Ayaz Ahmed | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Ayaz Ahmed | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr Ayaz Ahmed, ICCBS – University of Karachi, Pakistan

Dr. Ayaz Ahmed πŸ§¬πŸ”¬ is a Principal Investigator and Assistant Professor at the Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (PCMD), ICCBS, University of Karachi, Pakistan. With a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Dalian Medical University, China, and an M.Sc. in Microbiology from the University of Karachi, his research focuses on microbial profiling, anti-biofilm agents, and infectious disease models. Dr. Ahmed has supervised numerous postgraduate students and received multiple international awards, including recognition from the American Society for Microbiology and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. He also leads funded projects on combating antibiotic-resistant pathogens. 🌟

Publication Profile

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Qualifications

Dr. Ayaz Ahmed holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Dalian Medical University, China (2012), and a Master’s in Microbiology from the University of Karachi, Pakistan (2006, First Division). πŸ§¬πŸŽ“ His doctoral research focused on the “Microbial profiling of dental plaque/Biofilm from dental caries and periodontitis patients” and explored the effects of Lactobacillus species on S. mutans biofilm formation. πŸ¦·πŸ”¬ With a strong academic foundation and research expertise in microbiology and molecular biology, Dr. Ayaz contributes significantly to the understanding of microbial interactions in dental health and disease. 🌟

Job Responsibilities

Dr. Ayaz Ahmed is a Principal Investigator at the Cell Biology Lab, where he oversees the Imaging Facility, maintaining high-end fluorescence and light microscopes. He supports students by assisting them in acquiring high-quality images for their theses and manuscripts. Dr. Ahmed also manages the National Animal Facility for Laboratory Animal Research and Care. He supervises routine animal house operations and collaborates with a veterinary doctor to maintain SPF rats, mice, and hamsters. He is responsible for establishing models for infectious diseases and memory deficits to evaluate the efficacy of natural compounds. Dr. Ahmed also conducts toxicological studies and trains students in ethical animal research practices. πŸ§¬πŸ”¬πŸ

Student Supervised

Dr. Ayaz Ahmed and his team of dedicated researchers have made significant strides in their exploration of innovative therapeutic strategies. Among the Ph.D. candidates, Zulfiqar Ahmed’s research on controlling salmonellosis through probiotics in poultry, Binte Zehra’s study on modulating the metastatic potential of NSCLC, and Jazib Shafiq’s investigation into gut dysbiosis and anxiety have all been awarded. Additionally, Afshan Shams, Yamina Usmani, and Shariqa Khuwaja are examining the potential of natural and synthetic compounds in combating oral cancer and other diseases. Several M. Phil. students are also contributing to research on antimicrobial resistance and cancer therapies. πŸ§ͺπŸ”¬πŸ§«

Honors and Awards

Dr. Ayaz Ahmed has earned numerous accolades throughout his distinguished career. In 2024, he received the Award for Collaborative Scientific Achievement from the Institute of Food Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Agriculture Science, Beijing. He also became an International Federation for Biosafety Association (IFBA) Certified Biological Waste Management Professional and Bio-risk Management Professional in 2023. Dr. Ahmed was selected as a Mentor for the ASM Future Leaders Mentoring Fellowship Program in 2023 and was awarded the Health Security Partner Grant by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2021. He has also earned prestigious travel awards and fellowships, including the American Society for Microbiology ID Fellowship and the Science and Technology Talent Award. πŸ…πŸŒπŸ¦ 

Completed Projects

Dr. Ayaz Ahmed has led multiple impactful research projects focused on combating multidrug-resistant microorganisms and improving public health. His research on the effect of synthetic and natural compounds on biofilm formation was funded by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC) under project # HEC No: PD-IPFP/HRD/HEC/ 2013/1182. He also contributed to projects such as Personal Protective Equipment for Sindh Poultry Vaccine Center (funded by CRDF Global, USA), and oral pathogens related to dental caries (funded by ICCBS). Notably, his work on antimicrobial-resistant water contaminants, funded by the U.S.-Pakistan Centers for Advanced Studies in Water, aims to improve water quality. He further advanced research on antimicrobial and antibiofilm agents targeting Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumonia with funding from HEC. πŸ’§πŸ”¬πŸ¦ 

