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Day 1 : Jun 01,2026
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Speaker Sessions
Biography:
Camilo Cadena is a Philosopher and an undergraduate Physics student at the Industrial University of Santander. He is a part of the Optics and Signal Processing Research Group, where I focus on polarization and birefringence, working with geometric algebras and quaternions, as well as Python-based computational tools. He is particularly interested in advancing technology in these research areas

Abstract:
In the characterization of a birefringent medium, two fundamental groups of parameters can be distinguished. On one hand, the intrinsic parameters describe the medium’s inherent birefringence —encompassing the elliptical retardation, the azimuth, and the ellipticity of the principal modes. On the other hand, the equivalent parameters, derived from Jones’ Theorem I, decompose the elliptical birefringence into a combination of equivalent linear birefringence (with its corresponding retardation and azimuth) and equivalent circular birefringence (optical activity). To date, most experimental methods tend to measure one or the other group of parameters separately, which can lead to ambiguous results due to the non-injective relationships between them. In this work, we present a methodology that simultaneously and independently determines both sets of parameters without ambiguity, by means of a polarimetric and geometric analysis on the Poincaré sphere. Furthermore, we introduce a clear physical interpretation of the equivalent parameters based on the Law of Elliptical Birefringents, which enables the determination of all possible emerging polarization states of the birefringent medium without requiring its rotation.The effectiveness of this proposal was validated in devices with different birefringence configurations, showing agreement among measurements, theoretical results, and other experiments. Thus, we demonstrate that jointly determining the intrinsic and equivalent parameters provides a comprehensive description of birefringence, avoiding common ambiguities and enhancing potential applications in metrology, polarization control, and optical device design.
Biography:
Dr. Bo Qu is currently an associate professor and doctoral supervisor at Peking University. He specializes in the field of organic optoelectronics (e.g., perovskite solar cells). To date, he has published over 100 SCI-indexed papers in international academic journals. Among them, more than 40 papers have been published in internationally authoritative journals such as Science, Chemical Society Reviews, Adv. Science, Small and Adv. Func. Mater., etc.

Abstract:
Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted broad attention. The certified efficiency has exceeded 26%, which is comparable to silicon-based counterparts. However, the environmental problems caused by the lead in perovskite restrict their large-scale applications. If a monovalent metal ion and a trivalent metal ion are used instead of two lead ions, a double perovskite A2M+M3+X6 is realized. In order to resolve toxicity of lead-based perovskites, Bo Qu group prepared PSCs based on lead-free double perovskite Cs2AgBiBr6 in 2017 (Adv. Sci. 2018, 5, 1700759), and then fabricated semi-transparent solar cells with an average visible light transmittance of  73% ( Sol. RRL 2020, 4, 2000056). However, the relatively large bandgap (~2.0 eV) of  Cs2AgBiBr6 hinders its optoelectronic applications in longer wavelength bands of visible and near-infrared regions. We replaced some of Bi elements in Cs2AgBiBr6 with trace doping (~1%) of iron (Adv. Function. Mater. 2021, 322109891) and ruthenium (Mater. Adv. 2022, 3, 4932) to broaden its absorption range to near-infrared region (1200-1350 nm). The above single crystal materials exhibit excellent near-infrared light detection. And we were invited to write a review article (J. Phys. Chem. Lett. 2023, 14, 5310). At present, the photovoltaic performance of lead-free perovskite still does not meet theoretical expectations. We have summarized the problems that exist in different lead-free perovskites (Mater. Today Energy 2018, 8, 157; Adv. Energy Mater. 2019, 1902496) and these limitations were mainly ascribed to low carrier transport and self trapping effects caused by low structural or electronic dimension of lead-free perovskites, as well as the non-radiative recombination. The bottleneck in the application of lead-free perovskite photovoltaics can be overcome by regulating the structural or electronic dimensions, and we were invited to publish a cover article in Chemical Society Reviews (2024, 531769-1788) entitled "Breaking the Bottleneck of Lead Free Perovskite Solar Cells through Dimensional Modulation". On the other hand, ?black-phase formamidinium lead iodide (a-FAPbI3) perovskites are the desired phase for photovoltaic applications, but water can trigger formation of photoinactive impurity phases. The conventional coordinative solvent dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) promoted photoinactive impurity phases formation under high relative humidity (RH) conditions because of its hygroscopic nature. Recently, we introduced chlorine-containing organic molecules to form a capping layer that blocked moisture penetration while preserving DMSO-based complexes to regulate crystal growth. We report PCE of >24.5% for perovskite solar cells fabricated across an RH range of 20 to 60%, and 23.4% at 80% RH. The unencapsulated device retained 96% of its initial performance in air (with 40 to 60% RH) after 500-hour maximum power point operation.(Science, 2024, 385, 161-167).
Biography:
Dr. Sonia Ruiz is a dietitian-nutritionist and holds a doctorate from Ramon Llull University, specializing in digestive disorders and weight management. She earned her diploma in Dietetics and Human Nutrition at the same university and has completed advanced training in her specialty at national and international institutions. She is the author of three books on nutrition and a prominent science communicator, participating in television programs, radio shows, magazines, and conferences to make nutrition science accessible to the general public. In her professional practice, she combines nutritional education with personalized strategies for digestive disorders, intestinal dysbiosis, intolerances, and obesity, offering both in-person and international virtual consultations. She has developed dietary methods focused on sustainable habits, promoting nutrition based on scientific evidence and tailored to each individual.

