Di Wen | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Di Wen | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Di Wen | The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University | China

Dr. Di Wen, a dedicated neurologist at the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, specializes in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Her research focuses on gene therapy, autophagy, and mitochondrial protection, with significant findings on the role of OPTN in regulating autophagy and mitophagy. She has contributed to multiple high-impact SCI-indexed publications and leads projects funded by the Hebei Natural Science Foundation. As a member of professional medical committees, Dr. Wen’s work advances therapeutic strategies for ALS, aiming to translate laboratory discoveries into effective clinical interventions that improve patient outcomes.

Author Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Di Wen’s journey into the world of neuroscience began with a strong academic foundation rooted in medical sciences, leading to her specialization in neurology. From the early stages of her education, she displayed a keen interest in understanding the complexities of the human nervous system, with a particular focus on neurodegenerative disorders. Her academic path was characterized by rigorous training, in-depth research engagements, and a determination to explore the molecular and cellular underpinnings of diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). During her early career, she cultivated expertise in advanced research methodologies, live-cell imaging techniques, and genetic intervention strategies, all of which laid the groundwork for her future breakthroughs in gene therapy and mitochondrial biology.

Experience

As a neurologist at the Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Dr. Wen has combined clinical practice with high-level research. Her role bridges patient care and scientific discovery, ensuring that her laboratory findings are guided by real-world medical needs. Beyond her clinical duties, she actively engages in research projects funded by the Hebei Natural Science Foundation (Project Code: H2021206048), where she leads investigations into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying ALS. Dr. Wen also collaborates extensively with multidisciplinary teams, including molecular biologists, geneticists, and pharmacologists, to accelerate the translation of benchside discoveries into bedside therapies. Her professional trajectory demonstrates a rare balance of medical excellence and scientific innovation.

Research Focus

Dr. Wen’s research is centered on neurodegenerative diseases, with a primary emphasis on ALS, a condition marked by progressive motor neuron degeneration leading to paralysis. Her landmark studies have shed light on the role of the OPTN gene in regulating autophagy and mitophagy—two crucial cellular processes involved in maintaining neuronal health. Using advanced genetic tools such as LV-sgRNA-OPTN and confocal live-cell imaging, she demonstrated how loss of OPTN impairs mitochondrial function, decreases autophagic flux, and increases oxidative stress in neuronal cells. Her work extends beyond cellular models, exploring gene therapy interventions in SOD1-G93A transgenic mice, where she has shown that enhancing autophagy pathways can protect mitochondria and potentially slow ALS progression. In parallel, Dr. Wen has contributed to research on insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) as a neuroprotective agent, identifying its role in mitochondrial preservation and apoptosis inhibition. Her prolific publication record in high-impact journals like The FEBS Journal and Brain Research Bulletin underscores the depth and significance of her contributions to the global ALS research community.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Wen’s dedication to advancing neurological research has been recognized through multiple scientific publications indexed in SCI and other reputable databases. Her papers, some of which have achieved high citation counts, reflect both her innovative approach and her influence in the field of neurobiology. She holds professional memberships in the Sleep and Mood Disorders Professional Committee of Hebei Geriatric Association and the Young Physicians Committee of Hebei Medical Association, affirming her active engagement in professional and academic communities. These affiliations enable her to contribute to collaborative research networks and participate in shaping clinical and research agendas at regional and national levels.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. Wen’s work extends beyond the laboratory, influencing both clinical strategies and future research directions for ALS and related neurodegenerative disorders. By elucidating the molecular mechanisms behind impaired autophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction, she has opened new therapeutic avenues for slowing disease progression. Her studies on gene therapy interventions have the potential to revolutionize treatment protocols, offering hope to patients and their families. Furthermore, her research fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration, encouraging the integration of neurology, genetics, and molecular biology in tackling complex neurological conditions.

Publications

OPTN gene therapy increases autophagy and protects mitochondria in SOD1‐G93A‐expressing transgenic mice and cells.

Author:Wen D; Ji Y; Yuanyuan Li; Duan W; Wang Y; Li Z; Tao M; Li Y
Journal: The FEBS Journal
Year:  2024

The role of insulin-like growth factor 1 in ALS cell and mouse models: A mitochondrial protector.

Author: Wen D; Cui C; Duan W; Wang W; Wang Y; Liu Y; Li Z; Li C
Journal: Brain Research Bulletin
Year: 2019

Systemic administration of scAAV9-IGF1 extends survival in SOD1G93A ALS mice via inhibiting p38 MAPK and the JNK-mediated apoptosis pathway.

Author: Wang W; Wen D; Duan W; Yin J ; Cui C; Wang Y; Liu Y; Li C
Journal: Brain Research Bulletin
Year: 2017

TBK1 is involved in M-CSF-induced macrophage polarization through mediating the IRF5/IRF4 axis.