Professional Experience

Dr. Ayaz Ahmed has had a distinguished career in academia and research. Since June 2017, he has been serving as an Assistant Professor at the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi. Prior to this, he worked as a Senior Research Officer at the same institution from November 2013 to June 2017. Dr. Ahmed also pursued Post-Doctoral training in Behavioral Sciences at Hunan Drug Safety Evaluation in Changsha, China, from January 2016 to February 2017. His earlier roles include Assistant Professor on Interim Placement, Research Officer in Avian Influenza Vaccine Production, and a research intern in the National Internship Program. πŸ§ͺπŸ“š

Professional Membership

Dr. Ayaz Ahmed is an active member of several prestigious professional organizations, contributing significantly to the fields of microbiology and infectious diseases. His memberships include the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) 🦠, the Pakistan Biological Safety Association (PBSA) 🧫, and the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) 🌍. Additionally, he is a member of the American Association of Cancer Research (AACR) πŸŽ—οΈ and the Medical Microbiology & Infectious Disease Society of Pakistan (MMIDSP) πŸ‡΅πŸ‡°. These memberships reflect his commitment to advancing research and innovation in microbiology, infectious diseases, and cancer research.

Research Focus

Dr. Ayaz Ayaz Ahmed research focus primarily revolves around microbiology, particularly in the fields of gut microbiota analysis, antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm formation. His studies often investigate the interactions between microorganisms and the human or animal host, such as comparing gut microbe profiles between healthy individuals and those with conditions like hyperthyroidism and liver cirrhosis. Additionally, Dr. Ahmed explores innovative therapeutic approaches, including the development of antimicrobial agents, such as nanoparticles conjugated with antibiotics to combat biofilm-forming pathogens like Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. His work has significant implications for medical microbiology and the treatment of infectious diseases. πŸ¦ πŸ”¬

Publication Top Notes

Gut microbe analysis between hyperthyroid and healthy individuals

Phylogenetic and biological characterization of Newcastle disease virus isolates from Pakistan

Biofilm inhibitory effect of chlorhexidine conjugated gold nanoparticles against Klebsiella pneumoniae

Comparison of the gut microbe profiles and numbers between patients with liver cirrhosis and healthy individuals

Rifampicin conjugated silver nanoparticles: a new arena for development of antibiofilm potential against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae

Effect of Lactobacillus species on Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation.

Comparison of oral microbiota in orthodontic patients and healthy individuals

Synthesis and Chemosensing of Nitrofurazone using Olive oil based Silver Nanoparticles (O-AgNPs)

Isolation of dihydrobenzofuran derivatives from ethnomedicinal speciesΒ Polygonum barbatumΒ as anticancer compounds

Dr. Rocio Alejandra Chavez Santoscoy |Drug Discovery and Development| Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rocio Alejandra Chavez Santoscoy ,Drug Discovery and Development ,Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rocio Alejandra Chavez Santoscoy, at TecnolΓ³gico de Monterrey,Mexico

PROFILES

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Orcid

 

πŸ“šEarly Academic Pursuits :

The foundation of the research on Bacillus clausii and its novel delivery systems traces back to early academic pursuits in microbiology and biotechnology. Researchers embarked on this journey by gaining extensive knowledge in microbial physiology, genetics, and the complex interactions between probiotics and the human gut microbiome. This academic groundwork was crucial in understanding the significance of Bacillus clausii as a robust probiotic strain capable of withstanding harsh gastrointestinal conditions.