Abstract:
Introduction: Giardiasis, caused by Giardia lamblia, is a common intestinal infection that can lead to chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, bloating, and fatigue. Its impact on gut microbiota and the digestive metabolism of fats and proteins remains poorly studied. This study is among the first to correlate microbial profiles with digestive symptoms and specific metabolites (bile acids and SCFAs), providing evidence for personalized therapeutic strategies.
Objectives: To characterize common alterations in the gut microbiota of patients with giardiasis and correlate them with digestive and metabolic symptoms, including chronic diarrhea, steatorrhea, intestinal inflammation, and opportunistic fungal overgrowth.
Methods: Microbiota reports from eight patients were analyzed using NGS at Teletest. Bacillota/Bacteroidota and Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratios, bile acids and SCFA levels, proteolytic bacteria (Clostridium spp., Fusobacterium, Desulfovibrio), opportunistic fungi (Fusarium, Neurospora), and inflammation markers (FOB, calprotectin) were assessed. Recurring patterns were identified and correlated with clinical symptoms to establish relationships between microbiota, metabolites, and digestive manifestations.
Results: All patients showed gut dysbiosis, with significant alterations in Bacillota/Bacteroidota and Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratios. Secondary bile acids (DCA, LCA) and SCFAs were reduced, associated with steatorrhea in three patients. Five patients showed increased proteolytic bacteria, correlated with bloating, gas, and slow protein digestion. Intestinal inflammation was evident with elevated calprotectin in four patients and positive FOB in three, indicating mucosal damage. Additionally, three patients exhibited opportunistic fungal overgrowth, mainly Fusarium and Neurospora, linked to excessive fermentation and abdominal distension. Severe cases presented combinations of extreme dysbiosis, marked inflammation, and persistent symptoms, including chronic diarrhea, fatigue, and nutrient malabsorption.
Conclusions: Chronic giardiasis significantly alters gut microbiota, impairs fat and protein digestion, promotes inflammation, and favors fungal overgrowth. Patients with more severe alterations experience persistent symptoms and greater dysbiosis. These findings highlight the need for therapies aimed at restoring microbial balance and digestive function, supporting the potential of personalized treatments based on gut ecosystem modulation.
Abstract:
Background: Achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) requires accessible, accurate, and patient centered diagnostic tools. Traditional anthropometric methods are often limited, particularly for critically ill or immobile patients, creating barriers to quality care. The InBody S10, a medical-grade body composition analyzer, applies direct segmental multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (DSM-BIA) to provide precise measurements of intracellular water (ICW), extracellular water (ECW), total body water (TBW), muscle mass, and fat distribution.

Objective: To evaluate the clinical utility of the InBody S10 in enhancing patient-centered clinical nutrition assessment and guiding evidence-based management across diverse care settings, thereby strengthening health systems in line with UHC and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2030.

Methods: The InBody S10 was applied in outpatient clinics, dialysis unit, paediatrics unit, medical ward, surgical ward, and intensive care unit at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital. Assessments were conducted with patients seated, lying, or standing. Outputs such as ECW/TBW ratio, protein mass, mineral mass, body fat mass, Visceral Fat Analysis (VFA), TBW/FFM, Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI), phase angle, and segmental lean mass informed interventions, including dialysis adjustment, nutrition therapy, sarcopenia monitoring, and rehabilitation planning.

Results:
The technology facilitated early detection of malnutrition and fluid imbalance, enabling precision interventions. ECW/TBW ratios flagged edema and dialysis inefficiencies; phase angle values guided prognosis in oncology and geriatrics and other cases; segmental lean mass data supported physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Portability and reproducibility enhanced uptake in routine care. Challenges included the need for capacity building in interpretation and integration into electronic medical records.

