enews
International Federation of Clinical Chemistry
and Laboratory Medicine

Communications and Publications Division (CPD) of the IFCC
Editor: Katherina Psarra, MSc, PhD
IFCC Office, Via C. Farini, 81
20159 Milano, Italy
E-mail: enews@ifcc.org

news

№6
June 20241

enewsIn this issue
The voice of IFCC
Message from the IFCC President

4Call For Outcome Study Proposals

6

GLOBAL MED LAB WEEK 2024 “LABS SAVE LIVES”

7

Global Medlab Week Celebrations in Pakistan

14

IFCC: the Young Scientists
IFCC Young Scientists – Young scientist awarded at WorldLab 2024 in Dubai

18

IFCC Young Scientists – YS excursion to the University City of Sharjah

22

IFCC Young Scientists – 1st young scientists poster session at WorldLab 2024 in

24

Dubai
Absolute Success of the Third Young Scientist Forum in Dubai

25

IFCC WorldLab 2024 - Dubai through Young Scientists’ Eyes

27

Contribute to IFCC eNews
Tips for Success when Applying for Global Recognition Through the UNIVANTS

37

of Healthcare Excellence award program

News from Regional Federations and Member Societies
Painting the Path: Exploring AI in Healthcare through Art

40

News from Japan Society of Clinical Chemistry (JSCC) 2023 Technology Award

42

News from SEQClm: Exercise tests using video games help stimulate growth44

hormone in children in a non-invasive and safe way
The 15th Conference of the Romanian Association of Laboratory Medicine

46News from the Turkish Biochemical Society (TBS)51

New IFCC Members
Zybio Inc.; Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech Co. Ltd; Dirui

52

2

IFCC’s Calendar of Congresses, Conferences & Events
IFCC and Regional Federations events

54

Corporate Member events with IFCC auspices

55

Other events with IFCC auspices

56

3

The voice of IFCC
IFCC and Congress President’s Welcome Message
June 2024
By Tomris Ozben

Dear Colleagues and Friends,
On behalf of the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry andLaboratory Medicine (IFCC), and as the Congress President, I would like toexpress my heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the 26th
International Congress of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine(ICCCLM) - IFCC WorldLab Congress, which was successfully held at theDubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from May 26 to May 30, 2024. The
WorldLab Congress Dubai was organized jointly with the 17th Congress of
the Arab Federation of Clinical Biology (AFCB), the 10th Annual Meeting of
the Saudi Society for Clinical Chemistry (SSCC), and the 8th Internationaland United Arab Emirates (UAE) Genetic Disorders Conference inpartnership with MZ Events.

Prof. Tomris Ozben
EuSpLM, Ph.D.

The WorldLab Congress brought together scientists, researchers,
clinicians, and experts from the in vitro diagnostics industry for arewarding five-day experience of scientific exploration and education.
I would like to share some brief statistical data about the Congress:2,045
delegates from 107 nations, 1,700 visitors, 255 faculty members, 600
exhibitors’ staff, and 39 companies, occupying 1,100 sqm of exhibitionarea, attended the Congress.
Preceding the main Congress, the 3rd IFCC FORUM for Young Scientists
was organized. The Forum was a resounding success, featuring many
young scientists (YS) as speakers and moderators. It was an excellent
opportunity for networking and sharing experiences among YS from allover the world. In the morning, the Forum participants received a visit
from Sheikh Theyab Bin Khalifa Bin Shakhbout Al Nahyan, who addressed
the participants with a speech highlighting the UAE’s programs insupport of Young Scientists. The YS also attended the main Congress
and participated in a competition involving a poster tour judged by bothjunior and senior scientists. The best three posters were awarded an IFCC
t-shirt.
On the occasion of the IFCC WorldLab Congress, the IFCC Council meeting
took place on Sunday, May 26th, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. After thepresentation of the Executive Board reports and IFCC Divisions’ Reports,
the last part of the Council meeting was allocated for a plenary discussion
with IFCC member societies and corporate members on the topics entitled“Current and Future Advances and Challenges in Laboratory Medicine.”
The WorldLab Congress began with the Opening Ceremony on
Sunday, 26th May 2024, at 5 pm. Following the welcome addressesof the Congress Organizing Committee members representing IFCC,
the Arab Federation of Clinical Biology (AFCB), the Saudi Society for
Clinical Chemistry (SSCC), and United Arab Emirates Genetic Diseases
Association (UAEGDA), the stimulating keynote lecture entitled “Pushing
forward the frontier of cfDNA diagnostics” was presented by Prof. Dennis
Lo from The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

