Adugna Abera – Biological Networks – Best Researcher Award

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Adugna Abera – Biological Networks – Best Researcher Award

Mr. Adugna Abera distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biological Networks. He has held several key positions in public health research and coordination. From August 2021 to July 2022, he served as the National COVID-19 Epidemiological Surveillance and Laboratory Coordinator at the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Concurrently, since 2019, he has been pursuing his Ph.D. at Addis Ababa University, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, in the Department of Cellular, Microbial, and Molecular Technology, focusing on the Applied Genetics stream.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He completed his educational journey at Addis Ababa University, where he first earned a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology in July 2005. He then continued his studies at the same university and obtained a Master of Science in Medical Microbiology in June 2009. Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. in Applied Genetics at Addis Ababa University, having started in September 2019 and expected to complete his doctorate in the near future.

Research Experience

He has extensive experience in research laboratory techniques, particularly in the study of Visceral Leishmaniasis and related assays. His expertise includes conducting FACS-based whole blood assays such as reactive oxygen burst assays, phagocytosis assays, and leukocytes surface activation markers assays. Additionally, he is skilled in whole blood stimulation for ELISA-based cytokine/chemokine assays and the isolation and subtyping of human monocyte-derived macrophages. He has also cultivated and handled both wild strain and gene reporter Leishmania parasites. His proficiency extends to a wide range of molecular techniques, including DNA extraction from various clinical samples, conventional PCR, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), Sanger capillary electrophoresis sequencing, whole genome sequencing using both Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms, PET-PCR, nested and quantitative PCR (qPCR), PCR-RFLP, and real-time PCR.

Experience

Prior to his role in COVID-19 coordination, he was the team leader of the Malaria and NTDs research team at EPHI from September 2017 until 2020 and continues to work as a researcher in the same team to date. Additionally, from 2017 to 2019, he coordinated the Malaria Elimination Baseline Assessment in elimination-targeted districts in Ethiopia. His earlier career included working as a Research Assistant on the Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases research team at the Armauer Hansen Research Institute in Addis Ababa from March 2010 to April 2016. He also served as an instructor at Bethel Medical College in Addis Ababa from September 2009 to January 2010.

Award

He has been recognized with several prestigious awards and fellowships. In November 2023, he received a fellowship to participate in a hands-on Genomics and Bioinformatics training workshop at Stellenbosch University, which took place from the 13th to the 24th. Earlier, he was selected for the Structured Operational Research and Training Initiative (SORT IT), which was supported by WHO/TDR and held at the University of Gonder from September 24 to October 6, 2018. These opportunities have enhanced his skills and expanded his expertise in his field.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬
  1. G/meskel W., Desta K., Diriba R., Belachew M., Evans M., Cantarelli V., Urrego M, Sisay A., Gebreegziabxier A., Abera A. SARS-CoV-2 variant typing using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction–based assays in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. IJID Regions. 2024; 11(2024): 100363. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100363.
  2. Gebregziabher SM., Yalew AW., Sime H., Abera A. Molecular detection of waterborne pathogens in infants’ drinking water and theirrelationship with water quality determinants in eastern Ethiopia: loop-mediatedisothermal amplification (LAMP)-based study. Journal of Water & Health. 2024; 22(1): 1. doi: 10.2166/wh.2023.201.
  3. Abera, A., Mamecha, T., Abose, E., Bokicho, B., Ashole, A., Bishaw, T., Mariyo, A., Bogale, B., Terefe, H., Tadesse, H., Belachew, M., Difabachew, H., Eukubay, A., Kinde, S., Ali, A., Regasa, F., Seife, F., Kebede, Z., Wossen, M., Tollera, G., … Tasew, G. Reemergence of Human African Trypanosomiasis Caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, Ethiopia. Emerging infectious diseases. 2024; 30(1): 125–128. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3001.231319.
  4. Zeleke MT, Gelaye KA, Abera A, Teshome MB, Guma GT, Abate BT, et al. (2023) Diagnostic performance of PfHRP2/pLDH malaria rapid diagnostic tests in elimination setting, northwest Ethiopia. PLOS Glob Public Health 3(7): e0001879. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgph.0001879.
  5. Tameru K, Tsegaye B, Shikur M, Ergete W, Tasew G, Abera A, and Wolday D. Case Report: Disseminated Strongloidesstercoralis Presenting as an Ulcerated Gastric Mass in an HIV-1-Infected Patient. Am. J. Trop. Med. Hyg., 106(6), 2022, pp. 1675–1677. doi:10.4269/ajtmh.21-0791.
  6. Sisay A, Abera A, Dufera B, Endrias T, Tasew G, Tesfaye A, et al. (2022) Diagnostic accuracy of three commercially available one step RT-PCR assays for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in resource-limited settings. PLoS ONE 17(1): https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0262178.
  7. Belachew, M., Wolde, M., Nega, D. Gidey B, Negash L, Assefa A, Tasew G, Woyessa A, Abera A.Evaluating performance of multiplex real time PCR for the diagnosis of malaria at elimination targeted low transmission settings of Ethiopia. Malar J 21, 9 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12936-021-04029-x.
  8. Nega, Abera A, Gidey B et al. Baseline malaria prevalence at the targeted pre-elimination districts in Ethiopia. BMC Public Health (2021) 21:1996. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-021-12036-5.
  9. Abera A, Belay H, Zewude A et al. Establishment of COVID-19 testing laboratory in resource-limited settings: challenges and prospects reported from Ethiopia. Global Health Action. 2020; 13(1841963):1-7.
  10. Gidey B, Nega D, Abera Aet al. Mentorship on malaria microscopy diagnostic service in Ethiopia: baseline competency of microscopists and performance of health facilities. Malaria Journal. 2021; 20(1).
  11. Tasew G, Gadisa E, Abera A et al. Whole blood-based in vitro culture reveals diminished secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in visceral leishmaniasis. Cytokine. 2020; 155246. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cyto.2020.155246.
  12. Abib Berhanu, Adugna Abera, Desalegn Nega, SindewMekasha, Surafel Fentaw, Abebe Assefa, Gashaw Gebrewolde, Yonas Wuletaw, Ashenafi Assefa, Sisay Dugassa, Habte Tekie1 and Geremew Tasew. Isolation and identification of microflora from the midgut and salivary glands of Anopheles species in malaria endemic areas of Ethiopia. BMC Microbiology. 2019; 19:85.

