Shohei Katsuya | Biology and Life Sciences | Excellence in Research Award

Mr. Shohei Katsuya | Biology and Life Sciences | Excellence in Research Award

OSAKA GAS Co., Ltd. | Japan

Mr. Shohei Katsuya is a dedicated Researcher at the Advanced Technology Research Institute of Osaka Gas Co., Ltd., where he has been contributing to cutting-edge scientific advancements since April 2021. He holds a Master of Agriculture degree from Kyoto University, earned in March 2021, and has since developed a strong research focus on the physiological functions of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). His work revolves around understanding how BHB influences metabolic regulation, ketone body pathways, and physiological responses related to obesity and visceral fat accumulation. As metabolic disorders continue to rise globally, his research addresses critical scientific questions with direct implications for human health, nutrition, and disease prevention. Shohei has played an active role in developing nutritional strategies aimed at improving metabolic outcomes, collaborating with academic institutions, and supporting multidisciplinary projects that advance metabolic health science. Between 2023 and 2025, Shohei has authored five peer-reviewed publications in reputable international journals, including Obesities, Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, and Nutrition. These publications collectively reflect his commitment to scientific rigor and his growing influence in the fields of nutritional science and metabolic physiology. His research output has received 18 citations to date, according to Scopus metrics (as of November 2025), and his current h-index of 2 indicates early yet solid scholarly impact within a short timeframe. His contributions provide valuable insights into ketone-body-driven metabolic pathways, opening possibilities for new therapeutic and dietary approaches. Shohei’s research activities align strongly with the mission of advancing evidence-based nutrition and metabolic science, demonstrating originality, societal relevance, and a high level of research integrity. His projects emphasize translational potential—particularly in dietary interventions for visceral fat reduction—and reflect an understanding of both biochemical mechanisms and practical applications for health improvement. Through continuous collaboration with academic partners, Shohei has strengthened his ability to transform scientific concepts into meaningful innovations that address modern health challenges. His commitment to excellence, ethical research practice, and impactful scientific contribution make him a strong candidate for the Excellence in Research Award. Shohei declares that all information provided in this application is accurate and authentic to the best of his knowledge, and he remains fully committed to upholding the values and standards of the International Research Awards.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Aisyah, R., Katsuya, S., Miyata, K., Chen, Z., Horii, M., Kudo, A., Kumrungsee, T., Tsubota, J., & Yanaka, N. (2025). β-hydroxybutyrate attenuates diabetic renal and muscular pathologies in a streptozotocin-induced diabetic model. Nutrition, 112792. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nut.2025.112792

Katsuya, S., Kawata, Y., Kawamura, Y., Kawamura, J., & Tsubota, J. (2025). Effect of d-β-hydroxybutyrate on sleep quality in healthy participants: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. https://doi.org/10.1093/bbb/zbaf017

Katsuya, S., Kawata, Y., Sugimoto, M., Nishimura, T., & Tsubota, J. (2024). Determination of the safety of Halomonas sp. KM-1-derived d-β-hydroxybutyric acid and its fermentation-derived impurities in mice and Japanese adults. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. https://doi.org/10.1093/bbb/zbae088

Ip, C.-H., Higuchi, H., Wu, C.-Y., Okuda, T., Katsuya, S., Ogawa, J., & Ando, A. (2024). Production of docosahexaenoic acid by a novel isolated Aurantiochytrium sp. 6-2 using fermented defatted soybean as a nitrogen source for sustainable fish feed development. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. https://doi.org/10.1093/bbb/zbae035

Katsuya, S., Kawata, Y., Goto, T., & Tsubota, J. (2023). Daily intake of D-β-hydroxybutyric acid (D-BHB) reduces body fat in Japanese adult participants: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, 69(2), 121–129. https://doi.org/10.3177/jnsv.69.121

Yujie Guo | Genomics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yujie Guo | Genomics | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Yujie Guo, Henan Agricultural University, China