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Message from the
IFCC President

The Scientific Program of the Congress had a multidisciplinary agenda, covering fundamental
concepts, advanced diagnostics, and cutting-edge techniques in laboratory medicine. Esteemedinternational speakers and key opinion leaders addressed diverse topics, including healthcare,recent diagnostic technologies, scientific breakthroughs, and emerging challenges.
The congress served as a platform to showcase the latest technologies and innovations inlaboratory medicine and explore their potential applications in healthcare.
Several IFCC Functional Units’ meetings were held during the Congress, bringing together the
Chairs and Members to discuss their activities and projects.
IFCC Executive Board (EB) members met with the IFCC Corporate members (CMs) to provide direct
and transparent communication between the IFCC EB and IFCC CMs.
The 2024 IFCC DISTINGUISHED AWARDS, selected by the IFCC Awards Committee, wereannounced at the Opening Ceremony and presented to the seven winners at the Awards
Ceremony dinner, held on Monday, 27th May 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Center.
My heartfelt thanks to the in vitro diagnostics sector; their continuous support and contributions
have made the success of this Congress possible. The In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) Sector played avital role in the Congress by organizing two essential activities: high-level Educational Workshops
on important topics, featuring eminent speakers presenting the latest scientific advances in all
disciplines relevant to laboratory medicine. The IVD Sector also organized an extensive exhibition,
providing attendees with a prime opportunity to explore recent technological advancements,
products, and services aimed at enhancing laboratory operations.
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the eminent speakers, chairs, IVD industry
representatives, and all the participants attending the Congress from different countries aroundthe world.
The exceptional hospitality of the United Arab Emirates Genetic Disorders Association (UAEGDA),
and the support and high interest of UAE high health authorities, several Ministers, and Sheikhs,
were highly appreciated by the congress organizers and attendees.
I would like to acknowledge and thank the Professional Congress Organizer (MZ Events) for their
dedicated efforts in organizing the congress successfully.
On this occasion, I would like to invite you to the next EuroMedLab and WorldLab Congresses. I
warmly invite you to join us at the 26th IFCC-EFLM EuroMedLab Congress, which will be hosted by
the Royal Belgian Society of Laboratory Medicine from May 18th to May 22nd, 2025, in Belgium,
Brussels, and I extend to you a warm invitation to attend the 27th WorldLab Congress, organizedjointly with the Asia and Pacific Federation of Clinical Chemistry (APFCB) and the Association ofClinical Biochemists of India (ACBI) in New Delhi, India, from October 25 to October 29, 2026.
I wish many successful congresses to be held and hope to meet you all at other scientific andeducational events.
Prof. Dr Tomris Ozben, EuSpLM, Ph.D., Full Professor of Clinical Biochemistry
IFCC, President
WorldLab Dubai 2024, Congress President5Call For Outcome Study Proposals

IFCC’s Task Force on Outcome Studies in Laboratory Medicine (TF-OSLM) is seeking research
proposals for studies evaluating the impact of laboratory testing on healthcare outcomes.
Study proposals should seek to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and impact of new and/or
commonly available medical laboratory tests and/or laboratory information on patient care outcomesin clinical practice. It is crucial for the proposed study to link the laboratory testing insights to patientmanagement, and improvements/changes in clinical outcomes (see below for details).
If you, in collaboration with your clinical colleagues are interested in applying please click here for full
eligibility criteria and details on how to apply.
All application are due by: [October 1, 2024]

6

GLOBAL MED LAB WEEK 2024 “LABS SAVE LIVES”
By Dr. María del Carmen Pasquel-Moxley, C-PR/CPD-IFCC Chair, WG-IANT Member-Ecuador, COLABIOCLINational Representative of Ecuador.

COMMITTEE PUBLIC RELATIONS (C-PR)- COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS DIVISION OF THE IFCC (C-PR/CPD-IFCC)
From left to right, top and bottom: Elisa Fossati (Italy), IFCC secretariat; Maria Pasquel-Moxley Chair of C-PR (Ecuador); Ronald
Khunga (Malawi), new member; María Schroeder (Uruguay), member and her little son Gabriel; Enrique Rodríguez (Spain), newmember; Prof. Rajiv Erasmus, C-PR past Chair (African Federation of Clinical Chemesgtry-AFCC, Federation Representative on
the IFCC); Ashishkumar Agravatt (India) new member; Meeting of March 14, 2024.

