Yaochou Tsai | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yaochou Tsai | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Investigator at Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Taiwan

Dr. Yao Chou Tsai, M.D., Ph.D., is a distinguished urologist and researcher, currently serving as the Director of the Department of Urology at Taipei Tzu Chi General Hospital and an Associate Professor of Urology. With expertise in robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery, laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS), and endourology, he has made significant contributions to urological research, particularly in Taiwan UTUC collaboration. Dr. Tsai has held various leadership roles, including Secretary General of the Taiwan Maple Urological Association and Scientific Committee member for prestigious international conferences. He has received numerous accolades, including the Young Investigator Award and multiple best surgical film awards. Actively involved in academia, he has delivered invited lectures and live surgical demonstrations worldwide. His work has been recognized for surgical excellence by the Symbol of National Quality. With a strong research and clinical background, Dr. Tsai continues to advance urological innovations, making him a leading figure

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Yao Chou Tsai, M.D., Ph.D., has an extensive educational background in medicine and biomedical engineering. He earned his medical degree from Taipei Medical University (1990–1997), laying the foundation for his expertise in urology. Committed to advancing his knowledge, he pursued a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering at National Taiwan University (2011–2015), focusing on innovative surgical techniques and medical research. His post-graduate training includes a urology residency at National Taiwan University Hospital (1999–2003), where he gained specialized clinical experience. He further refined his skills through advanced training in laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery, including international workshops in Hong Kong and China. Dr. Tsai holds multiple board certifications, including those from the Taiwan Urological Association and Taiwan Association for Endoscopic Surgery. His robust education, combined with continuous professional development, has enabled him to become a leader in robotic surgery, laparoendoscopic techniques, and pediatric urology.

Professional Experience

Dr. Yao Chou Tsai, M.D., Ph.D., has a distinguished professional career in urology and minimally invasive surgery. Currently, he serves as the Director of the Department of Urology at Taipei Tzu Chi General Hospital and an Associate Professor of Urology. With over two decades of experience, he has held key leadership roles, including Deputy Director of the Medical Administration Office and Medical Department at Taipei Tzu Chi and Taipei Medical University Hospitals. He was also the Director of the Minimal Invasive Surgery Center and has played a crucial role in advancing robotic-assisted and laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS). A recognized figure in the international urology community, Dr. Tsai has contributed as a scientific committee member for major urological conferences and serves on editorial boards of renowned medical journals. His expertise in research, clinical practice, and surgical education has positioned him as a leader in urological innovation and education worldwide.

Research Interests

Dr. Yao Chou Tsai, M.D., Ph.D., has a strong research focus on urological oncology, minimally invasive surgery, and robotic-assisted techniques. His work in Taiwan UTUC collaboration research has significantly contributed to the understanding and treatment of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). He is also deeply involved in advancing robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery and laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS), improving surgical precision and patient outcomes. His expertise extends to endourology and pediatric urology, where he explores innovative techniques to enhance minimally invasive procedures. Dr. Tsai’s research has been recognized through numerous awards and publications, and he actively participates in international collaborations, sharing insights on cutting-edge surgical approaches. As an editorial board member of prestigious medical journals, he plays a key role in shaping the future of urological research. His dedication to surgical innovation and patient-centered research continues to make a lasting impact on the field of urology.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Yao Chou Tsai, M.D., Ph.D., has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to urological surgery and research. His achievements include the Young Investigator Award at the 2008 World Congress of Endoscopic Surgery and multiple Best Surgical Film Awards from the Taiwan Urological Association. He has also been honored with several Medical Research and Publication Awards from Taipei Tzu Chi General Hospital, securing first, second, and third prizes across different years. In 2015, he received the Medical Contribution Award of New Taipei City, acknowledging his dedication to advancing medical practices. His surgical excellence was further recognized with the Symbol of National Quality (SNQ) Award for pioneering work in single-port endoscopic adrenalectomy. With his continuous contributions to minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery, Dr. Tsai remains a highly respected and awarded figure in the field of urology and medical innovation.

Research Skills

Dr. Yao Chou Tsai, M.D., Ph.D., possesses exceptional research skills in the field of urology, minimally invasive surgery, and robotic-assisted techniques. His expertise lies in clinical research, surgical innovation, and biomedical engineering, particularly in Taiwan UTUC collaboration research. He has a strong ability to design and conduct clinical trials, analyze surgical outcomes, and apply advanced statistical methods to evaluate treatment efficacy. Dr. Tsai is skilled in laparoendoscopic and robotic-assisted surgical techniques, contributing to the development of minimally invasive procedures that improve patient care. His proficiency in scientific writing and peer-reviewed publications has led to multiple research awards and international recognition. As an editorial board member of several medical journals, he is experienced in manuscript review, research ethics, and academic publishing. His ability to integrate clinical expertise with innovative research methodologies makes him a leader in urological advancements and medical technology development.

