Zhihui Zhang | Cardiovascular Research | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Pencis

Prof. Zhihui Zhang | Cardiovascular Research | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zhihui Zhang, Army Medical University, China

Prof. Zhihui Zhang is a distinguished researcher at Army Medical University, China, specializing in cardiovascular diseases and stem cell therapy. His work focuses on endothelial seed cells, myocardial infarction, and immunosuppressive capabilities of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles. He has published extensively in leading journals such as Genes and Diseases, Science Bulletin, and Stem Cell Research and Therapy. Prof. Zhang’s research contributes to advancing early diagnosis and targeted interventions for coronary microvascular dysfunction. His expertise in molecular biology and regenerative medicine has made significant impacts in cardiovascular research and clinical applications.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus Profile

Orcid Profile

🎓EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS:

Prof. Zhihui Zhang embarked on his academic journey with a deep passion for cardiovascular medicine. His early education laid a strong foundation in medical sciences, leading him to specialize in cardiology. His dedication and excellence in research and clinical practice positioned him for advanced studies and significant contributions to the field.

🏥PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS:

Dr. Zhang is the Director of the Department of Cardiology at the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital) of the Army Medical University in Chongqing. His leadership extends beyond the hospital as he holds multiple prestigious roles:

  • Member of the Great Vessel Group under the Cardiology Branch of the Chinese Medical Association
  • Member of the Cardiologists’ Association of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association
  • Deputy Director of the Committee for Structural Heart Disease under the China Human Health Promotion Association
  • Deputy Director of the Cardiology Branch of the Chongqing Medical Association, leading the Interventional Cardiology and Imaging Group

🔬CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH:

Dr. Zhang is renowned for his expertise in interventional treatment of coronary heart disease and structural heart disease. His research focuses on:

  • Precise diagnosis and treatment of coronary heart disease
  • Interventional therapy for valvular heart diseases
  • Establishing a cohort for precise classification of myocardial ischemia
  • Creating a biobank and an artificial intelligence center for coronary angiography physiological assessment

Additionally, he has developed the professional Circa Met DB database, specializing in metabolic circadian rhythms.

🌍IMPACT AND INFLUENCE:

Dr. Zhang’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including:
🏆 Two first prizes for scientific progress in Chongqing
🏆 One first prize for scientific progress in Hubei Province
🏆 One second prize for military medical achievements

He has successfully led over 20 research projects, ranging from national natural science funds to key military and Chongqing talent programs. His pioneering work in cardiology has influenced national and military healthcare policies.

📖ACADEMIC CITATIONS:

Dr. Zhang has an outstanding publication record, with more than 30 SCI papers as the first or corresponding author (including co-first/co-corresponding). His research has been featured in top-tier journals such as:
📌 The Lancet
📌 Nature Metabolism
📌 Nature Communications
📌 Trends in Cell Biology

Additionally, he has contributed to drafting and setting 12 expert consensus documents, served as a deputy editor for two monographs, and contributed to nine other books. His work extends to two national invention patents, further solidifying his impact in the field.

🚀LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS:

As a recipient of the Outstanding Youth Talent Fund in National Defense Bioscience, Dr. Zhang is recognized as a key innovator in cardiology. He has been honored as an Innovation Leading Talent by the Chongqing Talents Program and as a Science and Technology Talent by the Army.

His legacy will continue to shape the future of cardiovascular medicine through:
✅ Advanced research in interventional cardiology
✅ Expansion of AI-driven medical diagnostics
✅ Development of groundbreaking therapeutic techniques
✅ Mentorship and training of future cardiologists

🌟CONCLUSION:

Prof. Zhihui Zhang is a visionary leader in cardiology, blending clinical excellence, groundbreaking research, and technological innovation. His contributions have not only transformed patient care but also advanced global medical knowledge. His work will undoubtedly influence generations of medical professionals and redefine the future of cardiovascular treatment.

TOP NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Single nucleotide polymorphisms: Implications in the early diagnosis and targeted intervention of coronary microvascular dysfunction

Authors: Dingyuan Tian, Jie Li, Qingyuan Yang, Zhihui Zhang, Fang Deng

Journal: Genes and Diseases

Year: 2025

Circadian nutrition: is meal timing an elixir for fatigue?

