Berat Çınar Acar, Biology, Best Researcher Award

Asst. Prof. Berat Çınar Acar: Assistant Professor at Gazi University Department of Biology, Turkey

Dr. Berat Çınar Acar is an academic member at the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Gazi University, specializing in microbiology and biotechnology. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Niğde University, a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from Gazi University, and a Ph.D. in Biotechnology from the same institution. Dr. Acar’s research interests are centered on microbiology, food biotechnology, environmental biotechnology, and microbial biotechnology.

Online Profiles

Education

  • B.S. in Biology: Niğde University, Faculty of Science and Literature (2004-2008)
  • M.S. in Biotechnology: Gazi University, Institute of Science (2009-2012)
  • Ph.D. in Biotechnology: Gazi University, Institute of Science (2012-2018)

Research Focus
Dr. Acar’s primary research focuses on microbial biotechnology, food microbiology, and environmental biotechnology. He is particularly interested in the enzymatic activity of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, microbial biofilms, and the application of non-thermal plasma and ozone for pathogen inactivation in food safety. His work contributes to the development of innovative biotechnological applications in food preservation and environmental remediation.

Experience
Dr. Acar has extensive academic experience, currently serving as a faculty member at Gazi University, where he has held various roles from Lecturer to Assistant Professor. His teaching experience includes courses in microbial taxonomy, bacterial world, and applications of plasma technology. His research has been published in numerous high-impact journals, and he has supervised multiple postgraduate theses.

Research Timeline
Dr. Acar’s research timeline spans from his doctoral thesis, which focused on environmental remediation through biosorption and bioremediation, to his recent work on food safety using plasma technologies. His research has led to the development of several national and international collaborations and research projects, which aim to address contemporary issues in biotechnology, such as antimicrobial resistance and sustainable food production.

Awards & Honors
Dr. Acar has received several recognitions, including national research grants from Gazi University and TÜBİTAK. His work in the field of biotechnology has been acknowledged through awards for his contributions to microbial biotechnology and his innovative research on food safety and environmental biotechnology. He has also been invited to present at numerous international scientific conferences.

Top-Noted Publication
One of Dr. Acar’s highly regarded publications is “Biogenic-synthesized silver nanoparticles using the Ligilactobacillus salivarius KC27L postbiotic: Antimicrobial, anti-biofilm, and antioxidant activity and cytotoxic effects,” published in Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins (2025). This paper presents the novel use of biogenic silver nanoparticles in antimicrobial and anti-biofilm applications, showcasing his innovative contributions to the field of microbial biotechnology.

  • Biogenic-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using the Ligilactobacillus salivarius KC27L Postbiotic: Antimicrobial, Anti-Biofilm, and Antioxidant Activity and Cytotoxic Effects
    Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins (2025-02-26)
    DOI: 10.1007/s12602-025-10481-x
    This paper explores the biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Ligilactobacillus salivarius KC27L postbiotics, detailing their antimicrobial, anti-biofilm, antioxidant, and cytotoxic effects. The research contributes significantly to the development of novel antimicrobial agents in biotechnology, particularly in the context of combating biofilm-related infections.
    Contributors: Zehranur Yuksekdag, Reyhan Kilickaya, Filiz Kara, Berat Cinar Acar.

  • Pichia kudriavzevii (JD2) Immobilized on Acid Activated Perlite as a Biosorbent for Solid Phase Extraction of Cr(III) Determination by AAS (Atomic Adsorption Spectroscopy)
    Microscopy Research and Technique (2025-02-11)
    DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24815
    This research investigates the use of Pichia kudriavzevii (JD2) immobilized on acid-activated perlite for the biosorption and extraction of chromium(III) from solutions, offering an efficient method for heavy metal analysis in environmental biotechnology.
    Contributors: Aliya Amanzhol, Özcan Yalçınkaya, Berat Çinar Acar, Zehranur Yuksekdag.