From April 22 to 28, Global Med Lab Week, which is the World Week of Clinical Laboratory
Professionals, was celebrated worldwide. You can visit their website at:www.globalmedlabweek.org
This special date serves as a significant occasion for all professionals engaged in Laboratory
Medicine, emphasizing the vital work dedicated to patient health care. We accomplish this mission by
providing clinically relevant results tailored to their specific needs. Notably, this initiative, organizedby the IFCC, marks its third consecutive year of implementation.
The Public Relations Committee (C-PR) of the IFCC is responsible for its coordination. In 2024,
each of its members, including three newcomers, demonstrated great dedication and enthusiasm

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Global Med Lab Week
2024 “Labs Save Lives”

in organizing the activities. Their efforts resulted in an outstanding job, with responses fromall six Federations comprising the IFCC: the African Federation of Clinical Chemistry (AFCC), theArab Federation of Clinical Biology (AFCB), the Asia Pacific Federation of Clinical Biochemistry
and Laboratory Medicine (APFCB), the Latin American Confederation of Clinical Biochemistry(COLABIOCLI), and the North American Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Medicine Laboratory(NAFCC).
Each member of the C-PR was assigned responsibility for activities within their respective regions.
These tasks were conducted through WhatsApp groups, either newly generated or pre-existing, tofacilitate communication and coordination.
It was also imperative to send multiple emails, both from the IFCC secretary and from the personal
email accounts of the five C-PR members: the Chair and four members, each hailing from different
regions of the world—Africa, India, Europe, and Latin America. This approach ensured that eachmember could focus on facilitating the activity within their respective regions.
The emails served as invitations to participate in this significant global event, providing guidelines
for creating videos or audio recordings. These submissions would subsequently be compiled into a
podcast. The theme for this year’s Global Med Lab Week was “Laboratories Save Lives.”
The Regional Representatives, National Representatives, and Champions of the countries played
instrumental roles in coordinating activities within their respective nations during this celebration.
A total of 61 videos were received, from which a selection of the top three was made. These winners
will be announced and honored at Worldlab Dubai. The selection process was challenging due to thehigh quality of submissions. Criteria considered included the clarity of the message “Laboratories
Save Lives,” the creativity in theme development, and the overall quality of the video, including
factors such as English subtitles, bilingual content, and visual and audio clarity.
Sixteen videos were carefully chosen and submitted to a special jury for evaluation. Each memberof the jury watched the videos and completed a rating form based on three criteria. This method
ensured impartiality throughout the process, as no one knew the ongoing results. The final
outcomes were revealed during the C-PR meeting held on May 6th.
Fifty podcasts and numerous short videos were professionally edited to enhance the promotion of
GMLW World across various social media platforms. All professionals who sent material to IFCC for
this activity received a certificate of participation.
Additionally, several countries organized academic events before, during, and after the GMLW2024
week, prominently featuring the GMLW2024 Logo. These events included professional activities
open to the public, complemented by the drafting of press releases.
It was also remarkable that Prof. Tomris Ozben, the President of IFCC, successfully advocated forher country, Turkey, to designate a permanent annual recognition period from April 22nd to 28th
for Clinical Laboratory Professionals by the Ministry of Public Health. This initiative serves as acommendable example for other countries to emulate, thereby solidifying and expanding the global
recognition of this vital celebration.
The young scientists comprising the C-PR and the IFCC TF-YS played a pivotal role in promoting
the event on social media platforms. This endeavor received additional support from professionals
employed by IFCC. The outcome was highly successful, as indicated by the report presented by thecompany. We extend an invitation to the entire IFCC community to join us on our official social media
channels as well as those dedicated to GMLW.
Banners and flyers were designed and disseminated to promote this global event, which continues

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Global Med Lab Week
2024 “Labs Save Lives”