πŸ§ͺProfessional Endeavors :

Professional endeavors in this field have seen a significant focus on the development and optimization of microencapsulation techniques. Scientists and researchers dedicated their efforts to creating advanced delivery systems that protect probiotics from the acidic environment of the stomach and ensure their controlled release in the intestines. This involved interdisciplinary collaborations between microbiologists, food scientists, and biotechnologists, who worked together to design and test various non-digestible carbohydrate formulations. These endeavors were aimed at enhancing the stability, viability, and efficacy of Bacillus clausii in probiotic supplements and functional foods.

πŸ”¬Contributions and Research Focus :

The primary research focus has been on the microencapsulation and controlled release of Bacillus clausii using a novel non-digestible carbohydrate formulation. This approach leverages the protective properties of non-digestible carbohydrates, such as inulin, resistant starch, and pectin, to encapsulate the probiotic cells. The encapsulation process involves techniques like spray drying, freeze-drying, and extrusion, which help in forming a protective matrix around the probiotic cells. The key contributions of this research include:

  • Enhanced Stability: The novel formulation significantly improves the stability of Bacillus clausii during storage and transit through the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Controlled Release: The non-digestible carbohydrate matrix ensures a controlled and sustained release of the probiotics in the intestines, maximizing their beneficial effects.
  • Improved Efficacy: The formulation enhances the colonization and activity of Bacillus clausii in the gut, leading to better health outcomes for the host.

πŸ†Accolades and Recognition :

The groundbreaking work on the microencapsulation and controlled release of Bacillus clausii has garnered significant accolades and recognition in the scientific community. Researchers involved in this project have been awarded prestigious grants and honors for their innovative contributions to probiotic delivery systems. Notable achievements include:

  • Best Research Paper Award: The research paper detailing the novel formulation received the best research paper award at several international microbiology and biotechnology conferences.
  • Patent Grants: Multiple patents have been granted for the unique encapsulation techniques and formulations developed during the course of this research.
  • Industry Collaborations: Leading biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies have recognized the potential of this technology and established collaborations to commercialize the probiotic delivery systems.

🌍Impact and Influence :

The impact and influence of this research extend beyond academic circles, affecting various sectors including healthcare, nutrition, and the food industry. The novel non-digestible carbohydrate formulation has revolutionized probiotic delivery, leading to:

  • Improved Gut Health: The enhanced delivery system ensures that Bacillus clausii effectively colonizes the gut, contributing to improved digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being.
  • Commercial Products: Several probiotic supplements and functional foods incorporating this technology have been successfully launched in the market, providing consumers with more effective probiotic solutions.
  • Research Advancements: The success of this research has inspired further studies into microencapsulation and controlled release technologies for other probiotic strains and bioactive compounds.

🌟Legacy and Future Contributions :

The legacy of this research lies in its transformative approach to probiotic delivery, setting a new standard for efficacy and stability in the field. Future contributions are poised to expand on this foundation, exploring:

  • Personalized Probiotic Therapies: Tailoring probiotic formulations to individual microbiome profiles for personalized health benefits.
  • Multi-Strain Encapsulation: Developing encapsulation techniques for multiple probiotic strains to create synergistic effects and enhance gut health.

πŸŽ“PublicationΒ 

Food waste leachate valorization for sustainable biomass production from Arthrospira maxima

Microencapsulation and controlled release of Bacillus clausii through a novel non-digestible carbohydrate formulation as revolutionizing probiotic delivery

    • Authors :Ramirez-Olea, H., Herrera-Cruz, S., Chavez-Santoscoy, R.A.
    • JournalΒ  Β :Heliyon
    • YearΒ  Β  Β  Β : 2024

Microencapsulation and controlled release of Bacillus clausii through a novel non-digestible carbohydrate formulation as revolutionizing probiotic delivery

  • AuthorsΒ  :Ramirez-Olea, H., Herrera-Cruz, S., Chavez-Santoscoy, R.A.
  • JournalΒ  Β  :Heliyon
  • YearΒ  Β  Β  Β  Β :Β  2024

