Hilal Ünsal | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hilal Ünsal | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Immunology and Allergy at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Turkey

Dr. Hilal Ünsal is a distinguished pediatric allergist and clinical immunologist specializing in the diagnosis and management of allergies and immunodeficiencies in children. With extensive training and clinical experience, Dr. Ünsal has become a prominent figure in the field of pediatric allergy, contributing significantly to both clinical practice and research. Currently pursuing advanced studies in Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology at Hacettepe University, she combines her clinical expertise with a strong research background, particularly in primary immunodeficiencies, food allergies, and asthma. Her work has been published in several reputable journals, and she is an active participant in international conferences, reflecting her commitment to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Ünsal earned her Medical Degree from Gazi University, Faculty of Medicine in 2012, where she graduated as an honor student. She then pursued a residency in pediatrics at Health Sciences University Dr. Sami Ulus Maternity, Child Health and Diseases Training and Research Hospital, completing her training in 2018. Currently, she is completing a Clinical Fellowship in Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology at Hacettepe University, a program that is enhancing her expertise in the immunologic aspects of pediatric diseases. Dr. Ünsal’s academic path reflects her dedication to continuous learning and professional growth in the medical field.

Professional Experience

Dr. Ünsal’s professional journey has been centered on pediatric allergy and immunology. After completing her medical education and residency, she further honed her skills in pediatric immunology during her fellowship at Hacettepe University, one of Turkey’s leading medical institutions. Over the years, Dr. Ünsal has actively contributed to the diagnosis and management of pediatric allergies, asthma, and immunodeficiencies, working in various clinical settings. Her experience spans the diagnosis of IgE-mediated food allergies, asthma exacerbations, and immunodeficiencies, as well as advanced research in these areas. She has gained a reputation for her meticulous approach to clinical research and patient care.

Research Interests

Dr. Ünsal’s research focuses on the intricate relationships between primary immunodeficiencies, genetics, and pediatric allergies. Her specific interests include food allergies, drug allergies, allergic rhinitis, and asthma, with a strong emphasis on understanding the genetic and immunological factors contributing to these conditions in children. She is particularly dedicated to identifying novel allergens and improving diagnostic methods for food allergies, as well as exploring the role of oxidative stress in asthma. Through her research, Dr. Ünsal aims to improve the quality of life for children suffering from these conditions by enhancing early diagnosis, treatment strategies, and prevention methods.

Research Skills

Dr. Ünsal has developed robust research skills, particularly in the areas of biostatistics, immunological testing, and clinical research methodologies. She is proficient in using SPSS for data analysis, enabling her to conduct rigorous statistical evaluations of her research data. Her research skills are further enhanced by her involvement in multiple projects on food allergies, asthma, and immunodeficiencies. Dr. Ünsal’s expertise in interpreting complex immunological data, along with her ability to work with diverse patient populations, has allowed her to contribute to significant studies in her field. Her active participation in both clinical and experimental research ensures that her work remains at the forefront of pediatric allergy and immunology.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Ünsal’s academic and research excellence has been recognized by her peers and academic institutions. As an honor student at Gazi University, she demonstrated early promise in her medical career. Her ongoing contributions to the field of pediatric allergy and immunology have earned her opportunities to present at numerous prestigious conferences, including the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Congress and the World Allergy Congress. Additionally, her research has been published in well-regarded journals such as Pediatric Allergy and Immunology and Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences, which highlights her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field.

Conclusion

Dr. Hilal Ünsal is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award based on her extensive body of work, leadership in research, and active participation in international conferences. Her expertise in pediatric immunology and allergy is well-documented, and her ongoing research in immunodeficiencies and food allergies is crucial for advancing clinical practice in these areas. While further strengthening her clinical impact and broadening her research funding could enhance her profile, her current contributions to the field place her as a prominent figure in her discipline. Dr. Ünsal is well-positioned for continued excellence in research, making her an excellent candidate for this prestigious award

Publication Top Notes

  1. Title: The treatment journey of children with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in Türkiye: unmet needs
    • Authors: İlgün Gürel, D., Ünsal, H., Soyak Aytekin, E., Ersoy Evans, S., Şekerel, B.E.
    • Year: 2024
  2. Title: A large single-center cohort of bare lymphocyte syndrome: Immunological and genetic features in Turkey
    • Authors: Ünsal, H., Caka, C., Bildik, H.N., Tezcan, İ., Çağdaş, D.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 2
  3. Title: Cupressus arizonica: an emerging aeroallergen for East Mediterranean children
    • Authors: Ünsal, H., Şahiner, Ü.M., Soyer, Ö., Şekerel, B.E.
    • Year: 2023
  4. Title: Phenotypes of persistent hen’s egg allergy in children and adolescents
    • Authors: Ünsal, H., Dal, S.T., Akarsu, A., Soyer, Ö., Şekerel, B.E.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
  5. Title: Obesity is a risk factor for decrease in lung function after COVID-19 infection in children with asthma
    • Authors: Soyak Aytekin, E., Sahiner, U.M., Tuten Dal, S., Sekerel, B.E., Soyer, O.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 9
  6. Title: IgE mediated legume allergy in east Mediterranean children: A reflection of multiple food allergies
    • Authors: Soyak Aytekin, E., Unsal, H., Sahiner, U.M., Soyer, O., Sekerel, B.E.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 4
  7. Title: Comparison of miRNA expression in patients with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis and non-atopic asthma
    • Authors: Tunçer, F., Şahiner, Ü.M., Ocak, M., Şekerel, B.E., Birben, E.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 4
  8. Title: Clinical Validation of the Spirohome Clinic Ultrasonic Spirometer in Child and Adolescent Patients
    • Authors: Sekerel, B.E., Unsal, H., Sahiner, U.M., Karakaya, G., Kalyoncu, A.F.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 5
  9. Title: Food allergy management has been negatively impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic
    • Authors: Soyak Aytekin, E., Tüten Dal, S., Ünsal, H., Soyer, Ö., Şekerel, B.E.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 2
  10. Title: Allergic reactions against COVID-19 vaccines
    • Authors: Ünsal, H., Şekerel, B.E., Şahiner, Ü.M.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 4