to expand its reach and fulfill its objective. The overarching goal is to foster greater appreciation
and recognition within the community for the invaluable contributions of clinical Laboratory Medicine
professionals. It is essential for the public to understand that behind every result they receive, there
is a dedicated professional safeguarding their health and contributing to saving lives.
The activity conducted by the C-PR (Public Relations Committee) was characterized by its intensity,with Zoom meetings held every 15 days throughout March and April. Overcoming the challenge offinding a suitable time for all participants was a significant feat, considering the varying time zones.
While some found it early, others preferred afternoon or evening sessions. Nevertheless, the focus
remained on scheduling and executing the tasks at hand, including the development of new podcast
guides, videos, and extending support to National Representatives and Champions. Continuous
communication with countries within the assigned regions was also maintained.
The results achieved were diligently evaluated during each group meeting. Ultimately, with thecollective support and effort of everyone involved, a successful GMLW 2024 with the theme“Laboratories Save Lives” was realized.
Gratitude is extended to the authorities of IFCC, CPD, TF-YS, WG-IANT, the IFCC Internet and Digital
Communications Committee, as well as the dedicated staff of IFCC, Naranhaus, and Anmys, whose
unwavering support was instrumental in assisting the C-PR.
Acknowledgments are extended to colleagues and contributors who shared their experiences on“Why Labs Save Lives” through podcasts, videos, press releases, interviews, and other mediums.
Special thanks also go to those who actively promoted IFCC social networks during this significant
global celebration week.
Gratitude is extended to all individuals who organized scientific events in their respective countries
and engaged in various activities with their communities, thereby showcasing the invaluable natureof our profession.
All content shared in podcasts and videos will be made available on IFCC social networks, where it
can be viewed and shared.
Thank you once again. Success is the result of everyone’s efforts.
We look forward to seeing you at Global Med Lab Week 2025.

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Global Med Lab Week
2024 “Labs Save Lives”

www.globalmedlabweek.org

Ammy’s report he tells us that during the week of the GMLW there were 58,000 visits on Facebook,
we increased visits by 948% compared to the same dates last year

Stay connected with the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine(IFCC) on our social media platforms!🌐 Follow us on:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/IFClinChem/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ifclinchem/
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/IFClinChem
Telegram:https://t.me/ifclinchem
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifcc/
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@ifclinchem

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Global Med Lab Week
2024 “Labs Save Lives”

WATCH ALL OUR VIDEOS
https://www.youtube.com/@ifclinchem#GlobalMedLabWeek

🎤  LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ifcc#globalmedlabweek

https://globalmedlabweek.org/kit-to-download/

LINK OF THE 16 BEST VIDEOS SELECTED FOR THE PROJECT “LABS SAVE LIVES”, according to
the clarity of the message, according to their creativity to deliver the message and according to thequality of the video in audio, images, languages, subtitles. It was not an easy task for the jury.

LINK OF THE 16 BEST VIDEOS SELECTED FOR THE PROJECT “LABORATORS SAVE LIVES”
https://globalmedlabweek.org/es/los-laboratorios-salvan-vidas/
There was also intense activity on the GMLW social networks
Welcome to the Global MedLab Week 2024!
Labs Save Lives
Join and celebrate Med Lab Professionals around the world
Follow us on our social media platforms!🌐: When publishing on your networks remember to include
the main tag #globalmedlabweek and mention us using @globalmedlabweek

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Global Med Lab Week
2024 “Labs Save Lives”

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/GlobalMedLabWeek
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/globalmedlabweek
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/GMedLabWeek
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@globalmedlabweek-ifcc
Website:www.globalmedlabweek.org
Join us for the latest updates, news, and insights!
An initiative of the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC)#Globalmedlabweek#Labssavelives#IFCC #ClinicalChemistry #LabMedicine

Some flyers

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Global Med Lab Week
2024 “Labs Save Lives”

ww.globalmedlabweek.org
Thank you for participating and see you at the next GMLW 2025.

13

Global Medlab Week Celebrations in Pakistan
By Dr. Fatima Kanani, GMLW National Representative for Pakistan Society of Chemical Pathology