Synthesis and evaluation of Maillard conjugates for encapsulation and controlled delivery of quercetin under simulated gastrointestinal tract conditions

 

Essential-Oils-Loaded Biopolymeric Nanoparticles as Strategies for Microbial and Biofilm Control: A Current Status

  • AuthorsΒ  :Romero-Montero, A., Melgoza-RamΓ­rez, L.J., RuΓ­z-Aguirre, J.A., Leyva-GΓ³mez, G., Del Prado-Audelo, M.L.
  • JournalΒ  Β :international Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • YearΒ  Β  Β  Β  :Β  Β 2024

Prof Dr. ASHOK KUMAR SHAKYA |Drug Discovery and Development| Best Researcher Award-1226

Prof Dr. ASHOK KUMAR SHAKYA ,Drug Discovery and DevelopmentΒ ,Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. ASHOK KUMAR SHAKYA, at AL-AHLIYYA AMMAN UNIVERSITY ,Jordan

Β Profile

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Β  Β Β 

πŸŽ“Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Dr. Ashok K. Shakya’s academic journey began at Dr. Harisingh Gour University, Sagar (A Central University), India. He earned his Bachelor of Science in 1986, followed by a Master of Pharm. Science in 1988. His academic excellence continued as he pursued a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, which he completed in 1992. His doctoral research focused on the “Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of Some 1:3:4 Thiadiazole Derivatives,” where he synthesized various thiadiazole derivatives and evaluated their pharmacological activities, including CNS depressant, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, and diuretic effects.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Shakya’s professional career spans over three decades, marked by significant contributions to pharmaceutical education and research. He began his teaching career as an Assistant Professor at Dr. Harisingh Gour University in 1988. He later held positions at Integral University, Lucknow, India, where he served as the Head of the Faculty of Pharmacy and contributed to establishing Master’s and Ph.D. programs.

In 1995, Dr. Shakya joined Ranbaxy Research Laboratories as a Manager in the Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics & Drug Metabolism. Here, he developed and validated various analytical methods for new and existing drug molecules, playing a crucial role in clinical studies (PK/BE/BA).

Since 2008, Dr. Shakya has been associated with Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Jordan. He served as an Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and currently as a Professor in the Faculty of Pharmacy. He has been instrumental in teaching, research, and curriculum development. His administrative roles include Vice Dean of University Scientific Research and Assistant Dean of PDRC, where he established state-of-the-art research facilities and promoted research collaborations.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Shakya’s research expertise encompasses Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Analysis, Phytopharmaceuticals, Formulation Development, and Peptide Synthesis. He has developed several analytical and bioanalytical techniques for new chemical entities (NCE), investigational new drugs (IND), and abbreviated new drug applications (ANDA). His contributions include establishing GLP-compliant animal houses and staying abreast of current trends in cGMP, cGCP, and Good Laboratory Practices.

Dr. Shakya has filed two patents on anticancer and antitubercular agents. His skills extend to various analytical techniques, including LCMSMS, GC-MSMS, UPLC, and molecular modeling. He has also synthesized peptides and peptidomimetics, contributing to the field of drug design and discovery.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Shakya’s work has been recognized at numerous international conferences. He has presented his research at prestigious events such as the Eurasia Pharmacy Conference in Turkey, the International Conference on New Trends in Chemometrics and Applications in Turkey, and the Propolis-Human and Bee Health Conference in Bulgaria. His keynote address at the Best Med Grape conference in Beirut, Lebanon, highlights his standing in the scientific community.

Impact and Influence

As an educator and mentor, Dr. Shakya has guided over 70 master’s students, enhancing their research skills and helping them achieve their academic goals. His influence extends beyond teaching, as he has been involved in grant proposal writing, technical report authoring, and the procurement of sophisticated scientific equipment.