Authors: Zhihui Zhang, Lu Yan, Jonas T. Treebak, Min-Dian Li

Journal: Science Bulletin

Year: 2025

Foxo1 drives the TGFβ1-dependent dichotomy of Th17 cell fates

Authors: Mengjuan Zhang, Yude Guan, Meijuan Han, Xiaomin Zhang, Song Zhang

Journal: Journal of Leukocyte Biology

Year: 2025

The short-term outcomes and risk factors of post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal rupture: a multi-center retrospective study

Authors: Wenjian Luo, Li Wen, Jinning Zhang, Zhexue Qin, Shiyong Yu

Journal: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery

Year: 2024

Sources and applications of endothelial seed cells: a review

Authors: Dan Deng, Yu Zhang, Bo Tang, Zhihui Zhang

Journal: Stem Cell Research and Therapy

Year: 2024

Enhanced immunosuppressive capability of mesenchymal stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles with high expression of CD73 in experimental autoimmune uveitis

Authors: Yanan Duan, Xiteng Chen, Hui Shao, Jiawei Wang, Xiaomin Zhang

Journal: Stem Cell Research and Therapy

Year: 2024

Deciphering metabolic heterogeneity in retinoblastoma unravels the role of monocarboxylate transporter 1 in tumor progression

Authors: Junjie Tang, Yaoming Liu, Yinghao Wang, Ping Zhang, Rong Lu

Journal: Biomarker Research

Year: 2024

Associations between non-insulin-based insulin resistance indices and heart failure prevalence in overweight/obesity adults without diabetes mellitus: evidence from the NHANES 2001–2018

Authors: Diyu Cui, Chao Zhang, Yi Chen, Yu Zhang, Ping Zhu

Journal: Lipids in Health and Disease

Year: 2024

Single-cell transcriptomics enable the characterization of local extension in retinoblastoma

Authors: Yaoming Liu, Wei Hu, Yanjie Xie, Shengli Li, Rong Lu

Journal: Communications Biology

Year: 2024

Clinical characteristics of patients with moderate or severe valvular heart disease

Authors: Hao Gao, Yuzhu Lei, Haiyun Huang, Yanxiu Chen, Zhihui Zhang

Journal: Chinese Journal of Cardiology

Year: 2024

Ling Chen | Cardiac Surgery | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Pencis

Dr. Ling Chen | Cardiac Surgery | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ling Chen, Fujian union hospital, China

Dr. Ling Chen is a renowned cardiac surgeon at Fujian Medical University Affiliated Union Hospital, China. Specializing in aortic dissection, heart valve diseases, and congenital heart defects, Dr. Chen has made significant contributions to cardiovascular surgery. With a strong background in clinical research, Dr. Chen has published in top journals, including Nature Communications. Their work focuses on improving surgical outcomes through innovative techniques like valve-sparing procedures and minimally invasive interventions. Dedicated to advancing cardiac care, Dr. Chen continues to explore novel treatments and biomarkers for cardiovascular diseases, shaping the future of heart surgery in China and beyond.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Orcid Profile

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS:

Dr. Ling Chen’s journey in medicine began at Fujian Medical University, where they pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Clinical Medicine (2012-2017) . Their deep interest in cardiac surgery led them to earn a Master’s Degree in Surgery (2017-2020) , under the mentorship of Prof. Mingqiang Kang. Driven by a passion for advanced surgical techniques, Dr. Chen completed a Doctorate in Surgery (2020-2023) , under Prof. Liangwan Chen, focusing on groundbreaking cardiovascular research.

🏥 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS:

Currently serving as a Resident Physician in the Department of Cardiac Surgery (August 2023 – Present)  at Fujian Medical University Affiliated Union Hospital, Dr. Chen specializes in:
✔ Aortic Dissection
✔ Aneurysms
✔ Heart Valve Diseases
✔ Coronary Heart Disease
✔ Congenital Heart Defects

Dr. Chen is actively involved in clinical surgeries and research, aiming to improve surgical outcomes through minimally invasive techniques and innovative treatments.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON CARDIAC SURGERY:

Dr. Chen’s research bridges clinical application and scientific discovery, significantly contributing to the field of cardiac surgery and cardiovascular medicine. Their key research areas include:
✅ Pathogenesis of Aortic Dissection – Investigating the underlying mechanisms to improve early diagnosis and treatment.
✅ Factors Influencing Long-Term Prognosis of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Congenital Heart Disease – Enhancing post-surgical outcomes for pediatric and adult patients.