  • Determination of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Cell-Free Supernatant (CFSKC27L) and Exopolysaccharide (EPSKC27L) obtained from Ligilactobacillus salivarius KC27L
    Tekirdağ Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi (2024-09-20)
    DOI: 10.33462/jotaf.1370839
    This article provides an in-depth analysis of the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the cell-free supernatant and exopolysaccharide obtained from Ligilactobacillus salivarius KC27L, highlighting their potential applications in food biotechnology and health.
    Contributors: Kübra Çelik, Zehranur Yuksekdag, Berat Çınar Acar, Filiz Kara.

  • Diş Hekimliği Uygulamalarında Soğuk Atmosferik Plazma (CAP)
    Acta Odontologica Turcica (2024-09-04)
    DOI: 10.17214/gaziaot.1294782
    This study evaluates the use of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) in dental applications, exploring its efficacy in sterilization, wound healing, and bacterial inactivation, particularly in dental treatments.
    Contributors: Berat Çınar Acar, Zehranur Yuksekdag, Elif Açar, Tuğba Şahin, Hazer Yüksekdağ.

  • Evaluation of Ozone Effectiveness Against Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Pathogens Using Different Methods
    Mustafa Kemal Üniversitesi Tarım Bilimleri Dergisi (2024-08-12)
    DOI: 10.37908/mkutbd.1437244
    This publication investigates the effectiveness of ozone as a disinfectant against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens, assessing its potential for use in food safety and environmental sanitation.
    Contributors: Berat Çınar Acar.

Yimin Zhu, Biology, Female Researcher Award

Prof. Yimin Zhu: Professor at SINANO, CAS, China

Zhu Yimin is a highly regarded researcher and Director at the Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. She has made significant contributions to the fields of nanomedicine, tumor immunotherapy, and advanced nano-delivery systems. Her innovative research has led to breakthroughs in the design of peptide-based therapies for cancer and the development of intelligent biomaterials for targeted drug delivery. She has authored over 40 high-impact publications and holds more than 10 patents, reflecting her commitment to advancing biomedical science.

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Scopus Profile

Research Metrics:

  • Citations: 1,533 citations across 1,493 documents
  • Publications: 40 documents
  • h-index: 19

Prof. Yimin Zhu is a leading researcher specializing in biomedicine, nanotechnology, and tumor immunotherapy. Her work focuses on developing advanced nano-delivery systems, functional peptide screening platforms, and innovative biotechnology applications. Prof. Zhu has contributed extensively to the scientific community through her research, publications, and patents.

Education

Dr. Zhu earned her master’s degree in clinical medicine through a rigorous seven-year program at Tianjin Medical University, graduating in 1996. She then pursued a PhD in Biochemistry at the National University of Singapore, where she conducted groundbreaking research on cellular signaling and nano-bio interactions. She submitted her doctoral thesis in 2004 and officially received her degree in 2005, marking the beginning of her journey in nanotechnology and biomedical sciences.

Research Focus

Dr. Zhu’s research focuses on integrating nanotechnology with biomedicine to address critical healthcare challenges. Her work includes developing functional peptide screening platforms, creating intelligent composite nano-delivery systems, and advancing tumor immunotherapy. By leveraging the unique properties of nanomaterials, she has contributed to breakthroughs in cancer treatment and immunotherapy, including the design of peptide-based CAR T cells and PD-1 blockade therapies.

Experience

With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. Zhu has balanced clinical, academic, and industrial research roles. She began as a neurologist in Tianjin, transitioned to biochemistry research during her PhD studies in Singapore, and conducted postdoctoral research in chemical engineering at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Since 2008, she has been leading key projects at the Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, where she also heads the Ethics Committee and the Animal Management Committee.

Research Timeline

  • 1996–2004: Transitioned from clinical medicine to biochemical research during her master’s and PhD studies.
  • 2005–2008: Conducted postdoctoral research in chemical engineering at the University of California, Santa Barbara, focusing on nano-biomaterials.
  • 2008–Present: Leads groundbreaking research on nanotechnology and biomedicine at the Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, heading multiple national and international collaborative projects.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Zhu has received numerous accolades for her innovative contributions, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation and the Jiangsu Provincial Social Development Project. Her work has been recognized with awards for excellence in research and innovation in nanomedicine. She is also a recipient of institutional honors for her leadership in advancing biomedical technologies.