Conclusion

Dr. Tsai, Yao Chou is a highly accomplished researcher in urology, particularly in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery. His academic leadership, numerous awards, and international recognition make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Enhancing his research output in high-impact journals, securing major grants, and contributing to medical innovation would further strengthen his profile. However, based on his current credentials, he is highly deserving of this award.

Publication Top Notes

  • Tsai, Yaochou et al. (2025) – Diagnostic Accuracy of Indocyanine Green–stained Sentinel Lymph Nodes in Prostate Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysisEuropean Urology Open Science

  • Tsai, Yaochou et al. (2025) – Re: Comparative Analysis of Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) and Robotic-Assisted Simple Prostatectomy (RASP) in BPH Management: A Systematic Review and Meta-AnalysisEuropean Urology Focus

  • Tsai, Yaochou et al. (2024) – Central Pathology Review and its Prognostic Value in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma Patients: A Nationwide Multi-Institutional StudyScientific Reports

  • Tsai, Yaochou et al. (2024) – No Difference in Oncological Outcomes and Perioperative Complications Between Patients with ESRD with Unilateral and Bilateral UTUC Receiving Radical NephroureterectomyScientific Reports

  • Tsai, Yaochou et al. (2024) – De Garengeot Hernia, an Acute Appendicitis in the Right Femoral Hernia Canal, and Successful Management with Transabdominal Closure and Appendectomy: A Case ReportBMC Urology1 citation

  • Tsai, Yaochou et al. (2024) – The Interplay Between von Hippel–Lindau Tumor Suppressor Gene, Lon Protease, ROS Accumulation, and Inflammation in Clear Cell Renal Cell CarcinomaCurrent Issues in Molecular Biology

Vibhuti Shah | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vibhuti Shah | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

MD, FRCPC at Mount Sinai Hospital, Canada

Dr. Vibhuti Shah is a distinguished neonatologist, clinical epidemiologist, and professor at the University of Toronto, with over two decades of expertise in pediatric research. She serves as Chair of the Research Ethics Board at Mount Sinai Hospital and has played a pivotal role in advancing neonatal care through her extensive research. Holding multiple prestigious qualifications, including an MSc in Clinical Epidemiology, MRCPCH (UK), and FRCPC (Canada), she has been recognized internationally for her contributions, receiving awards such as the Patil Award (AMEE, UK) and invitations from JAMA’s “Author in the Room” program. Dr. Shah’s leadership in academia and research ethics, combined with her mentorship of future medical professionals, underscores her commitment to improving neonatal outcomes. Her work has significantly impacted clinical guidelines and patient care, making her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. Her dedication to research excellence continues to shape advancements in neonatology and pediatrics globally.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Vibhuti Shah has an extensive educational background in medicine, pediatrics, and clinical research. She earned her MBBS from the University of Bombay in 1982, followed by a Diploma in Child Health (DCH) in 1986 and an MD in Pediatrics in 1987. Further advancing her expertise, she obtained the prestigious MRCP (UK) in 1994 and MRCPCH (UK) in 1997, signifying her specialization in pediatrics and child health. She later achieved the FRCPC (Paediatrics) from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in 2005, cementing her reputation in the field. Committed to research excellence, Dr. Shah pursued an MSc in Clinical Epidemiology and Healthcare Research at the University of Toronto in 2007. Her extensive training includes fellowships in neonatology and perinatal medicine in India, the UK, and Canada. This strong academic foundation has enabled her to contribute significantly to neonatal research, ethics, and healthcare advancements.

Professional Experience

Dr. Vibhuti Shah has an extensive professional career spanning clinical practice, research, and academic leadership in neonatology and pediatrics. She is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics and the Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation at the University of Toronto and a Staff Neonatologist and Clinical Epidemiologist at Mount Sinai Hospital. She also chairs the Research Ethics Board at Mount Sinai Hospital and Humber River Hospital, overseeing research integrity and compliance. Previously, she served as Interim Co-Chair of the Research Ethics Board and held clinical fellowships in neonatology in Canada, the UK, and India. She has been an Associate Member of the School of Graduate Studies at the University of Toronto since 2008 and has contributed significantly to mentoring and training medical professionals. With decades of experience in research, clinical care, and ethics, Dr. Shah has played a vital role in shaping neonatal healthcare policies and advancing pediatric medicine.