Dr. Yujie Guo is a Supervisor at Henan Agricultural University, China, specializing in poultry genetics. Her research focuses on uncovering molecular mechanisms and advantageous genes in indigenous chicken breeds, especially under stress conditions. Her doctoral work on Gushi chickens’ immune response under stress led to over 10 publications in high-impact journals such as Genes, Molecular Immunology, and Journal of Proteomics, and earned her a national invention patent. With 4 research projects completed, 53 citations, and significant contributions to epigenetic regulation and heat tolerance breeding strategies, she is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yujie Guo began her academic journey with a deep-seated interest in animal science, particularly the genetic and physiological aspects of poultry. Her early education was marked by a persistent curiosity about how genetics influence performance traits in animals. This passion led her to pursue doctoral studies focused on poultry science, where she honed her expertise in molecular genetics and immunology. During her Ph.D., she meticulously investigated the regulatory mechanisms behind stress-induced immune responses in Gushi chickens—an indigenous breed known for its resilience and adaptability. Her academic training laid a solid foundation for a career centered on translational research with real-world implications for poultry health and breeding.

👩‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

As a Supervisor at Henan Agricultural University, Dr. Guo plays a multifaceted role encompassing research, mentorship, and academic leadership. In her professional capacity, she oversees advanced research projects that bridge molecular biology and animal husbandry. Her supervision goes beyond administrative tasks—she actively participates in the experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific writing processes of numerous research initiatives.

Dr. Guo has successfully led and contributed to four major research projects, each delving into the genetic architecture and epigenetic regulation of key traits in indigenous chickens. Her work has directly contributed to a deeper understanding of how stress, particularly heat stress, affects poultry at a molecular level, enabling the development of targeted strategies for improving heat tolerance in commercial breeds.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Guo’s research is at the cutting edge of avian molecular genetics. Her central focus lies in identifying and utilizing advantageous genes in indigenous chicken breeds—a field that holds tremendous promise for enhancing global food security. By targeting breeds that are naturally resistant to harsh environments, she is helping to lay the groundwork for more sustainable poultry farming practices.

Her doctoral research broke new ground in understanding immune modulation under stress, specifically in Gushi chickens. This work has been instrumental in elucidating how certain genes are regulated under thermal stress, leading to enhanced immunity and survival. These findings not only support the theoretical framework of epigenetic regulation in poultry but also provide practical solutions for breeding programs aimed at increasing heat tolerance.

To date, Dr. Guo has authored more than 10 peer-reviewed articles published in internationally recognized journals like Genes, Molecular Immunology, Journal of Proteomics, and Research in Veterinary Science. Her scholarly output reflects a consistent focus on innovative genetic methodologies and practical breeding solutions.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Guo’s contributions to poultry science have not gone unnoticed. Her research has earned her a national invention patent, a testament to the originality and applicability of her work. With a citation index of 53, her research has begun to influence ongoing studies in molecular poultry science across China and beyond.

Although still early in her career, her work has received commendation for its relevance and scientific rigor. She has become a respected figure in her field, known for her detailed approach, clarity of thought, and unwavering commitment to scientific excellence.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Guo’s work holds immense importance in the face of global challenges such as climate change and food insecurity. Her research into heat stress resistance has implications not just for China but for poultry industries worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.

Her findings have offered actionable insights into the genetic markers associated with stress tolerance, making it easier for breeders and agricultural scientists to develop robust poultry lines. Moreover, her research contributes to the global discourse on sustainable agriculture and animal welfare, positioning her as an emerging thought leader in the field.

🕊️ Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Dr. Yujie Guo aims to expand her research scope by engaging in international collaborations and integrating cutting-edge technologies like CRISPR gene editing and multi-omics approaches. She envisions a future where poultry breeding is fully optimized for both productivity and adaptability, ensuring food sustainability even under extreme environmental conditions.

Her long-term goal is to establish a center of excellence in avian genetics at Henan Agricultural University, where young scientists can be mentored and new breeding technologies can be developed. Through her work, Dr. Guo hopes to leave a legacy of innovation, sustainability, and academic integrity.

📖 Publication Top Notes

Author: Z., Luo, Zhixuan, Y., Gong, Yujie, Q., Li, Qiang, X., Kang, Xiangtao, R., Jiang, Ruirui

Journal: Poultry science

Year: 2025

Author: J., Zhang, Jun, Y., Gong, Yujie, Y., Zhu, Yidan, Z., Li, Zhuanjian, R., Jiang, Ruirui

Journal: Poultry science

Year: 2025

Author: J., Li, Jianzeng, X., Liu, Xinxin, C., Cai, Chunxia, X., Kang, Xiangtao, R., Han, Ruili

Journal: Poultry science

Year: 2024