In line with the Global MedLab Week (GMLW), Pakistan also celebrated and honoured its lab
professionals with institutes holding academic and festive activities. Memon Medical Institute(MMI)
held a CME entitled “Know the hidden secrets of Phlebotomy- maintaining the integrity of preanalytical phase”. They also uploaded a podcast on their social media discussing the significance oflabs and their role in the medical field. Pivotal role of various clinical laboratory sections in patientcare was highlighted.
Indus Hospital and Health Network (IHHN) celebrated the GLMW with week-long, learning and fun
filled activities. There were two days of Continuous Medical Education (CMEs) by all sections of
the Clinical Laboratory. First CME was “Simplifying Method Validation: Lessons Learned from CAP
Accreditation”. After an overview of the overall accreditation process and requirements, various
sections of the Clinical Laboratory, namely Immunology, Chemical Pathology, Microbiology andMolecular Pathology presented topics related to the method validations and verifications from theirperspectives. Each presentation was followed by hands on activities. Winners of the pre and post
test quiz were awarded certificates and prizes.
Simultaneously, the Haematology Section conducted a CME on “Interpretation of Basic Haematology
Tests and Quality Checks”. Next day, there was a CME on Mystery of Cytogenetics, another one on“Elevating Blood Safety: Exploring Advancements in Transfusion Transmitted Infections” and one on“Immunohistochemistry in Histopathology Laboratory”.
Apart from these CMEs held centrally in Karachi chapter, other campuses also held equally exciting
webinars. Multan Institute of Kidney Diseases (MIKD) Campus held a webinar on Point of Care Testingin which a comprehensive talk on POCT pre-requisites, feasibility, types, techniques and challenges
was given. Jubilee Town Campus, Lahore held a much-needed webinar on “PT evaluations- Essential
Corrective and Preventive Measures”. Gwadar Campus held two CMEs, one on “Quality Control andQuality Assurance in Clinical Laboratory” and the second on “ADA 2024 Guidelines for Diagnosis ofDiabetes Mellitus”. Games and Cake cutting ceremonies were also conducted in the campuses.
The laboratory staff participated in an online quiz based on fifteen laboratory policies and Standard
Operating Procedures (SOPs). Then there was a full day devoted to a fun gala with food and games
stalls. The lab techs showed their creativity and skills in organizing innovative games, activities andamusements. Haematology Section came up with WBC cupcakes and hydration stations, Chemical
Pathology had a free eat-all-you-can competition and Microbiology Section had a Henna stallamongst others. There was a photobooth and a shout out stand to celebrate the lab techs.
The lab week closing ceremony was attended by the Hospital CEO, Medical Director and the
Network President. There were skits and tableaus presented by the different sections as well as apoetry competition. Winners were awarded certificates and gifts. There were prizes for best overall
performers in all categories, ranging from lab techs and supervisors to porters, lab drivers and house
keeping. The entire lab team were gifted with token gifts as well in appreciation of their hard workthroughout the year.
Aga Khan University Hospital and Indus Hospital and Health Network also contributed to GLMW on
IFCC social media platforms by contributing videos and podcasts. All in all, the GMLW in Pakistan
was celebrated enthusiastically and contributed to further recognition of laboratory professionals
amongst our clinical colleagues.

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Global Medlab Week
Celebrations in Pakistan

Award distribution at MMI

Podcast by MMI

Award distribution at Jubilee Campus, Lahore, IHHN

Cake cutting at Badin Campus, IHHN

Chemical Pathology Workshop at Karachi Campus, IHHN

CME at Gwadar Campus, IHHN

Lab staff at Muzaffargarh Campus, IHHN

Proud winners of Method Validation Quiz

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Global Medlab Week
Celebrations in Pakistan

Lab team with President and CEO, IHHN

16

17

IFCC: the Young Scientists
IFCC Young Scientists – Young scientist awarded at
WorldLab 2024 in DubaiMarie Lenski, French YS (Société Française de Biologie Clinique, SFBC), IFCC-TF-YS member
This year, one Young Scientist, Dr David Barthélémy, has been selected to receive the 2024 IFCC-Gérard
Siest Young Scientist Award for Distinguished Contributions in Pharmacogenetics, sponsored by Biologie
Prospective. This award recognizes an outstanding young investigator or young leader (under 40 years ofage) for his/her contribution to advancing the scientific discipline of pharmacogenomics and Personalized/
Precision Medicine and/or its impact on research, development, standardization, quality management,
regulatory evaluation or utilization in therapy.
Dr David Barthélémy is a young specialist in laboratory medicine (PharmD, PhD) who joined the
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department of the Hospices Civils de Lyon, France, in 2018. He also
currently teaches pharmacology at the Faculty of Pharmacy (ISPB, UCBL1) and conducts his research at
the Center for Innovation in Oncology of Lyon (UR3738 CICLY). His research activities in pharmacogenetics
aim to improve sequencing technologies and evaluate the variability of pharmacogenetic profiles forcomplex pharmacogenes such as CYP2D6, UGT1A1, and NAT2. The IFCC Task Force - Young Scientists(IFCC TF-YS) seized the opportunity to interview Dr Barthélémy during the 26th WorldLab - IFCC
International Congress in Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine held in Dubai (UAE) from 26th to30th May 2024.

Could you please define pharmacogenetics?
Pharmacogenetics is the branch of genetics that studies how an individual’s genetic makeup affects
their response to drugs. This field aims to understand the genetic factors that contribute to variations
in drug efficacy and toxicity, allowing for more personalized and effective treatments. Key goals ofpharmacogenetics include identifying genetic pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) markers
that predict drug response, optimizing therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), and minimizing adverse drug
reactions. By integrating genetic information into drug therapy, pharmacogenetics seeks to enhance thesafety and effectiveness of medical treatments for individual patients.