During their tenure at Beijing University School of Basic Medical Sciences (June 2022 – June 2023) , under the mentorship of Prof. Zheng Lemin, Dr. Chen worked on:
✔ Screening and Validation of Novel Biomarkers for Cardiovascular Diseases – Identified potential biomarkers for early cardiovascular disease detection.
✔ Gene Function in Heart Development and Disease – Discovered two new genes linked to heart developmental defects, improving genetic insights into congenital heart conditions.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE:

Dr. Chen’s work has far-reaching implications in cardiac surgery and precision medicine:
🔹 Advancing diagnostic tools for cardiovascular diseases using genetic research.
🔹 Improving minimally invasive surgical procedures to enhance patient recovery.
🔹 Integrating biomarker research into clinical applications for early disease detection.

Their dedication to bridging research and clinical practice is helping shape the future of cardiovascular medicine.

📖 ACADEMIC CITES AND PUBLICATIONS:

Dr. Chen’s groundbreaking research has been featured in leading journals, including:
📄 “Propensity Score Matching Analysis of Valve-Sparing Versus Aortic Root Replacement in Type A Aortic Dissection Patients” (Nature Communications, 2025)

This study provides critical insights into optimizing surgical strategies for complex cardiac conditions.

🏆 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS:

Dr. Ling Chen is committed to transforming cardiovascular healthcare through innovation. Their vision for the future includes:
✔ Developing novel surgical approaches to treat heart diseases more effectively.
✔ Expanding research on genetic and molecular mechanisms of cardiovascular disorders.
✔ Enhancing patient outcomes through personalized medicine and advanced diagnostics.

With a strong foundation in surgery, research, and clinical expertise, Dr. Chen continues to pioneer advancements in cardiac surgery, ensuring a lasting impact in the medical field.

🌍CONCLUSION:

Dr. Ling Chen’s dedication to cardiac surgery and research has greatly advanced treatments for aortic dissection, heart valve diseases, and congenital heart defects 🫀. Their expertise in minimally invasive techniques  and commitment to improving patient outcomes have led to groundbreaking contributions in the field. With prestigious publications , innovative surgical techniques , and a passion for discovery, Dr. Chen continues to shape the future of cardiovascular medicine . Their work not only enhances surgical precision  but also paves the way for new advancements , ensuring better healthcare for patients worldwide.

TOP NOTABLE PUBLICATION

“Propensity score matching analysis of valve-sparing versus aortic root replacement in type A aortic dissection patients”:

Authors: Ling Chen, Yichao Pan, Huaijian Zhang, Yi Chen, Chunsheng Wang, Zhihuang Qiu, Heng Lu, Liangwan Chen.

Journal: Nature Communications

Year: 2025

Rachad Zayat | Cardiac Surgery | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Pencis
Assoc Prof Dr. Rachad Zayat, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Germany

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rachad Zayat is a highly skilled and board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon at RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Germany, with over 12 years of operating room experience. Specializing in complex procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair, pacemaker implantation, and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), Dr. Zayat has performed over 450 surgeries in the past two years alone. He is proficient in mechanical circulatory support systems like ECMO and LVAD, and is also known for expertise in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted thoracic surgery. Dr. Zayat is actively involved in academia and medical research, further contributing to advancements in cardiothoracic care.

Profile:
Education:

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rachad Zayat holds a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) in Cardiac Surgery from RWTH University Hospital, Aachen, Germany, completed in May 2016. His dissertation focused on the impact of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy on the incidence of sternal wound infections, analyzing a large dataset of 4,100 cases. He earned his German State Examination for Medicine from C.A.U University of Kiel in September 2011, following his high school education at the American College in Aleppo, Syria, where he graduated in August 2003.

Professional Experience:

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rachad Zayat is a highly experienced cardiothoracic surgeon currently serving as Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Head of the Mechanical Circulatory Support Program at Heart Centre Trier. Since October 2023, he has led groundbreaking procedures, including the first Total Artificial Heart CARMAT® implantation in Rheinland-Pfalz, and developed a successful Robotic Thoracic Surgery program. From 2020 to 2023, he was a Consultant Thoracic Surgeon at RWTH University Hospital Aachen, performing numerous TAVR, CABG, and ECMO procedures while mentoring students and residents. During his cardiac surgery residency (2012-2020), Dr. Zayat gained extensive experience in complex surgeries, including over 100 CABG and 50 valve surgeries.