Dr. Shakya’s administrative roles have significantly impacted the research environment at Al-Ahliyya Amman University. He has promoted a culture of continuous quality management, encouraging faculty to publish in high-impact journals and facilitating research collaborations. His efforts have contributed to the university’s improved QS ranking and scientific reputation.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Shakya’s legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to advancing pharmaceutical sciences. His work in developing new analytical methods, synthesizing bioactive compounds, and mentoring future scientists has left an indelible mark on the field. As he continues his academic and research endeavors, Dr. Shakya remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of pharmaceutical research and education.

πŸŽ“PublicationΒ 

Antioxidant activity of some common plants

  • AuthorsΒ  Β :Nooman A Khalaf, Ashok K Shakya, A. Al-Othman, Zaha El-Agbar
  • JournalΒ  Β  :Turk J. Biol.
  • YearΒ  Β  Β  Β  Β : 2008

Orotransmucosal drug delivery systems: a review

    • Authors :NV Satheesh Madhav, Ashok K Shakya, Pragati Shakya, Kuldeep Singh
    • JournalΒ  Β :Journal of controlled release
    • YearΒ  Β  Β  Β : 2009

Palatal mucosa as a route for systemic drug delivery: A review

  • AuthorsΒ  :Pragati Shakya, NV Satheesh Madhav, Ashok K Shakya, Kuldeep Singh
  • JournalΒ  Β  :Journal of controlled release
  • YearΒ  Β  Β  Β  Β :Β  2011

Fatty acids analysis, antioxidant and biological activity of fixed oil of Annona muricata L. seeds

  • AuthorsΒ  :Z. Elagbar, R.R. Naik, Ashok K. Shakya, Sanaa K. Bardaweel
  • JournalΒ  Β :Journal of Chemistry
  • YearΒ  Β  Β  Β  :Β  Β 2016

 

Estimation of gallic acid, rutin and quercetin in Terminalia chebula by HPTLC

  • AuthorsΒ  :Ashok Kumar, K Lakshman, KN Jayaveera, S Mani Tripathi, KV Satish
  • JournalΒ  Β : Jordan J Pharm Sci
  • YearΒ  Β  Β  Β  :Β  Β 2010

Assist Prof Dr. Lili Xu, Drug Discovery and Development ,Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Lili Xu, Drug Discovery and Development ,Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Lili Xu, at China Pharmaceutical University,China

Author Profile

πŸŽ“ Academic and Professional Background:

Lili Xu, Ph.D., earned her degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biology from China Pharmaceutical University in 2017. She conducted postdoctoral research at the same institution until July 2021 when she was promoted to Associate Researcher. She leads two projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and two by the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province. With over 40 SCI papers and six patents, she’s received awards like the Shimadzu Young Scholar, Gold Prize of the Macedonia Invention, and Silver Prize of the Geneva Invention Award.

πŸ”¬ Research and Innovations:

Completed/Ongoing Research Projects:

  • National Natural Science Foundation of China, General Program: Screening, design, and synthesis of novel inhibitors that interfere with the formation of NEK7-NLRP3 inflammasome complexes and their application in the treatment of acute and chronic inflammation-related diseases (82173675), 2022.01~2025.12, RMB 550,000, principal investigator, ongoing.

 

  • National Natural Science Foundation of China, Youth Program: Discovery, design, synthesis, and exploration of NLRP3 inflammasome-targeted inhibitors for the treatment of non-controllable inflammatory disorders (81803354). 2019.01~2021.12, RMB 210,000, principal investigator, completed.

 

  • Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province, Youth Program: Design and synthesis of NLRP3-targeted inhibitors based on skeleton reconstruction strategy, and exploration of their therapeutic effects on non-controllable inflammatory disorders (BK20180564). 2018.07~2021.06, RMB 200,000, principal investigator, completed.

 

  • Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province, General Program: Discovery, design, synthesis, and activity evaluation of novel inhibitors targeting TLR4-MD2 immune-inflammatory pathway for drug addiction treatment (BK20231480). 2023-07-01~2026-06-30, RMB 100,000, principal investigator, ongoing.
  • China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, General Program: Discovery, optimization, activity evaluation, and mechanistic studies of ULK1 inhibitors (2017M620232), 2018.01~2021.01, RMB 80,000, principal investigator, completed.