Author: Li Y, Ji L, Liu C, Li J, Wen D, Li Z , Yu L, Guo M, Zhang S, Duan W , Yi L, Y. Bi Y, Bu H, Li C and Liu Y
Journal:The FEBS Journal
Year: 2024

Intrathecal Delivery of ssAAV9-DAO Extends Survival in SOD1G93A ALS Mice.

Author: Wang W, Duan W, Wang Y, Wen D, Liu Y, Li Z, Hu H, Cui H, Cui C, Lin H, Li C
Journal: Neurochem Research
Year: 2017

Conclusion

Dr. Di Wen, of The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, stands as a dedicated clinician–scientist whose work seamlessly bridges advanced research and compassionate patient care. Through her pioneering studies on autophagy, mitophagy, and gene therapy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, she has significantly advanced the understanding of disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies. Her contributions, reflected in high-impact publications, professional leadership roles, and collaborative projects, underscore her influence in the neurological research community. With a clear vision for future innovations in personalized neurotherapies, Dr. Wen continues to inspire progress toward effective treatments for complex neurodegenerative diseases.

Gina Martin | Neuroscience | Excellence in Innovation

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Gina Martin | Neuroscience | Excellence in Innovation

Dr Gina Martin, University of Wisconsin Whitewater, United States

Dr. Gina Martin is an Assistant Professor in Counselor Education & Supervision at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. She earned her Ph.D. from The University of Iowa (2021) with a dissertation on childhood adversity and emotional dysregulation. With an M.A. from The Family Institute at Northwestern University (2017) and a B.A. from Pepperdine University (2013), she is a licensed counselor in Wisconsin and Illinois and a National Certified Counselor. Her teaching spans foundational and advanced counseling courses, with notable contributions to course development and international education. Dr. Martin’s research includes innovative CBT methods and somatic experiencing clinical trials. 🌟📚🧠

Publication profile

Google scholar

Education

Dr. Gina Martin earned a Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision from The University of Iowa in 2021, focusing on “Adverse Childhood Experiences and Emotional Dysregulation: Frontal Alpha Asymmetry Exploratory Study” 🧠📚. Prior to this, they completed an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The Family Institute at Northwestern University in 2017, where they honed their counseling skills 🗣️❤️. They began their academic journey with a B.A. in English from Pepperdine University in 2013, setting a strong foundation for their professional career 📖🌟. Their diverse educational background underscores a commitment to understanding and supporting mental health.

Experience

Dr. Gina Martin is an Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater since 2021, teaching diverse counseling courses such as Foundations, Lifespan Development, and Marriage & Family Counseling. They also serve on various committees and took on Program Coordinator duties in Fall 2022. In Summer 2024, Dr. [Name] led an immersive international course in Scotland. Previously, they rebuilt and developed courses at The Family Institute at Northwestern University, including asynchronous materials and creative content. As an Adjunct Instructor, they taught and developed courses on clinical practice and psychopathology, and supervised clinical practicums. 🌍📚🎓

Presentations

Dr. G.C. Martin is a prominent figure in counseling and neuroscience, with a focus on military sexual trauma and innovative therapy methods. In October 2024, Martin will present on “Personal Guiding Theory Development” and “Military Sexual Trauma and nCBT” at NCACES Chicago, and on clinical supervision at WACES Tucson. Earlier in 2024, Martin spoke on neuroscience-informed CBT at the Summer Symposium and AMHCA Charlotte. Past presentations include novel eye-movement protocols at ACES Denver and trauma-informed supervision at ACES Seattle. Martin’s work bridges neuroscience with practical counseling, contributing significantly to the field. 🧠💬🎤

Awards

Award-winning educator with notable recognitions, including the UW Whitewater Graduate Teaching Award (May 2024) 🏆. Nominated multiple times for COEPS Outstanding Advising Award (May 2023, January 2024) and COEPS McClellan Endowed Teacher of Distinction Award (May 2023, January 2024) 🌟. Honored with the Outstanding Supervisor Award from NCACES (October 2022) and a finalist for the Dissertation Excellence Award, The Professional Counselor, NBCC (April 2022) 📚. Received the Audrey Qualls Travel Grant Award and Graduate College Student Research Award (2019) 🌍. Selected for the DARE to Discover Research Banner (January 2020) 🏅.

research focus

A practitioner’s guide to breathwork in clinical mental health counseling

Health outcomes following childhood maltreatment: an examination of the biopsychosocial model

Trauma-Informed Supervision Experiences: A Preliminary Phenomenological Study.

Couple conflict and music utilisation

The Eyes and Emotion Regulation: Helpful Tips for Counselors

Eye movements and emotions: Efficacy of novel eye‐movement protocol Tholáge

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Emotional Dysregulation: Frontal Alpha Asymmetry Exploratory Study

 

Maha Gasmi | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Maha Gasmi | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Manouba University, Tunisia.