Conclusion : The InBody S10 represents an innovation and technology in health that strengthens patient management, supports personalized care, and improves health outcomes. Its wider adoption across countries could contribute significantly to population health and health system strengthening, accelerating progress toward UHC and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).
Biography:
Wejdan Abdullah Khubrani, passionate about clinical nutrition, community health, and evidence-based practice. I have led multiple health initiatives and teams that focus on nutrition education, patient awareness, and public well-being. As an inventor, I developed an innovative patent-pending system that measures and analyzes nutrient intake using smart technology. My work reflects strong leadership, creativity, and a deep commitment to advancing the field of nutrition and health innovation.

Abstract:
This study explores how popular matcha has become among women in Saudi Arabia and what drives this growing trend. Findings reveal that many consume matcha for its perceived health and weight-loss benefits, yet few are aware of its caffeine content and possible side effects. The research emphasizes the need for evidence-based nutrition awareness to support informed dietary choices. Our aim to assess the prevalence, motivations, and awareness levels .related to matcha consumption among women in Saudi Arabia Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed among Saudi women of different age groups. Data were analyzed to determine patterns, motivations, and awareness about matcha tea consumption.

The results showed that a significant portion of participants consumed matcha for weight management and energy improvement. However, awareness regarding its caffeine content and potential side effects was relatively low. The findings highlight a knowledge gap between perception and evidence-based understanding. Conclusion Matcha consumption among Saudi women is increasing, largely due to social media trends and perceived health benefits. Promoting nutrition education can help ensure safe and informed consumption.
Biography:
Haylen J. Marín G. is a Spain-based Internal Medicine specialist with cross-system clinical experience in Venezuela, Ecuador, and Spain, where she currently practices at Hospital Universitario San Agustín de Linares (Andalusia). Trained at Universidad Central de Venezuela and homologated in Spain in 2017, she holds a Master's in Infectious Diseases (Universidad Rey Juan Carlos I, 2023) and is completing a Master's in Inborn Errors of Metabolism (Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, 2024–2025). Her clinical and academic work focuses on the intersection between rare metabolic diseases and the inflammatory mechanisms shared with common cardiometabolic disorders. In 2025 she published, as first author, a longitudinal immuno-genetic analysis of systemic inflammation in Fabry disease (Therapeutic Advances in Rare Disease), proposing an inflammatory phenotype-based framework beyond enzyme replacement. She is an active speaker at SEMI and international rare-disease forums, and author of Metabolismo Emocional (Arcopress/Almuzara, 2026), a science-communication book on metabolism and inflammation

Abstract:
Common obesity is still widely framed as a behavioral failure, despite robust evidence that it is a disorder of energy homeostasis with a strong inflammatory component. This narrative gap delays diagnosis, fuels stigma, and obscures the fact that obesity sits on a biological continuum where rare metabolic diseases occupy the most informative extreme. The clinical question this lecture addresses is straightforward: what can the orphan end of metabolism teach us about the pathophysiology — and the treatment — of the common one? Conceptual Framework & Theoretical Orientation: The talk uses rare metabolic diseases as a natural laboratory to expose the molecular circuits perturbed in polygenic obesity. Three convergent axes are integrated: (1) the leptin–melanocortin pathway, where defects in LEP, LEPR, POMC, PCSK1, and MC4R produce hyperphagia and early-onset obesity; (2) lipodystrophies, where the failure of safe adipose expansion drives ectopic lipid deposition, severe insulin resistance, and metaflammation; and (3) the NLRP3 inflammasome–IL-1? axis, activated by lipotoxic ceramides and danger signals, which links adipose stress to systemic metabolic disease. Key Insights: Each rare disease exposes a node that is also operative — more subtly and in combination — in common obesity. Setmelanotide, an MC4R agonist approved by the FDA in 2020 and progressively expanded through 2025 to additional monogenic, syndromic, and acquired hypothalamic obesities, validates the leptin–melanocortin axis as a druggable target and offers a working template for pathway-specific obesity therapeutics beyond incretin-based agents. Lipodystrophy and inflammasome biology, in turn, anchor the adipose-tissue and metaflammation narrative that increasingly informs cardiometabolic risk stratification. Conclusion & Significance: Reframing obesity as a continuum of adipose maladaptation and metaflammation — anchored mechanistically by rare disease — sharpens phenotyping, dignifies the patient, and accelerates precision obesity medicine. For clinicians, researchers, and industry, the orphan perspective is not a curiosity: it is a translational shortcut.