Rozita Nasiri – Biological Networks – Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Rozita Nasiri distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biological Networks.  She possesses extensive expertise across a wide array of disciplines within biotechnology and biomedical research. Her skills encompass conducting in vitro studies, where she is adept at working with both normal and cancer cells in tissue culture laboratories, proficiently executing various in vitro tests. Additionally, she holds substantial experience in in vivo studies, including working with animal models such as mice and rats to establish conditions like cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and lead contamination, among others. Her proficiency extends to pharmacology and toxicology, as well as treatment studies.🧬🔗

Furthermore, she is highly skilled in molecular analysis techniques, including PCR, RT-PCR, SDS page, gel electrophoresis, gel extraction, plasmid extraction, dialysis, and genomic and proteomic extraction and isolation. She is also capable of gene and protein sequencing and determining DNA and protein concentrations. Her expertise extends to conducting hematology, immunology, and pathology tests, including biocompatibility studies.🧬

 

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

She completed her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Biology (Cell and Molecular Biology) from Islamic Azad University (I.R.IRAN) from 2002 to 2006. Following that, she pursued her Master of Science in Biotechnology at UTM (Universiti Technologi Malaysia) from 2009 to 2011, where her research focused on molecular identification of biodegradation related genes from dye-degrading microbes. Subsequently, she earned her PhD in Bioprocess Engineering from the Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Department of Bioprocess Engineering, spanning from 2012 to 2017. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Synthesis and Characterization of SPIONs-Bromelain-Folic acid on Folic Acid Receptor Positive Cancer Model,” demonstrated her expertise in the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials for targeted cancer therapy. Throughout her academic journey, she has consistently excelled, maintaining a CGPA of 4 out of 4 for her PhD and 3.62 out of 4 for her Master’s degree.

She has received several notable awards and recognitions for her outstanding contributions to the field of biotechnology and bioprocess engineering. In 2013, she was honored with the Best Paper Award at IGCESH for her research on identifying novel bacterial species capable of degrading Dalapon using 16S rRNA genomic analysis. Additionally, she received the Best New Idea Award from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, showcasing her innovative thinking and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, her academic excellence was acknowledged through the receipt of an International Doctoral Fellowship from the School of Graduate Studies at UTM, underscoring her dedication to advancing knowledge in her field through research and scholarly endeavors.

Books📚📚📚

1. 2019 “Genetic, Molecular Identification and Bioinformatics Analysis of Carcinogenic Azo Dyes’
Biodegradation related Genes from Citrobacter freundii A1, Enterococcus casseliflavus C1, Enterobacter
cloacae L17 and Candida tropicalis RETL-Cr1 Microorganisms,” Ariyadanesh Press, Iran.
2. 2019 “Synthesis, Characterization and Cancer Therapy Application of Novel Targeted SPIONsBromelainFolic acid Nano-Medicine on FAR+ Cancer Model”, Ariyadanesh Press, Iran.