Top-Noted Publications

Dr. Zhu has authored several influential papers, including:

The peptide-based bispecific CAR T cells target EGFR and tumor stroma for effective cancer therapy

Authors: Liu, C., Wang, Q., Li, L., … Zhang, Y., Zhu, Y.

Journal: International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2024, Vol. 663, Article 124558

Citations: 1

Develop a PD-1-blockade peptide to reinvigorate T-cell activity and inhibit tumor progress

Authors: Qin, Y., Meng, X., Li, L., … Huang, Y., Zhu, Y.

Journal: European Journal of Pharmacology, 2023, Vol. 960, Article 176144

Citations: 0

Natural killer cells contribute to ‘hot’ tumor regression in the allergic inflammatory environment

Authors: Zhou, Y., Li, L., Zhou, D., … Zhu, Y., Cui, Y.

Journal: International Immunopharmacology, 2023, Vol. 123, Article 110760

Citations: 1

Identification of cancer protein biomarker based on cell-specific peptide and its potential role in predicting tumor metastasis

Authors: Li, L., Liu, C., Qin, Y., … Wang, Q., Zhu, Y.

Journal: Journal of Proteomics, 2023, Vol. 275, Article 104826

Citations: 3

Extracellular Vesicle‐Based Nanodrug Delivery (Book Chapter)

Authors: Yin, W., Pham, C.V., Patel, S., … Zhu, Y., Duan, W.

Book: Supramolecular Nanotechnology: Advanced Design of Self-Assembled Functional Materials, Volumes 1-3, 2023, Vol. 2, pp. 667–688

Citations: 1

Prof. Zhu’s work spans key advancements in cancer immunotherapy, tumor biology, and nanotechnology-based drug delivery, making significant contributions to biopharmaceutical research and applications.

Jinyao Liu, Biology, Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jinyao Liu: Yamaguchi University, Japan

Dr. Jinyao Liu is a distinguished lecturer at Yamaguchi University, Japan, known for his groundbreaking research on the effects of alcohol consumption and dietary imbalances on metabolic and cardiovascular health. He has made significant contributions to understanding metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and non-obese MASH. Dr. Liu’s development of innovative mouse models exhibiting liver fibrosis, cardiac dysfunction, and sudden cardiac death has provided valuable insights into the interplay between hepatic and cardiac sympathetic activation. His work has paved the way for novel treatment strategies addressing MASH and its systemic complications, including arteriosclerosis, chronic kidney disease, and sudden cardiac death.

Online Profiles

ORCID Profile

Dr. Liu actively shares his research contributions on several academic platforms, including ORCID, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar. These profiles feature his published works, ongoing projects, and collaborations, offering a comprehensive view of his expertise in hepatology and cardiology.

Education

Dr. Liu received his M.D. and Ph.D. from Yamaguchi University in 2003. His advanced academic training equipped him with the skills and knowledge to explore complex metabolic and cardiovascular conditions, establishing a strong foundation for his research career.

Research Focus

Dr. Liu’s primary research focus lies in unraveling the mechanisms of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases triggered by alcohol consumption and dietary patterns. His work has highlighted the role of atherogenic diets, such as low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets, and high-fat/high-cholesterol diets, in exacerbating MASH and its complications. By investigating the hepatic and cardiac sympathetic activation pathways, he has uncovered critical links between liver and heart health, contributing to the development of targeted therapies for systemic diseases.

Experience

Dr. Liu has over two decades of experience in experimental research, specializing in the development of mouse models that mimic human metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. His models have been instrumental in demonstrating the systemic effects of alcohol and diet-induced hepatic conditions, particularly their impact on cardiac function, sudden cardiac death, and advanced arteriosclerosis. His research bridges basic science with clinical applications, aiming to improve patient outcomes in hepatology and cardiology.

