Hyunsik Kang | Sports Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hyunsik Kang | Sports Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hyunsik Kang | Sports Medicine – Professor at Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea

Hyunsik Kang, Ph.D., is a renowned professor and researcher in the field of exercise physiology and biochemistry at Sungkyunkwan University in South Korea. With an exceptional academic and research career spanning several decades, Dr. Kang’s work has focused on the physiological and pathophysiological processes involved in aging, the role of exercise in health, and the biological mechanisms that influence cognitive function and physical performance. His research employs a wide range of experimental techniques, including cross-sectional, intervention, and longitudinal study designs, to uncover the molecular and systemic changes that occur with aging and how these changes can be modulated by exercise, lifestyle factors, and biological variables. Throughout his career, Dr. Kang has contributed significantly to the understanding of aging-related health issues, positioning him as a key figure in the field.

Profile Verification

ORCID | SCOPUS

Education

Dr. Kang earned his Ph.D. in exercise physiology from Kent State University, USA, in 2000, which laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to advancing knowledge in the fields of biochemistry and physiology. Prior to that, he completed his Master of Science (MS) degree at the University of Southern Mississippi in 1995 and at Seoul National University in South Korea in 1991. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree from Gyeongsang National University in 1987, also in South Korea. These educational milestones have enabled Dr. Kang to acquire a deep understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of exercise physiology, further strengthening his research expertise.

Experience

Dr. Kang’s professional journey is marked by several esteemed positions at Sungkyunkwan University, where he has been serving since 2000. He started as an assistant professor in 2003, became an associate professor in 2005, and was promoted to a full professorship in 2015. Throughout his tenure at the university, he has developed and led groundbreaking research projects in exercise physiology and biochemistry, focusing on aging and its impacts on physical and cognitive health. Additionally, Dr. Kang held a senior research position at the Medical College of Georgia in the USA from 2000 to 2002, where he further honed his research skills and broadened his international expertise.

Research Interests

Dr. Kang’s research interests are centered around the physiological and cognitive changes that occur with aging, and how exercise and lifestyle behaviors can influence these changes. His lab investigates the effects of physical activity and fitness on aging-related declines in physiological function and cognitive abilities. His work explores how biological factors, such as adiposity and vitamin D, as well as lifestyle behaviors, can modulate these changes. Dr. Kang’s research is also focused on identifying the integrative biological mechanisms that mediate these changes and understanding the efficacy of exercise interventions in reversing the adverse effects of aging. His work has broad implications for improving the health and quality of life for aging populations.

Awards

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Kang has received multiple recognitions for his research excellence and contributions to the fields of exercise physiology and aging. His work is widely cited, demonstrating the impact of his research on both the academic community and real-world health practices. His academic achievements have earned him leadership roles in prestigious journals, including serving on the editorial boards of BMC Geriatrics, BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation, and the Journal of Men’s Health. These positions have allowed him to contribute significantly to the global discourse on exercise physiology and aging.

Publications

“Development and Validation of Nomograms for Predicting Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Patients with Prediabetes and Diabetes” (Scientific Reports, 2024) 🏥
“The association between physical activity and neck circumference with cardiovascular disease risk in older wheelchair users” (Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 2024) 🧑‍🦽
“Efficacy of Non-pharmacological Interventions for Individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Control Trials” (Scientific Reports, 2024) 💪
“The Association Between Obesity Measures and Metabolic Syndrome Risk in Korean Adolescents Aged 10–18 Years” (Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, 2024) 🍏
“Otago Exercise Program Improves Physical Functional Performance and Reduces Falling Risk in Elderly Korean Women” (Topics in Geriatric Rehabilitation, 2024) 🏃‍♀️
“Association between normal-weight obesity and bone mineral density in older Korean adults: A population-based cross-sectional study” (Maturitas, 2024) 🦴
“Effects of a group-based Otago exercise program on physical functional performance and fear of falling in older adult Korean women: A quasi-experimental study” (Geriatrics and Gerontology International, 2023) 🧑‍🦳

Conclusion

Dr. Hyunsik Kang’s research career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to improving the health and quality of life for aging populations through the study of exercise physiology and biochemistry. His work has had a profound impact on the scientific community, with his research influencing both theoretical understanding and practical health applications. His ability to integrate complex physiological systems and explore the potential for interventions to improve aging-related health outcomes makes him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a focus on advancing knowledge in aging, exercise, and cognitive health, Dr. Kang exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher committed to the betterment of society.