Research Interest

Dr. Vibhuti Shah’s research interests focus on neonatal-perinatal medicine, clinical epidemiology, and healthcare ethics, with a strong emphasis on improving neonatal outcomes through evidence-based interventions. She has conducted extensive research on pain management in neonates, neonatal resuscitation, and perinatal care strategies, contributing to clinical guidelines that enhance patient care. Her work in clinical epidemiology involves evaluating healthcare interventions, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses to improve neonatal and pediatric care practices. As Chair of the Research Ethics Board at Mount Sinai Hospital, she is also deeply engaged in research ethics, ensuring the ethical conduct of clinical trials and healthcare studies. Additionally, Dr. Shah has been involved in health policy research, focusing on optimizing neonatal healthcare delivery. Her contributions, recognized by prestigious international awards, continue to shape neonatal clinical practices and influence medical education, making a significant impact on global pediatric research and patient care.

Award and Honor

Dr. Vibhuti Shah has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of her contributions to neonatal research, medical education, and clinical epidemiology. Internationally, she was awarded the Patil Award by the Association for Medical Education in Europe (AMEE, UK) for her work in teaching and learning. She was also selected for the Mid-Atlantic Conference on Perinatal Research in both 2005 and 2006, receiving travel awards for her groundbreaking research in neonatology. In 2006, she was honored with the Thomas Jefferson Honorarium and Speakership for her clinical research contributions. Additionally, she was selected by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) for its “Author in the Room” program, recognizing her impactful research on neonatal pain management. These accolades underscore Dr. Shah’s exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing neonatal healthcare, making her a highly respected figure in the global pediatric research community.

Research Skill

Dr. Vibhuti Shah possesses a diverse set of research skills that have significantly contributed to advancements in neonatal-perinatal medicine and clinical epidemiology. She is highly proficient in clinical trial design, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and evidence-based medicine, ensuring that neonatal healthcare practices are guided by robust scientific evidence. Her expertise in biostatistics and data analysis allows her to critically evaluate healthcare interventions and contribute to policy changes. As Chair of the Research Ethics Board at Mount Sinai Hospital, she has extensive experience in research ethics, protocol development, and regulatory compliance, ensuring the integrity of clinical studies. Dr. Shah is also skilled in grant writing, peer-reviewed publishing, and mentoring young researchers, fostering innovation in pediatric research. Her ability to integrate clinical epidemiology with neonatology has led to impactful findings that have shaped neonatal care guidelines, demonstrating her strong analytical, ethical, and leadership capabilities in research.

Conclusion

Dr. Vibhuti Shah is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her outstanding contributions to neonatology, clinical epidemiology, and medical ethics research. While she has already earned international recognition, additional emphasis on research impact metrics and global collaboration could make her case even stronger.

Publications Top Noted

  1. Shah VK, Firmal P, Alam A, Ganguly D, Chattopadhyay S. (2020). Overview of immune response during SARS-CoV-2 infection: lessons from the past. Frontiers in Immunology, 11, 1949. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32849654
    Cited by: 548

  2. Firmal P, Shah VK, Chattopadhyay S. (2020). Insight into TLR4-mediated immunomodulation in normal pregnancy and related disorders. Frontiers in Immunology, 11, 807.
    Cited by: 105

  3. Pant R, Firmal P, Shah VK, Alam A, Chattopadhyay S. (2021). Epigenetic regulation of adipogenesis in development of metabolic syndrome. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 8, 619888.
    Cited by: 52

  4. Choksi A, Parulekar A, Pant R, Shah VK, Nimma R, Firmal P, Singh S, et al. (2021). Tumor suppressor SMAR1 regulates PKM alternative splicing by HDAC6-mediated deacetylation of PTBP1. Cancer & Metabolism, 9, 1-17.
    Cited by: 23

  5. Alam A, Taye N, Patel S, Thube M, Mullick J, Shah VK, Pant R, et al. (2019). SMAR1 favors immunosurveillance of cancer cells by modulating calnexin and MHC I expression. Neoplasia, 21(10), 945-962.
    Cited by: 19

  6. Firmal P, Shah VK, Pant R, Chattopadhyay S. (2022). RING finger protein TOPORS modulates the expression of tumor suppressor SMAR1 in colorectal cancer via the TLR4‐TRIF pathway. Molecular Oncology, 16(7), 1523-1540.
    Cited by: 6

  7. Pant R, Alam A, Choksi A, Shah VK, Firmal P, Chattopadhyay S. (2021). Chromatin remodeling protein SMAR1 regulates adipogenesis by modulating the expression of PPARγ. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) – Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids.
    Cited by: 3