Research Timeline

Dr. Liu’s research journey began in 2003 with investigations into the health impacts of dietary imbalances. Between 2011 and 2018, he developed advanced mouse models that exhibited MASH and its extrahepatic complications. From 2019 onward, his work has focused on translating these findings into therapeutic strategies, addressing the systemic effects of MASH and related cardiovascular and renal conditions.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Liu has been recognized for his contributions to medical research with prestigious awards, including the Excellence in Medical Research Award from Yamaguchi University in 2010 and the Best Paper Award in Hepatology from the Japanese Society of Gastroenterology in 2018. These accolades reflect his dedication to advancing the fields of hepatology and cardiology.

Top-Noted Publications

Dr. Liu has authored numerous high-impact publications in leading journals. Notable works include his study on MASH mouse models published in the Journal of Hepatology, and his research on hepatic and cardiac sympathetic activation featured in Cardiovascular Research. His publications on dietary impacts, liver fibrosis, and sudden cardiac death have contributed significantly to understanding and managing metabolic diseases. These studies are widely cited, underscoring their importance in the medical research community.

Lethal Arrhythmogenic Role of Left Ventricular Myocardial Interstitial Fibrosis in Apolipoprotein E/Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Double-Knockout Mice with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Published: December 27, 2024

DOI: 10.3390/ijms26010144

Contributors: Jinyao Liu, Yumiko Oba, Yosuke Kondo, Ryo Nakaki, Seiko Yamano

This study elucidates the arrhythmogenic effects of myocardial interstitial fibrosis in MASH mouse models, providing critical insights into the cardiac complications associated with liver diseases.

Chronic Ethanol Consumption Plus an Atherogenic Diet Cause Metabolic Steatohepatitis with Advanced Liver Fibrosis in Apolipoprotein E/Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Double-Knockout Mice

Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research

Published: July 2022

DOI: 10.1111/acer.14852

Contributors: Jinyao Liu, Yumiko Oba, Seiko Yamano

This publication explores the combined impact of alcohol and atherogenic diets on liver health, revealing pathways leading to advanced fibrosis and metabolic dysfunction.

Alcohol Consumption Combined with Dietary Low-Carbohydrate/High-Protein Intake Increased the Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction Risk and Lethal Ventricular Arrhythmia Susceptibility in Apolipoprotein E/Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Double-Knockout Mice

Alcohol

Published: December 2020

DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2020.07.003

Contributors: Jinyao Liu

This study highlights the heightened risks of cardiac dysfunction and lethal arrhythmias caused by the interaction of alcohol and specific dietary patterns in mouse models.

Alcohol Consumption in Combination with an Atherogenic Diet Increased Indices of Atherosclerosis in Apolipoprotein E/Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Double-Knockout Mice

Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research

Published: February 2019

DOI: 10.1111/acer.13925

Contributors: Yuzo Furuta, Jinyao Liu, Ayako Himemiya-Hakucho, Koichi Yoshimura, Tatsuya Fujimiya

This research demonstrates the exacerbation of atherosclerosis indices under combined alcohol and atherogenic diet exposure, offering insights into cardiovascular risks.

Effect of Alcohol Sensitivity in Healthy Young Adults on Breath Pharmacokinetics of Acetaldehyde After Mouth Washing with Alcohol

Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research

Published: November 2018

DOI: 10.1111/acer.13878

Contributors: Ayako Himemiya-Hakucho, Tsubasa Tanaka, Jinyao Liu, Tatsuya Fujimiya

This study investigates the pharmacokinetics of acetaldehyde in relation to alcohol sensitivity, providing a foundation for understanding alcohol’s effects on metabolic pathways.

Vinícius Urbano, Biology, Young Researcher Award

Prof. Vinícius Urbano: Master Student at UFLA, Brazil

Dr. Shuangyin Zhang’s innovative work focuses on utilizing cutting-edge technologies like hyperspectral imaging and deep learning for sustainable environmental solutions. His research addresses critical challenges such as carbon neutrality assessments, water resource management, and agricultural pollution control, earning him a prominent role in academia and industry.