 

  • Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, Key Program: Discovery and validation of novel oxadiazole-based anti-inflammatory target proteins using proteomics and molecular probe technology, 2021.01~2022.12, RMB 150,000, principal investigator, ongoing.

 

  • National Natural Science Foundation of China, General Program: Discovery of ubiquitin E3 ligase Cbl-b inhibitors based on substrate-binding crucial features and exploration of their application in tumor immunotherapy (82173680), 2022.01~2025.12, RMB 550,000, ongoing, participating.

 

  • National Natural Science Foundation of China, General Program: Discovery of targeted inducers of tau protein degradation conjugates based on ubiquitin E3 ligase Keap1 and exploration of their therapeutic application in Alzheimer’s disease (81773581), 2018.01~2021.12, RMB 620,000, completed, participating.

 

  • National Natural Science Foundation of China, Youth Program: Research on the application of GNN-based Raman hotspot regulation method in drug-target interaction (81803485), 2019.01~2021.12, RMB 210,000, completed, participating.

🏭 Consultancy/Industry Projects:

  • Institutional commissioned project: Detection of drugs in urban wastewater in Jiangyin City, commissioned by the Jiangyin Public Security Bureau, RMB 69,100, principal investigator, ongoing.
  • Industry commissioned project: Joint laboratory for drug detection between China Pharmaceutical University and Jiangsu Kangda Detection Technology Co., Ltd. (co-build laboratory), RMB 200,000, principal investigator, ongoing.

πŸ“š Books Published (ISBN):

Currently, no books have been published.

πŸ’‘ Patents Published/Under Process:

As the first inventor, Lili Xu has obtained 5 granted invention patents; as the fourth inventor, she has obtained 1 granted invention patent. Patent numbers: ZL201911146468.0, ZL202110442073.6, ZL202010483840.3, ZL201910366733.X, ZL202210071005.8, ZL202210146811.7.

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πŸŽ“Publication Top Noted:

Paper Title : Development of fentanyl-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) to antagonize the pharmacological effects of fentanyl
    • Authors:Jun Huang, Xing-Xing Fan, Jiaxi He, Hui Pan, Run-Ze Li, Liyan Huang, Zebo Jiang, Xiao-Jun Yao, Liang Liu, Elaine Lai-Han Leung, Jian-Xing Hee
    • Journal: Oncotarget
    • Year:2016
    • Citations : 86

     

Paper Title :The NLRP3 inflammasome: a vital player in inflammation and mediating the anti-inflammatory effect of CBD
  • Authors: Chu, F.-X., Wang, X., Li, B., Xu, L.-L., Di, B.
  • Journal: Inflammation Research
  • Volume: In Press
  • Issue: In Press
  • Year: 2024
Paper Title : Protein-protein interactions and related inhibitors involved in the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway
  • Authors: Ma, Z.-Y., Jiang, C., Xu, L.-L.
  • Journal: Cytokine and Growth Factor Reviews
  • Volume: 74
  • Pages: 14–28
  • Year: 2023
Paper Title :Mechanisms of NLRP3 inflammasome activation and the development of peptide inhibitors
  • Authors: Ye, T., Tao, W.-Y., Chen, X.-Y., Di, B., Xu, L.-L.
  • Journal: Cytokine and Growth Factor Reviews
  • Volume: 74
  • Pages: 1–13
  • Year: 2023
Paper Title : A light-up fluorescence probe for wash-free analysis of Mu-opioid receptor and ligand-binding events
  • Authors: Jia, Y., Xu, L., Wang, L., Yan, F., Hu, C.
  • Journal: Analytica Chimica Acta
  • Volume: 1261
  • Pages: 341220
  • Year: 2023