  8. Sharma A, Garg S, Shah V, Agrawal P, Lohan P. (2015). Basics of design: lessons from walled city of Jaipur.
    Cited by: 2

Lars Blønd | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lars Blønd | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Senior Surgeon at Senior Surgeon, Denmark

Dr. Lars Blønd is a distinguished orthopedic surgeon and researcher specializing in patellofemoral surgery. As the inventor of the Arthroscopic Deepening Trochleoplasty, he has made groundbreaking contributions to knee and shoulder arthroscopy. With over 40 peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and a dedicated book on femoral trochlear dysplasia, his research has significantly impacted the field. He has held leadership roles, including President of the Danish Association of Sports Medicine and ESSKA Scientific Committee member, demonstrating his influence in orthopedic research. Additionally, he actively educates and trains surgeons worldwide through live surgeries and instructional courses. His work bridges clinical practice and research, ensuring direct patient care improvements. While expanding his multidisciplinary collaborations could enhance his impact, his dedication to advancing orthopedic surgery and mentoring the next generation of researchers makes him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Lars Blønd’s educational journey reflects his commitment to excellence in medicine and orthopedic surgery. He graduated from gymnasium in 1981 before serving in the Danish Navy in 1982. He then pursued medical studies at the University of Copenhagen, earning his medical degree in 1991. Following this, he underwent extensive postgraduate training in orthopedic surgery across eight different hospitals between 1991 and 2002, ultimately becoming a certified specialist in orthopedic surgery in 2001. Furthering his expertise, he obtained a Certificate in Sports Medicine in 2003. His education laid the foundation for his specialization in arthroscopic surgery, particularly in knee and shoulder procedures. Throughout his career, Dr. Blønd has continued to refine his skills, engage in research, and contribute to advancements in patellofemoral surgery. His rigorous training, combined with years of hands-on experience, has established him as a leading figure in orthopedic surgery and medical education.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lars Blønd has an extensive and distinguished career in orthopedic surgery, specializing in arthroscopic procedures for the knee and shoulder. Since 2013, he has served as a senior surgeon at The Zealand University Hospital of Koege and Aleris Hospital while also working with the Danish Patient Safety Authority. Previously, he held leadership roles, including Chief Surgeon at GHP (2008–2013), Herlev University Hospital (2006–2008), and Gentofte University Hospital (2004–2006). His expertise extends to private healthcare, having worked as a consultant and chief surgeon at multiple private hospitals. Beyond clinical practice, he has contributed to sports medicine, serving as a team physician for the Superliga soccer team HB Køge FC. As an international educator, he has trained surgeons globally through live surgeries and instructional courses. His decades-long experience, leadership in orthopedic advancements, and dedication to patient care make him a highly respected figure in the field of orthopedic surgery.

Research Interest

Dr. Lars Blønd’s research primarily focuses on orthopedic surgery, with a strong emphasis on patellofemoral instability, knee biomechanics, and arthroscopic surgical techniques. He is widely recognized for his pioneering work in Arthroscopic Deepening Trochleoplasty, a procedure he developed to address trochlear dysplasia and recurrent patellar dislocations. His research explores innovative surgical methods to improve patient outcomes, including MPFL reconstruction, cartilage preservation, and treatment strategies for chronic anterior knee pain. Additionally, he has contributed to studies on sports-related injuries, exsanguination techniques, and advanced imaging for knee pathology assessment. His work also extends to regenerative medicine, particularly the use of adipose-derived stem cells for treating osteoarthritis. Through his numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and global conference presentations, Dr. Blønd has significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of knee conditions, making his research invaluable to the fields of orthopedic surgery and sports medicine.

Award and Honor

Dr. Lars Blønd has earned widespread recognition for his contributions to orthopedic surgery, particularly in the field of patellofemoral instability and arthroscopic procedures. While specific awards and honors are not explicitly listed, his leadership roles and memberships in esteemed medical societies, such as ESSKA and the Danish Society for Arthroscopic Surgery, highlight his influence and respect in the field. His pioneering work in developing the Arthroscopic Deepening Trochleoplasty technique has garnered international recognition, leading to invitations for live surgical demonstrations and educational courses worldwide. Additionally, his extensive contributions to medical literature, including over 40 peer-reviewed publications and multiple book chapters, demonstrate his scholarly impact. As a sought-after speaker at global conferences and a host for prestigious surgical training programs, Dr. Blønd’s work continues to shape modern orthopedic surgery. His dedication to research, education, and surgical innovation reflects the qualities of an esteemed medical professional worthy of high honors.