Dr. Maha Gasmi is a dedicated research scientist with a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences Applied to Physical Activities and Sports from the University of Manouba, Tunisia. Her research focuses on the intricate relationships between physical activity, nutrition, and human behavior, particularly the effects of time-restricted eating on health biomarkers. As an Assistant Professor at the Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Ksar Said, she has taught various subjects, including Neuroscience, Muscle Strengthening Techniques, Physiology, Anatomy, and Exercise Physiology. Dr. Gasmi’s professional strengths lie in proficient project design and management, data analysis and interpretation, and the creation and deployment of research tools. She is recognized for her significant contributions to the field, having received the Experienced Reviewer Award from Taylor & Francis and the Award for Nutrition and Metabolism from the John M. Kinney Nestlé Nutrition and Elsevier Sciences. Dr. Gasmi is also skilled in a wide range of laboratory techniques and statistical analysis, making her a versatile and accomplished researcher.

Professional Profiles:

Education 🎓

Dr. Maha Gasmi earned her Ph.D. in Biological Sciences Applied to Physical Activities and Sports with a focus on Sport Biology from the University of Manouba, Tunisia, at the Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Ksar Said in 2021. Her research topic was centered on the effect of time-restricted eating on biochemical, immunological, psychological parameters, and physical performance, with a particular emphasis on the impact of advancing age. In 2020, she participated as an exchange student in the program of Human Kinesiology and Science at Beijing Sport University, China. Dr. Gasmi also holds a Master’s degree in Biology, specializing in Fundamental and Applied Immunology, from the College of Sciences at El Manar University, Tunisia, obtained in 2014. Her master’s research focused on the production and characterization of Glycoprotein G Multiepitope Recombinant Rabies Virus. Prior to that, she completed her Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology, Cell, and Biotechnology at the College of Sciences, El Manar University, Tunisia, in 2011.

Professional Experience

Dr. Maha Gasmi is currently serving as an Assistant Professor on contract at the Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Ksar Said, University of Manouba, Tunisia, since September 2023, where she teaches Neuroscience and Techniques of Muscle Strengthening. Prior to this, she held similar positions at the same institute, teaching Physiology and Exercise Physiology from September to December 2022, and General Anatomy, Functional Anatomy, and Exercise Physiology from September 2020 to December 2021. She also taught General Anatomy and Functional Anatomy from January to June 2019. Dr. Gasmi has been actively involved in a research project at the Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Ksar Said, University of Manouba, Tunisia, from 2021 to 2024, investigating the impact of judo training on bone mass parameters in adolescent boys. Her responsibilities include data collection, analysis, and collaboration with the research team to assess the effects of judo training on bone health.

🔬 Research Interest

Dr. Maha Gasmi’s research interests lie at the intersection of physical activity, nutrition, and human behavior. She is particularly focused on understanding how physical activity and nutrition influence physiological and psychological parameters. Her current research explores the impact of time-restricted eating on various health biomarkers, including its effects on muscle damage, body composition, lipid profiles, and physical performance in different age groups. Additionally, she investigates the role of physical activity in counteracting age-related immunological decline and its potential benefits for bone health through sports like judo. Dr. Gasmi is also interested in the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of medicinal plants and their potential applications in enhancing health and preventing diseases.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Maha Gasmi has received notable recognition for her contributions to the field of nutrition and metabolism. In 2023, she was honored with the Experienced Reviewer Award from Taylor & Francis, acknowledging her expertise and dedication to academic peer review. Additionally, in 2019, she received the prestigious Award for Nutrition and Metabolism from the John M. Kinney Nestlé Nutrition and Elsevier Sciences, which highlights her significant impact and advancements in her field of research.

🧪 Research Skills

Dr. Maha Gasmi possesses a diverse set of research skills that enable her to effectively design, manage, and execute scientific studies. She is proficient in various laboratory techniques, including enzymatic methods, spectrophotometry, flow cytometry, and ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay). Dr. Gasmi is adept at data collection and analysis, particularly in the context of studying the impact of physical activity and nutrition on human health. She is skilled in the use of statistical analysis software such as SPSS and EndNote for managing and interpreting research data. Her experience extends to the development and characterization of recombinant proteins, as demonstrated by her work on Glycoprotein G Multiepitope of Rabies Virus. Additionally, she is well-versed in the assessment of biomarkers related to muscle damage, antioxidant activity, and immune response, making her a versatile researcher capable of addressing complex scientific questions.

Publications

  1. Enhancing Cervical Cancer Survival through Innovative Radiotherapy Interventions: A Narrative Review
    • Authors: Sharma, A., Gasmi, M., Gautam, K.A., Melkani, D.
    • Year: 2023
  2. Effects of Acute and Chronic Exercise on Immunological Parameters in the Elderly Aged: Can Physical Activity Counteract the Effects of Aging?
    • Authors: Sellami, M., Gasmi, M., Denham, J., Padulo, J., Bragazzi, N.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 130
  3. Time-Restricted Feeding Influences Immune Responses without Compromising Muscle Performance in Older Men
    • Authors: Gasmi, M., Sellami, M., Denham, J., Selmi, W., Khalifa, R.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 40