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

Xiaopu Ren | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaopu Ren | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Xiaopu Ren | Huangshan University | China

Dr. Xiaopu Ren, Associate Professor at Huangshan University, is a distinguished researcher in meat processing and quality control, with pioneering work on polyphenols’ role in inhibiting heterocyclic amines during thermal meat processing. Holding a Ph.D. from Nanjing Agricultural University, Dr. Ren has led over ten funded projects, authored more than 20 academic papers, published five books, and holds 16 patents. His innovative research on low-sodium and green meat product manufacturing has significant industrial and public health impact. As a young editorial board member of leading Chinese food science journals, he actively advances both scholarly excellence and practical food safety solutions.

Author Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Xiaopu Ren’s academic journey began with a deep-rooted interest in food science, nutrition, and public health. His early education laid a strong foundation in food processing technologies and analytical chemistry, which later became the backbone of his research expertise. Motivated by a desire to improve the safety and nutritional quality of food products, he pursued advanced studies at Nanjing Agricultural University, where he earned his Ph.D. in Food Science. During his doctoral research, Dr. Ren focused on polyphenols and their biochemical mechanisms in inhibiting harmful compounds during thermal meat processing. His exceptional academic performance, combined with his ability to translate theory into practical applications, set the stage for his rapid professional growth.

Experience

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at Huangshan University, Dr. Ren has taken on multiple academic and research responsibilities. His teaching philosophy blends scientific rigor with practical relevance, ensuring that his students not only understand the concepts but can also apply them in industrial and laboratory settings. Beyond teaching, Dr. Ren has been actively involved in mentoring young researchers, guiding graduate students in developing innovative solutions to food safety challenges. He has also collaborated with government agencies, research institutions, and food processing industries to address real-world issues, particularly in meat quality improvement, functional food development, and green food manufacturing technologies.

Research Focus

Dr. Xiaopu Ren’s research contributions represent a dynamic fusion of scientific innovation, practical applicability, and global health relevance. At the heart of his work lies a commitment to improving food safety, enhancing nutritional value, and advancing sustainable processing techniques in the meat industry. One of his most notable areas of focus is the inhibition of harmful heterocyclic amines (HCAs)—carcinogenic compounds that can form during the thermal processing of meat. By harnessing the antioxidant and inhibitory potential of polyphenolic compounds, Dr. Ren has developed novel strategies that significantly reduce HCA formation, thereby contributing to cancer risk reduction and promoting healthier consumption practices. This pioneering approach has not only advanced academic understanding in food chemistry but has also provided the food industry with practical tools for safer product development.

Award and Recognition

Dr. Ren’s dedication to excellence has been recognized through numerous accolades. He has been appointed as a young editorial board member for leading Chinese journals in food science, reflecting his influence in shaping scholarly discourse. His patents and publications have been widely cited, and his innovative approaches to food processing have earned him invitations to present at national and international conferences. Furthermore, his leadership in collaborative research has strengthened industry-academia partnerships, amplifying the reach and applicability of his work.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. Ren’s work extends far beyond academia. His research on polyphenols and green manufacturing directly benefits public health by reducing harmful compounds in food. The development of low-sodium meat products aligns with global health recommendations for reducing cardiovascular risks, while his eco-friendly manufacturing techniques contribute to sustainable food production. His influence is evident not only in policy recommendations and industrial adoption of his methods but also in the career paths of the many students and young scientists he has mentored.

Publications 

Effects of basic amino acids on heterocyclic amines and quality characteristics of fried beef patties at low NaCl level.

Author: Pinghua Deng, Shuang Teng, Yu Zhou, Yuling Liu, Boqun Liao, Xiaopu Ren, Yawei Zhang
Journal: Meat Science
Year: 2024

Beneficial effects of fermented jujube pulp in relieving loperamide hydrochloride-induced constipation in male ICR mice.

Author: Jing Li, Xinyue Yu, Xinxing Xu, Peipei Tang, Shuang Bi, Xiaopu Ren, Yong Shi, Jihong Wu, Fei Lao
Journal: Food science and human wellness
Year: 2023

Antifungal Activity of Cell-Free Supernatants from Lactobacillus pentosus 86 against Alternaria gaisen. 

Author: Huaying Liu, Ruili Zhang, Qiuqin Zhang, Mengtian Tian, Xiaopu Ren, Libin Wang and Xiaohong Wang
Journal: Plant pathology
Year:
2023

Conclusion

Dr. Xiaopu Ren’s career exemplifies the perfect blend of scientific curiosity, technical expertise, and a commitment to societal well-being. His pioneering research in inhibiting harmful compounds, developing healthier low-sodium meat products, and advancing green manufacturing methods demonstrates his dedication to addressing pressing challenges in food science. By bridging academic innovation with industrial applications, he has significantly influenced both research directions and practical solutions within the field. With a strong foundation of impactful publications, patents, and funded projects, Dr. Ren is poised to continue shaping the future of sustainable and health-focused food processing, leaving a lasting legacy for generations of scientists and consumers alike.