Research Interest:

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rachad Zayat focuses his research on advancing cardiothoracic surgical techniques, with a particular interest in catheter-based heart valve therapies (TAVR), ultrasound-assisted catheter-directed thrombolysis (EKOS-Lyse) for pulmonary embolism, and mechanical circulatory support systems like ECMO and LVAD. He also explores innovations in heart failure surgery, robotic and minimally invasive thoracic surgery, and works to improve patient outcomes. Dr. Zayat actively engages in medical research, addressing challenges in cardiac surgery, and regularly publishes his findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rachad Zayat stands as a distinguished figure in cardiothoracic surgery, demonstrating exceptional leadership, clinical expertise, and commitment to advancing patient care. His pioneering work in mechanical circulatory support systems, minimally invasive thoracic surgery, and groundbreaking procedures like the first-in-man Total Artificial Heart CARMAT® implantation has solidified his reputation as a leading expert in the field. Dr. Zayat’s contributions to both clinical practice and academic research continue to impact the future of cardiothoracic surgery, inspiring innovation and excellence in the medical community.

Top Notable Publications:

Hima, F., Saunders, A., Kashefi, A., Zayat, R., Kalverkamp, S. (2024). “In vitro evaluation of the performance of an oxygenator depending on the non-standard gas content of the inlet blood with special regard on CO2 elimination.” Perfusion (United Kingdom), 39(8), pp. 1614–1620.
Citations: 0

Schnoering, L., Khattab, M.A., Akhyari, P., Lotfi, S., Zayat, R. (2024). “Pressure-dimension index and left ventricular sphericity index following HeartMate II and HeartMate 3 implantation.” ESC Heart Failure, 11(5), pp. 3012–3022.
Citations: 2

Kolashov, A., Lotfi, S., Spillner, J., Zayat, R., Khattab, M.A. (2024). “Evaluation of myocardial work changes after lung resection—the significance of surgical approach: an echocardiographic comparison between VATS and thoracotomy.” General Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, 72(8), pp. 542–550.
Citations: 0

Billig, S., Zayat, R., Yelenski, S., Hochhausen, N., Derwall, M. (2024). “The Self-Expandable Impella CP (ECP) as a Mechanical Resuscitation Device.” Bioengineering, 11(5), 456.
Citations: 0

Durak, K., Nubbemeyer, K., Zayat, R., Kalverkamp, S., Kersten, A. (2024). “De Ritis Ratio to Predict Clinical Outcomes of Intermediate- and High-Risk Pulmonary Embolisms.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, 13(7), 2104.
Citations: 0

Doukas, P., Dalibor, N., Keszei, A., Akhyari, P., Mehdiani, A. (2024). “Factors Associated with Early Mortality in Acute Type A Aortic Dissection—A Single-Centre Experience.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, 13(4), 1023.
Citations: 0

Abdulwahab, H.A.M., Kolashov, A., Haneya, A., Zayat, R., Khattab, M.A. (2024). “Temperature management in acute type A aortic dissection treatment: deep vs. moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest. Is colder better?” Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 11, 1447007.
Citations: 0

Hima, F., Kalverkamp, S., Kashefi, A., Spillner, J., Mouzakis, F. (2023). “Oxygenation performance assessment of an artificial lung in different central anatomic configurations.” International Journal of Artificial Organs, 46(5), pp. 295–302.
Citations: 1

Hill, A., Bergmann, D., Schulte, J., Brücken, A., Stoppe, C. (2023). “Proenkephalin A and bioactive adrenomedullin are useful for risk prognostication in cardiac surgery.” Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 9, 1017867.
Citations: 4

Hill, A., von Dossow, V., Heyland, D.K., Moza, A., Stoppe, C. (2022). “Preoperative Nutritional Optimization and Physical Exercise for Patients Scheduled for Elective Implantation for a Left-Ventricular Assist Device—The PROPER-LVAD Study.” Surgeries (Switzerland), 3(4), pp. 284–296.
Citations: 4