Research Skill

Dr. Lars Blønd possesses exceptional research skills, demonstrated by his extensive contributions to orthopedic literature and surgical innovation. With over 40 peer-reviewed publications, multiple book chapters, and a leading role in developing Arthroscopic Deepening Trochleoplasty, he has established himself as a key researcher in patellofemoral instability and knee biomechanics. His ability to conduct high-quality clinical studies, retrospective analyses, and surgical technique evaluations showcases his expertise in evidence-based medicine. Dr. Blønd’s research skills extend to advanced imaging interpretation, biomechanical assessments, and regenerative medicine, particularly in the use of adipose-derived stem cells for osteoarthritis treatment. His involvement in international research collaborations, editorial contributions, and live surgical demonstrations further highlights his analytical and problem-solving abilities. As a frequent speaker at global conferences and an educator in arthroscopic surgery, he integrates research with clinical practice, continuously advancing the field of orthopedic surgery through data-driven insights and innovative surgical approaches.

Conclusion

Dr. Lars Blønd is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive publication record, innovative surgical advancements, and contributions to orthopedic research and education make him a strong contender. While he could further expand his research scope and collaborations, his impact on patellofemoral surgery and sports medicine is undeniable, making him an exemplary researcher in his field.

Publications Top Noted

  • Exercise performance in elite male and female sailors
    Authors: Larsson, B., Beyer, N., Bay, P., Blønd, L., Aagaard, P., and Kjaer, M.
    Year: 1996
    Citation: Int. J Sports Med. 17: 504-508

  • Patellofemoral pain syndrome in athletes: a 5.7-year retrospective follow-up study of 250 athletes
    Authors: Blønd, L. and Hansen, L.
    Year: 1998
    Citation: Acta Orthop Belg. 64: 393-400

  • Injuries caused by falling soccer goalposts in Denmark
    Authors: Blønd, L. and Hansen, L. B.
    Year: 1999
    Citation: Br. J Sports Med. 33: 110-112

  • Scintigraphic method for evaluation of reductions in local blood volumes in human extremities
    Authors: Blønd, L. and Madsen, J.L.
    Year: 2000
    Citation: Scand J Lab Clin Inv. 60;(5): 333-339

  • Exsanguination of lower limbs before surgery
    Authors: Blønd, L., Kirketerp-Moeller K, Sonne-Holm S, and Madsen J.L.
    Year: 2002
    Citation: Acta Orthop Scand. 73;(1): 89-92

  • Exsanguination of upper limbs before surgery
    Authors: Blønd, L. and Madsen, J.L.
    Year: 2002
    Citation: JBJS (Br). 84;(4):489-491

  • Exsanguination of limbs in elderly before surgery: A comparison with young individuals
    Authors: Blønd, L. and Madsen, J.L.
    Year: 2003
    Citation: Int. Orthop. 27;(2): 114-116

  • Bone marrow perfusion in healthy subjects assessed by scintigraphy after application of a tourniquet
    Authors: Blønd, L. and Madsen, J.L.
    Year: 2003
    Citation: Acta Orthop Scand. 74;(4): 460-464

  • Tranexamic acid reduces blood loss and blood transfusion in primary total hip arthroplasty
    Authors: Husted H., Blønd L., Sonne-Holm S., Holm G., Jacobsen T., Gebuhr P.
    Year: 2003
    Citation: Acta Orthop Scand. 74;(6): 665-669

  • Clinical Consequences of Different Exsanguination Methods in Hand Surgery: A Double-blind Randomised Study
    Authors: Blønd L., Jensen NV., Søe-Nielsen NH.
    Year: 2008
    Citation: Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume) 33; 475

  • Suprascapular Nerve Block or Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block for Pain Relief after Arthroscopic Acromioplasty
    Authors: Konradsen L., Kirkegaard PR., Larsen VH., Blønd L.
    Year: 2009
    Citation: Ambulatory Surgery 15-1

  • The arthroscopic deepening trochleoplasty
    Authors: Blønd L. and Schöttle P.
    Year: 2010
    Citation: Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 18(4):480-5

  • Development in sports medicine
    Authors: Blønd L.
    Year: 2012
    Citation: Ugeskr Laeger 174(12):783

  • Arthroscopic treatment for snapping scapula: a prospective case series
    Authors: Blønd L., & Rechter S.
    Year: 2014
    Citation: Eur J Orthop Surg & Traumatol 24(2):159-64

  • Combined arthroscopic deepening trochleoplasty and reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament for patients with recurrent patella dislocation and trochlear dysplasia
    Authors: Blønd L., & Haugegaard M.
    Year: 2014
    Citation: Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 22:2484–2490