 

Elena Prokopyeva | Immunology and Microbiology | Life Sciences Innovation Award

Dr. Elena Prokopyeva | Immunology and Microbiology | Life Sciences Innovation Award

Senior Researcher of Novosibirsk state university, Russia.

Elena Prokopyeva is a distinguished researcher and educator based at the Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine in Novosibirsk, Russia. Her academic journey began at Novosibirsk State University and progressed through advanced research positions at institutions like the FBRI State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology ‘Vector’. Dr. Prokopyeva holds a PhD focused on the phenotypic and genotypic properties of influenza viruses and has made significant contributions to virology, studying various viruses including influenza, coronaviruses, and adenoviruses. Her expertise extends to virological methods, immunohistochemistry, and serological diagnostics. Dr. Prokopyeva has authored numerous high-impact publications, reflecting her extensive research in infectious diseases and cell biology. She is also a reviewer for MDPI and an expert for the Russian Science Foundation. Her achievements, coupled with her teaching roles in embryology and histology, underscore her valuable contributions to the scientific community.

Profile
Education

Elena Prokopyeva completed her undergraduate studies at Novosibirsk State University (NSU) from 2003 to 2009, where she specialized in Natural Science with a focus on Physiology. She pursued her graduate studies at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, from 2009 to 2010, earning expertise in Biochemistry. Her research career began in earnest at the FBRI State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology ‘Vector’, where she was a Researcher Graduate student from 2010 to 2013, focusing on Virology and Cell Biology. Prokopyeva earned her PhD in December 2015 from the same center, with a thesis on the phenotypic and genotypic properties of pandemic influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus. She has continued her academic and research activities at the Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine since 2013.

Professional Experience

Elena Prokopyeva has a distinguished career in virology and molecular biology, marked by extensive research and teaching roles. She began her academic journey at Novosibirsk State University, where she pursued undergraduate studies in natural science and later advanced her education with a PhD at the State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology ‘Vector’. Her professional experience includes significant roles as a researcher at the Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine (FRC FTM) and as a lecturer in “Embryology,” “General Histology,” and “Special Histology” at Novosibirsk State University. Prokopyeva’s expertise spans virological methods, immunofluorescence, and serological diagnostics, with a focus on infectious diseases and cell biology. She has also contributed as a reviewer for MDPI and an expert for the Russian Science Foundation, reflecting her influence in the scientific community.

Research Interest

Elena Prokopyeva’s research primarily focuses on virology, particularly the study of influenza and other respiratory viruses. Her work explores the phenotypic and genotypic properties of pandemic influenza strains and their adaptation in various animal models. Prokopyeva has conducted significant research on the genetic diversity of adenoviruses and the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on respiratory infections in children. Her expertise extends to the characterization of avian and human respiratory viruses, including their interaction with host cells and susceptibility to antiviral treatments. Additionally, Prokopyeva investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying viral pathogenesis and employs advanced techniques such as immunofluorescence, real-time PCR, and electron microscopy to enhance the understanding of infectious diseases. Her contributions aim to improve diagnostic methods and therapeutic strategies for viral infections, reflecting her commitment to advancing the field of virology and infectious disease research.

Research Skills

Elena Prokopyeva possesses a diverse and advanced skill set in research, particularly within virology and infectious diseases. Her expertise includes virological methods such as virus isolation, infection assays, and the determination of virus susceptibility to inhibitors. She is adept in immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry techniques, essential for studying viral interactions and pathogenesis. Prokopyeva’s proficiency extends to serological diagnostics using hemagglutination and microneutralization assays, as well as molecular techniques like RNA/DNA isolation, real-time PCR, and gel electrophoresis. Her experience with light and electron microscopy further enhances her capability to analyze viral structures and disease mechanisms. Prokopyeva’s role as a reviewer and expert for scientific foundations highlights her strong analytical skills and contributions to advancing the field of virology. Her comprehensive research skills, combined with her active participation in professional organizations, underscore her significant impact and ongoing commitment to her field.

