Year: 2021

  • Citations: 27

  • Highlights: The paper presents an algorithm to detect partial shading in PV systems, addressing efficiency loss and hotspot risks, improving the reliability of solar installations.

3. Developing a Robust Expansion Planning Approach for Transmission Networks and Privately-Owned Renewable Sources

  • Authors: L. Peng, A. Zabihi, M. Azimian, H. Shirvani, F. Shahnia

  • Journal: IEEE Access

  • Year: 2022

  • Citations: 19

  • Highlights: This work proposes a robust framework for transmission network expansion considering the integration of privately-owned renewables, contributing to resilient grid development.

4. Increase Power Output and Radiation in Photovoltaic Systems by Installing Mirrors

  • Authors: A. Zabihi, M. Parhamfar, S.S. Duvvuri, M. Abtahi

  • Journal: Measurement: Sensors

  • Article ID: 100946

  • Year: 2023

  • Citations: 13

  • Highlights: The paper investigates a practical method to boost PV system efficiency using reflective surfaces, demonstrating measurable gains in power output and solar irradiance.

5. Assessment of Faults in the Performance of Hydropower Plants within Power Systems

  • Author: A. Zabihi

  • Journal: International Scientific Journal Energy Systems Research

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 8

  • Highlights: The study analyzes operational faults in hydropower plants, offering insights into performance degradation and strategies for reliability enhancement.

Conclusion

Mr. Alireza Zabihi is highly suitable for the Research for Industry Impact Award, demonstrating an exceptional mix of academic rigor, industrial relevance, and societal value. His focus on sustainable energy systems, practical PV solutions, and power grid resilience reflects a deep understanding of industry challenges. With strategic steps toward commercialization and broader collaboration, his contributions can scale further in real-world applications.

Mohaddeseh Larypoor | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mohaddeseh Larypoor | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor of Mycology at Islamic Azad University, Tehran North Branch, Tehran, Iran

Professional Profile

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Summary

Dr. Mohaddeseh Larypoor is an Associate Professor of Medical Mycology at the Islamic Azad University, Tehran North Branch. With expertise in fungal biotechnology, probiotics, and microbial applications, she has authored over 80 scientific articles and several books in Persian. Her pioneering research focuses on fungal biofilms, antimicrobial nanomaterials, and probiotic health benefits.

Educational Details

While the document does not list specific degrees, Dr. Larypoor holds a doctoral-level academic position and has demonstrated advanced expertise in microbiology, mycology, and molecular diagnostics through her extensive research, authorship, and university role. Her institutional affiliation is with the Faculty of Biological Sciences, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch.

Professional Experience

Dr. Larypoor serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Microbiology, where she has contributed significantly to teaching and research in medical mycology and applied microbiology. She leads projects in biosensor design, antifungal nanomaterials, and cancer-related molecular studies. Her interdisciplinary collaborations span fungal biotechnology, food microbiology, and environmental bioremediation.

Research Interest

Her research interests include fungal pathogenesis and biofilm formation, probiotic applications in cancer and infection control, bioactive compounds from fungi, antifungal resistance mechanisms, and biosensors for rapid pathogen detection. She is also actively investigating nanobiotechnology, the bio-remediation potential of fungi, and nutraceutical effects of microbial pigments.

Author Metrics

Dr. Larypoor has published over 80 articles in Persian and English, many of which appear in Scopus-indexed and SCI journals. Her articles on fungal resistance, probiotic modulation of cancer genes, and biosensors have received notable citations, including 40+ citations on Treg cell modulation and 18+ citations for studies on metal recovery via fungi. Some of her most-cited works address immune modulation, nanotechnology in antifungal therapy, and microbial biopolymer applications.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Larypoor has been nominated for various scientific awards recognizing her excellence in research, innovation, and authorship in microbiology. She has also contributed as a first or corresponding author in the majority of her publications, authored two academic books in Persian, and is currently writing a book on laboratory animals.

Publication Top Notes

1. Apoptosis resistance in epithelial tumors is mediated by tumor-cell-derived interleukin-4

Authors: M. Todaro, Y. Lombardo, M.G. Francipane, M.P. Alea, P. Cammareri, F. Iovino, et al.
Journal: Cell Death & Differentiation, Volume 15, Issue 4, Pages 762–772
Year: 2008
Citations: 296
Summary: This seminal paper demonstrates how interleukin-4 produced by tumor cells enhances apoptosis resistance in epithelial cancers, underscoring IL-4’s role as a target for cancer therapy.

2. Global prevalence of nosocomial infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Authors: S. Raoofi, F. Pashazadeh Kan, S. Rafiei, Z. Hosseinipalangi, et al.
Journal: PLOS ONE, Volume 18, Issue 1, e0274248
Year: 2023
Citations: 212
Summary: A global meta-analysis reporting the burden and prevalence of hospital-acquired infections, highlighting urgent needs in infection prevention strategies worldwide.

3. Expression and DNA methylation of TNF, IFNG and FOXP3 in colorectal cancer and their prognostic significance

Authors: S.K. Ganapathi, A.D. Beggs, S.V. Hodgson, D. Kumar
Journal: British Journal of Cancer, Volume 111, Issue 8, Pages 1581–1589
Year: 2014
Citations: 59
Summary: This study investigates how epigenetic changes in key immune genes impact colorectal cancer prognosis, contributing to biomarker development for personalized treatment.

4. Evaluation of nosocomial infections in one of hospitals of Qom, 2008

Authors: M. Larypoor, S. Frsad
Journal: Iranian Journal of Medical Microbiology, Volume 5, Issue 3, Pages 7–17
Year: 2011
Citations: 51
Summary: Co-authored by Dr. Larypoor, this work surveys infection rates and patterns in a hospital setting in Qom, Iran, contributing local data to the global nosocomial infection discourse.