WORK EXPERIENCE 🧬🔗

She has accumulated a diverse range of professional experiences and roles throughout her career. Initially, she worked as a Medical Laboratory Assistant at Tabatabaei Medical Diagnostic Laboratory and later at Dr. Ghaziasgar Medical Laboratory from 2006 to 2008, where she performed various laboratory tests. Transitioning into academia, she assumed the position of a University Lecturer and Laboratory Instructor at Islamic Azad University, Khorasgan Branch, starting in 2019. In this role, she teaches cell culture techniques, animal handling, and molecular laboratory skills. Simultaneously, she serves as a University Lecturer in English Literature, delivering English courses to undergraduate, master, and PhD students.

Expanding her academic endeavors, she also holds positions as a University Lecturer in Molecular Cell Biology and Biostatistics at the University of Isfahan since 2021, where she imparts knowledge on cell biology, molecular science, and biostatistics. Furthermore, she engages in research activities at the Royan Institute, focusing on the development of inactivated vaccines and antidiarrheal IgY polyclonal antibodies paste products.

Moreover, she plays a significant role as a Co-Supervisor for various Master and PhD projects, supervising research in areas such as nanotechnology, exercise physiology, cancer prevention, and drug development. Additionally, she has conducted research at the Royan Institute and the Dr. Mohammad Shafie Special Center of New Science and Technologies, leading projects focused on vaccine development and R&D in various scientific domains. Her contributions to both academia and research demonstrate her multidisciplinary expertise and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tianzhu Guan- Biological Networks – Young Scientist Award

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Tianzhu Guan- Biological Networks

Dr. Tianzhu Guan distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biological Network.  Tianzhu Guan a recipient of the 2020 Excellent PhD in the “Green and Golden Phoenix Plan” in Yangzhou City, specializes in the development of nutritional foods with dual applications in medicine and nutrition. His expertise lies at the intersection of cutting-edge scientific disciplines, where he seamlessly integrates Network Science and Graph Analytics into his research. Driven by a passion for advancing food safety, he has a keen focus on the recognition and detection of food hazard factors.

In his groundbreaking work , Tianzhu Guan employs a multifaceted approach, combining molecular techniques such as Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamic Simulation, and Quantum Chemical Calculation. These methodologies enable him to delve into the intricate molecular interactions within food components, paving the way for innovative solutions in the development of nutritionally enriched foods.

Beyond his computational prowess, He is well-versed in experimental techniques, including Molecular Biology, Western-Blot, and SDS-Page. This dual proficiency empowers him to bridge the gap between theoretical predictions and practical applications, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationships between food and medicine.

He is a visionary researcher who not only excels in the theoretical realms of his field but also possesses the practical skills necessary for translating his findings into tangible advancements. His holistic approach to scientific inquiry positions him as a trailblazer in the realm of nutrition and food safety.

Education

He, having pursued a dedicated academic journey, holds a comprehensive educational background in Food Science and Engineering. His academic pursuits commenced with a Bachelor’s degree in Grain Engineering from Jilin Agricultural University, spanning from September 2010 to July 2014. Building upon this foundation, he advanced to earn a Master’s degree in Food Science and Engineering at Jilin University, completing the program from September 2014 to July 2016. His scholarly pursuits culminated in a PhD in Food Science and Engineering from Jilin University, where he engaged in advanced research and academic exploration from September 2016 to October 2019. This extensive and progressively specialized education equips him with a solid foundation and expertise in the intricacies of food science and engineering.

Professional Profiles:

Research Awards

He has garnered significant recognition for his impactful contributions to the field, exemplified by the prestigious Jilin Province Science and Technology Awards. In 2022, he received the second prize in the Natural Science category for his outstanding work on the Mechanism Study of Small Molecule Disruptors in Regulating Estrogen Receptors, demonstrating a keen understanding of the intricate molecular processes involved. Prior to this achievement, in 2020, he secured another second prize in the Natural Science category for his research titled Evaluation of endocrine disrupting effects and residual detection of typical persistent organic pollutants based on receptor recognition. His consistent success in earning accolades underscores his expertise and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge in the domain of endocrine disruption and receptor recognition, further solidifying his position as a distinguished contributor to the field of science and technology.

Funding

⚫ Natural Science Fund for Colleges and Universities in Jiangsu Province of China
(Grant No. 20KJB550002)
⚫ National Youth Talent Sup- port Program of the China Association for Science
and Technology (Grant No. 20220615ZZ07110388)
⚫ Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province, China (Grant No.
BK20200954)
⚫ Laboratory of Xinjiang Native Medicinal and Edible Plant Resources Chemistry,
Kashi University (Grant No. KSUZDSYS202305) Skills

Publication