Fidanka Vasileva | Exercise | Best Researcher Award

Ms Fidanka Vasileva | Exercise | Best Researcher Award

Ms Fidanka Vasileva , Biomedical Research Institute of Girona  , Spain

Fidanka Vasileva, born on July 10, 1993, in Kavadarci, North Macedonia, is a distinguished researcher and educator specializing in kinesiology and sports science. With a rich background in physical education, Vasileva has made significant contributions to the fields of exercise physiology, sports medicine, and genetics. She holds an MSc in Kinesiology from the University Ss. Cyril and Methodius, Skopje, and is currently pursuing a PhD with a focus on epigenetic modifications due to physical exercise. Her work spans international borders, reflecting her commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in her field.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Academic Excellence and Background:
    • Education: Fidanka Vasileva has demonstrated exceptional academic achievement with an MSc in Kinesiology with a perfect average grade of 10.00 from the University Ss. Cyril and Methodius, Skopje, Macedonia. Her doctoral research is supported by prestigious fellowships from the Government of Catalonia and the European Social Fund, reflecting her strong academic credentials and research potential.
  2. Diverse Research Interests:
    • Her research covers a wide range of topics within kinesiology, including epigenetic modifications due to physical exercise, sports genetics, exercise physiology, and sports medicine. This breadth of interest showcases her versatility and the potential impact of her work on various aspects of physical health and sport science.
  3. Research Impact and Publications:
    • Vasileva has published extensively in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals, including Frontiers in Physiology, Frontiers in Public Health, and the Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology. Her research has contributed valuable insights into physical exercise, its impact on epigenetics, and its relationship with various health markers.
    • Her work on topics like DNA methylation, salivary biomarkers, and the impact of physical activity on cardiometabolic health is highly relevant and contributes to both theoretical and practical knowledge in her field.
  4. Professional Experience and Roles:
    • Vasileva’s professional experience spans across various roles, including pre-doctoral researcher, coach, teacher, and fitness advisor. Her involvement in both academic and practical aspects of sports science enhances her research perspective and application.
    • Her roles as editor-in-chief and associate editor for international scientific journals, as well as her experience as a reviewer, indicate a significant level of engagement and influence within the academic community.
  5. Conference Presentations and Invited Communications:
    • She has actively participated in and presented at numerous international conferences and congresses, showcasing her ability to communicate and disseminate research findings effectively. Her involvement in organizing committees and chairing sessions highlights her leadership and organizational skills in the research community.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Dissemination of Research:
    • While Vasileva’s research is published in high-impact journals, increasing the visibility of her work through interdisciplinary collaborations and outreach to broader audiences could enhance its impact.
  2. Funding and Grant Acquisition:
    • Seeking additional funding opportunities and grants could further support and expand her research activities, allowing for larger-scale studies and broader research initiatives.
  3. Collaborative Research:
    • Engaging in collaborative research with institutions or researchers outside her current field could introduce new perspectives and methodologies, potentially leading to innovative findings and applications.
  4. Mentorship and Training:
    • As an accomplished researcher, Vasileva could consider mentoring emerging scholars and students in her field. This would not only contribute to their development but also foster a new generation of researchers in kinesiology and sports science.