5. Evaluation of the number of CD4⁺ CD25⁺ FoxP3⁺ Treg cells in normal mice exposed to AFB1 and treated with aged garlic extract

Authors: M. Larypoor, M. Bayat, M.H. Zuhair, A.A. Sepahy, M. Amanlou
Journal: Cell Journal (Yakhteh), Volume 15, Issue 1, Page 37
Year: 2013
Citations: 40
Summary: Dr. Larypoor’s study explores the immunomodulatory effects of aged garlic extract in the context of aflatoxin B1 exposure, focusing on Treg cell dynamics—a key insight into food-borne toxin mitigation.

Conclusion

Dr. Mohaddeseh Larypoor is a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her prolific publication record, interdisciplinary expertise, and real-world problem-solving approach through mycology and microbiology reflect deep commitment and innovation. Minor improvements in international collaboration and patent output would further elevate her already impactful career.

Lin Zhang | Landscape Architecture | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Lin Zhang | Landscape Architecture | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, china

Professional Profile

Orcid

Summary

Dr. Lin Zhang is a postdoctoral fellow at the School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture. With a Ph.D. in Landscape Architecture from Seoul National University, Korea, her work integrates theory and practice in urban cultural landscape renewal. Dr. Zhang has authored over 20 academic papers, contributed to multiple national and international research projects, and actively participates in scholarly collaborations between China and South Korea.

Educational Details

Lin Zhang earned her Ph.D. in Landscape Architecture from Seoul National University, Korea, following earlier academic training focused on the built environment and landscape planning. Her doctoral research laid the foundation for her current work in heritage preservation and urban design.

Professional Experience

Currently a postdoctoral researcher at Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Dr. Zhang has participated in a range of high-impact research initiatives including the Beijing Postdoctoral Program and China–South Korea bilateral projects. She has also engaged in five consultancy or industry-sponsored projects, contributing expert insights to practical landscape planning and community renewal programs.

Research Interests

Her core research interests include the history and theory of landscape architecture, urban design, community renewal, and cultural landscape heritage protection. She is particularly focused on integrating digital tools—such as spatial humanities and text mining—with traditional planning theories to study organic renewal of urban and rural cultural landscapes in East Asia.

Author Metrics

Dr. Zhang's research has appeared in leading journals indexed by SCI and Scopus, such as Heritage Science, Land, Buildings, and Sustainability. Selected citations include:

  • Land (2023)

  • Buildings (2023)

  • Sustainability (2023)

  • Heritage Science (2023)

  • Urban and Regional Planning (2023)
    She also authored a book (ISBN: 978-7-5772-0976-0) and serves as a reviewer for leading journals such as Chinese Landscape Architecture, Landscape Architecture Frontiers, and others.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Zhang has led or participated in several competitive research grants including the Youth Capacity Enhancement Project at BUCEA and five international collaborative projects. She holds membership in respected organizations like the Chinese Society of Landscape Architecture, the Korean Society of Traditional Landscape Architecture, and ICOMOS China. She is currently being considered for the “Best Researcher Award” by the Architecture Engineers Awards.

Publication Top Notes

1.  Current Status and Prospects of Ecological Restoration and Brownfield Reuse Research Based on Bibliometric Analysis: A Literature Review

  • Authors: Lin Zhang, Yuzhou Wang, Qi Ding, Shi Yang

  • Journal: Land

  • Publisher: MDPI

  • Publication Date: May 30, 2025

  • Abstract: This paper employs bibliometric methods to analyze trends, research hotspots, and developmental trajectories in ecological restoration and brownfield reuse studies. It offers strategic insights into future research directions within the field of sustainable urban planning.
2.  The Philosophy of “Body and Use”: The Appropriate Use of Bodies in the Tea Space of Ming and Qing Dynasty Literati Paintings

  • Authors: Lin Zhang, Shi Yang

  • Journal: Buildings

  • Publisher: MDPI

  • Publication Date: March 19, 2025

  • Abstract: This interdisciplinary study explores how bodily behavior and spatial philosophy are embedded in literati tea paintings of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The research emphasizes the integration of architectural space and cultural embodiment in traditional Chinese art.

3. Quantitative Evaluation of Plants on Top Surface of the Great Wall in Dazhuangke Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process

  • Authors: Jianbin Pan, Nuo Xu, Yuyang Tang, Meijing Cheng, Lin Zhang, Bing Wang, Jingwen Lan

  • Journal: Heritage Science

  • Publisher: Springer Nature

  • Publication Date: September 11, 2023

  • Abstract: This paper applies the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to evaluate vegetation growing on the Great Wall’s surface, balancing ecological benefits and preservation needs. It provides a scientific framework for vegetation management in heritage conservation.
4. Investigating the Relationship between Landscape Design Types and Human Thermal Comfort: Case Study of Beijing Olympic Forest Park

  • Authors: Lin Zhang, Haiyun Xu, Jianbin Pan

  • Journal: Sustainability

  • Publisher: MDPI

  • Publication Date: February 2023

  • Abstract: This empirical study explores how different landscape design types affect human thermal comfort in urban green spaces. Using field data from Beijing Olympic Forest Park, it provides evidence-based guidance for climate-responsive urban design.

Conclusion

Dr. Lin Zhang is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. Her academic foundation, international research collaborations, strong publication record, and innovative focus on the intersection of cultural heritage and digital technology make her a standout candidate.

While there is room to grow in terms of technology transfer and public engagement, her trajectory and interdisciplinary strengths clearly align with the values this award seeks to promote: academic excellence, research impact, and cultural advancement in the built environment.