Online Profiles

Scopus Profile

Vinícius De Andrade Urbano is affiliated with the Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, Brazil, where he contributes to advancing academic research. With an h-index of 1, his work has garnered citations from three documents across five publications, showcasing his growing impact in his field. Urbano is actively building his research profile, integrating his expertise through platforms like ORCID and Mendeley for broader academic recognition and collaboration.

Education

With a Ph.D. from Wuhan University in Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, Dr. Zhang combined rigorous academic training with real-world problem-solving. His Master’s in Surveying and Mapping Engineering and undergraduate studies in Cartography further solidified his expertise in geospatial technology and environmental systems.

Research Focus

Dr. Zhang’s research portfolio spans diverse areas, including carbon sequestration in wetlands, rapid water depth assessment under extreme climatic events, and the use of hyperspectral imaging to detect and manage heavy metal contamination in agriculture. His multidisciplinary approach drives impactful solutions.

Experience

In his leadership role at the Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute, Dr. Zhang oversees large-scale projects that integrate advanced geospatial methodologies with practical applications. His efforts in carbon storage and contamination monitoring have been pivotal in shaping sustainable resource management practices.

Research Timeline

Recent research highlights include his groundbreaking study from 2023–2026 on carbon neutrality in the Three Gorges Reservoir. During 2021–2024, he focused on developing hyperspectral imaging techniques for agricultural contamination, building on his doctoral research (2018–2022) in geospatial modeling and environmental monitoring.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Zhang’s accolades underscore his academic and professional excellence. Recognitions like the Yugang·Songxiao Scholarship, the Outstanding Graduate Award at Wuhan University, and multiple scholarships for academic distinction are a testament to his dedication and achievements.

Top-Noted Publications

Among Dr. Zhang’s notable works, “Rapid Water Depth Monitoring Using Deep Learning” (Remote Sensing, 2024) and “Heavy Metal Stress Detection in Rice Canopies” (Sensors, 2019) stand out for their methodological innovations and practical impact on environmental sustainability.

  • Anthropogenic Land Uses Lead to Changes in Limnological Variables in Neotropical Streams
    Co-authored with B.B. Contieri, J. Rosa, M.M.R. Scoarize, and E. Benedito, this 2024 article, published in Environmental Monitoring and Assessment (196(8), 702), examines how human activities influence key limnological parameters in Neotropical stream ecosystems.
    Citations: 1
  • Determinant Variables on the Isotopic Values of Particulate Organic Matter in a Neotropical Floodplain
    Published in Journal of Oceanology and Limnology (2024, 42(4), pp. 1173–1185), this work explores isotopic shifts in particulate organic matter within floodplain environments. Co-authors include G. Henrique Zaia Alves, M. Maximilian Ratz Scoarize, and M. da Silva Caetano.
  • Dams and Agricultural Lands Affect Energy Sources and the Trophic Position of Fish in a Floodplain
    This open-access article, featured in Neotropical Ichthyology (2024, 22(3), e230084), investigates the dual impacts of dam construction and agricultural practices on fish ecology in floodplain habitats. It was co-authored with D. Delanira-Santos, M.M.R. Scoarize, and E. Benedito.
  • Diet-Tissue Discrimination Factors of Three Neotropical Freshwater Fishes and a Comparison of the Trophic Position
    Featured in Journal of Limnology (2023, 82), this study provides insights into the trophic dynamics of Neotropical freshwater fish species. The article was co-authored with G.I. Manetta, M.M.R. Scoarize, D. Delanira-Santos, and E. Benedito.
    Citations: 1
  • The Role of Cladocerans in Green and Brown Food Web Coupling
    Published in Iheringia – Série Zoologia (2022, 112, e2022022), this open-access article examines the ecological significance of cladocerans in linking green and brown food webs. Co-authored with D. Delanira-Santos and E. Benedito.
    Citations: 2