Awards and Recognition

Elena Prokopyeva has earned notable recognition for her research in virology and infectious diseases. Her contributions to the field are highlighted by her role as a reviewer for the MDPI and an expert for the Russian Science Foundation, reflecting her expertise and impact on scientific research. Her work has been published in prestigious journals such as Viruses, Biochemistry (Moscow), and the Journal of Infection in Developing Countries, with high citation rates in Web of Science and Scopus. Prokopyeva’s research on influenza viruses and other pathogens has garnered significant attention, underscoring her expertise in studying viral genetic diversity and pathogenic mechanisms. Additionally, her involvement with the Euro-Asian Society for Infectious Diseases marks her as a key figure in advancing knowledge in her field. These accolades affirm her standing as a distinguished researcher and contribute to her recognition for the Best Researcher Award.

Conclusion

Elena Prokopyeva is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her extensive research expertise, impressive publication record, and significant contributions to the field of virology. Her work in understanding and combating viral diseases, coupled with her role in educating future scientists, underscores her value as a researcher. Addressing the areas for improvement could further enhance her standing and impact in the scientific community. Overall, Prokopyeva’s achievements and ongoing contributions make her a worthy candidate for the award.

Publications Top Notes

  • “Genetic Diversity of the Human Adenovirus C Isolated from Hospitalized Children in Russia (2019–2022)”
    • Authors: Kurskaya, O.G., Prokopyeva, E.A., Dubovitskiy, N.A., Shestopalov, A.M., Sharshov, K.A.
    • Journal: Viruses
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 16(3)
    • Article Number: 386
    • Citations: 1
  • “Constitutive Androstane Receptor Agonist Initiates Metabolic Activity Required for Hepatocyte Proliferation”
    • Authors: Mazin, M.E., Perevalova, A.M., Yarushkin, A.A., Gulyaeva, L.F., Pustylnyak, V.O.
    • Journal: Biochemistry (Moscow)
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume: 88(8)
    • Pages: 1061–1069
  • “Changes in the Etiology of Acute Respiratory Infections among Children in Novosibirsk, Russia, between 2019 and 2022: The Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus”
    • Authors: Kurskaya, O.G., Prokopyeva, E.A., Sobolev, I.A., Shestopalov, A.M., Sharshov, K.A.
    • Journal: Viruses
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume: 15(4)
    • Article Number: 934
    • Citations: 8
  • “Virological and Genetic Characterization of the Unusual Avian Influenza H14Nx Viruses in the Northern Asia”
    • Authors: Dubovitskiy, N., Derko, A., Sobolev, I., Shestopalov, A., Sharshov, K.
    • Journal: Viruses
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume: 15(3)
    • Article Number: 734
    • Citations: 1
  • “Virological and genetic characteristics of human respiratory syncytial viruses isolated in Russia, 2017-2018”
    • Authors: Prokopyeva, E.A., Kurskaya, O.G., Solomatina, M.V., Shestopalov, A.M., Sharshov, K.A.
    • Journal: Journal of Infection in Developing Countries
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume: 17(2)
    • Pages: 251–259
    • Citations: 2
  • “Promotion of NR1I3-mediated liver growth is accompanied by STAT3 activation”
    • Authors: Mazin, M.E., Yarushkin, A.A., Pustylnyak, Y.A., Prokopyeva, E.A., Pustylnyak, V.O.
    • Journal: Molecular Biology Reports
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume: 49(5)
    • Pages: 4089–4093
    • Citations: 2
  • “Low incidence of human coronavirus among hospitalized children in Novosibirsk city, Russia during pre-pandemic period (2013–2020)”
    • Authors: Kurskaya, O.G., Prokopyeva, E.A., Anoshina, A.V., Shestopalov, A.M., Sharshov, K.A.
    • Journal: Journal of Microbiology, Immunology and Infection
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume: 55(2)
    • Pages: 336–340
    • Citations: 3
  • “Anti-Influenza Activity of Medicinal Material Extracts from Qinghai–Tibet Plateau”
    • Authors: Kurskaya, O., Prokopyeva, E., Bi, H., Wei, L., Sharshov, K.
    • Journal: Viruses
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume: 14(2)
    • Article Number: 360
    • Citations: 7
  • “Etiology of influenza-like illnesses in the population of Novosibirsk City in the 2018-2019 epidemic season”
    • Authors: Kurskaya, O.G., Anoshina, A.V., Leonova, N.V., Shestopalov, A.M., Sharshov, K.A.
    • Journal: Russian Journal of Infection and Immunity
    • Year: 2021
    • Volume: 11(4)
    • Pages: 723–736
    • Citations: 2
  • “Activation of the Akt pathway by a constitutive androstane receptor agonist results in β-catenin activation”
    • Authors: Yarushkin, A.A., Mazin, M.E., Pustylnyak, Y.A., Prokopyeva, E.A., Pustylnyak, V.O.
    • Journal: European Journal of Pharmacology
    • Year: 2020
    • Volume: 879
    • Article Number: 173135
    • Citations: 6