Education

Fidanka Vasileva earned her undergraduate degree in Physical and Health Education from the University Ss. Cyril and Methodius, Skopje, with an impressive average grade of 10.00. She continued her academic journey by completing an MSc in Kinesiology at the same institution. Her doctoral studies, supported by a fellowship from the Government of Catalonia and the European Social Fund, are being conducted at the Biomedical Research Institute Dr. Josep Trueta in Girona, Spain, focusing on the impact of physical exercise on epigenetic modifications.

Experience

Vasileva’s diverse professional experience includes roles as a pre-doctoral researcher at the Biomedical Research Institute Dr. Josep Trueta in Girona, Spain (2021-2024), and a coach for Volleyball Club AVAP in Girona (2022-2023). She has also served as a Bioethics teacher at the University School of Health and Sport in Girona (2022-2023). In North Macedonia, her roles ranged from physical education teacher to fitness coach and personal trainer, showcasing her extensive background in both educational and practical aspects of sports and health.

 

Research Focus

Vasileva’s research primarily investigates the epigenetic effects of physical exercise, including how exercise-induced DNA methylation influences health and performance. Her work extends to the study of genetics in sport, exercise physiology, and sports medicine. She is also interested in motor development in children, neuronal plasticity, and biomechanical analysis. Her research aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications in sports and health.

Publications Top Notes

  • DNA methylation reorganization of skeletal muscle-specific genes in response to gestational obesity 🧬
  • BMI and Nutritional Status in Physical Active Population Involved in Recreational Sport 🥗
  • Impact of residential status on sports activity, anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities of adolescents 🏋️‍♀️
  • Speed, agility and explosive leg power in female junior volleyball players: A comparative study 🏐
  • Integrated neuromuscular training intervention applied in schools induces a higher increase in salivary high molecular weight adiponectin and a more favorable body mass index 📈
  • Salivary cardiac-enriched FHL2-interacting protein is associated with higher diastolic-to-systolic-blood pressure ratio, sedentary time and center of pressure displacement in … 💉
  • Face-to-face versus online physical education classes: A comparative study 💻
  • Explosive Strength, Arm Swing Jump Contribution And Eccentric Utilization Ratio In Youth And Junior Female Volleyball Players 🏆
  • COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MOTOR ABILITIES BETWEEN PLAYERS OF YOUTH AND JUNIOR NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL TEAMS IN MACEDONIA 🏐
  • THE HEREDITY OF MOTOR ENGRAMS IN VOLLEYBALL 🤾‍♀️
  • Increased Salivary BDNF and Improved Fundamental Motor Skills in Children Following a 3-Month Integrated Neuromuscular Training in Primary School 👶
  • Lifestyle as a Modulator of the Effects on Fitness of an Integrated Neuromuscular Training in Primary Education 🏃‍♂️
  • Insulin resistance, C-reactive protein, diastolic to systolic blood pressure ratio and epicardial fat are related to sedentary time, and inversely related to physical activity … 💪
  • Higher levels of liver enzymes are associated with increased left ventricular mass in apparently healthy children. Potential role of HMW-adiponectin and epicardial fat ❤️
  • Epicardial fat, interventricular septal and leftventricular posterior wall thicknesses are associated with cardiometabolic risk markers and physical activity in apparently … 🧠
  • Physical Exercise–Induced DNA Methylation in Disease-Related Genes in Healthy Adults—A Systematic Review With Bioinformatic Analysis 📊
  • Anthropometric characteristics of female junior national team volleyball players: A comparative study 📏
  • Motor skills in female junior volleyball players from Macedonia and players from other countries: A comparative study 🌍
  • Explosive leg power and flexibility in school children aged 6-8 years 🧩

Conclusion

Fidanka Vasileva is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her exceptional academic background, diverse research interests, extensive publication record, and active involvement in the academic community are commendable. Her contributions to understanding the epigenetic and physiological effects of physical exercise are significant and impactful. With continued focus on broadening her research dissemination and collaborative efforts, she is well-positioned to make further advancements in her field. Her dedication to both research and practical applications underscores her suitability for this prestigious award.