What are the main applications of pharmacogenetics in clinics?
Pharmacogenetics has significant clinical applications across various medical fields. In mental health,
it tailors psychotropic drugs to individual patients, improving efficacy and reducing adverse effects. In
oncology, it predicts toxicities to chemotherapies like thiopurines and fluoropyrimidines, allowing forsafer treatment. In internal medicine and transplantation, it optimizes the use of immunosuppressantssuch as calcineurin inhibitors and thiopurines. In vascular medicine and cardiology, it guides the useof anticoagulants, including VKAs and DOACs, to reduce bleeding or thrombotic risks. Additionally, inpain management, it helps select and dose opioids for more effective and safer pain relief. Overall,
pharmacogenetics enhances personalized treatment and improves patient outcomes.

What are the analytical technics that could be used in pharmacogenetics?
At the Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL), pharmacogenetic analyses employ two main strategies. For highurgency cases requiring rapid results, techniques like TaqMan PCR and Sanger sequencing are used to
predict drug toxicities for fluoropyrimidines (DPYD), topoisomerase inhibitors (UGT1A1), thiopurines (TPMT,Article continued on the next page18

IFCC Young Scientists - Young scientist
awarded at WorldLab 2024 in Dubai

NUDT15, ITPA), and isoniazid (NAT2). For moderate urgency cases, second-generation (short read)and third-generation (long read) sequencing methods analyze a broad panel of genes involved in
the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of various drugs, including psychotropics,
anticoagulants, certain anticancer drugs, and analgesics. This comprehensive approach provides
a detailed pharmacogenetic profile, enhancing personalized treatment by assessing the patient’s
genetic influence on drug metabolism and therapeutic targets.

Why did you choose to work on pharmacogenetics?
At the beginning of my medical biology residency, I was initially interested in tumor biology. At thattime, I associated therapeutic personalization exclusively with the characteristics of the patient’s
tumor. This concept of precision medicine tailored to the tumor’s characteristics fascinated me
and guided my specialization in this field. However, midway through my residency, a remarkableprofessional opportunity arose. My mentors, Professors Léa PAYEN and Jérôme GUITTON,
proposed that I specialize in pharmacotoxicology with a strong focus on pharmacogenetics todevelop this sector at the Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL). This marked my transition from somatic
pharmacogenetics (tumor biology) to constitutional pharmacogenetics. This journey revealed
to me the true meaning and future of personalized medicine : medicine adapted to the genetic
characteristics of each patient across a wide range of pathologies and pharmacological classes.
Finally, I find it highly rewarding, as a pharmacist, to bring this expertise to clinicians, combining
genetics and in-depth pharmacological knowledge.

What is your daily activity in pharmacogenetics, both in clinics and in research?
In my daily activities in pharmacogenetics, I balance clinical and research responsibilities. Clinically,
I review patients’ genetic profiles to provide personalized medication recommendations, oversee
genetic testing using techniques like TaqMan PCR and next-generation sequencing, and collaborate
with clinicians from various specialties to integrate pharmacogenetic data into patient care. I
also educate and train healthcare professionals on pharmacogenetics. In research, I design andconduct projects to explore new pharmacogenetic markers, analyze genetic data to inform clinicalpractices, and publish findings in scientific journals. Additionally, I stay updated on advancements insequencing technologies and bioinformatics, integrating these innovations to enhance the accuracy
and efficiency of pharmacogenetic analyses. This dual role allows me to contribute to personalized
medicine by improving patient outcomes and advancing scientific knowledge in pharmacogenetics.

Do you have any advice to a Young Scientist that would like to specialize inpharmacogenetics?
To specialize in pharmacogenetics, build a strong foundation in genetics, molecular biology, andpharmacology. Staying updated on the latest research and technologies, and seek mentorshipfrom experienced professionals, this point is essential. Gain practical experience through research
projects and clinical rotations, and develop, if it is possible, skills in bioinformatics and data
analysis. Perform interdisciplinary collaboration and enhance your communication skills to explain
pharmacology and genetic concepts effectively. Always adhere to ethical guidelines, respecting
patient privacy and informed consent. Be patient and persistent, as the field can be challenging, andactively network by connecting with other scientists and joining professional organizations. These
steps will help you succeed in advancing personalized medicine.
I thank my mentor, Professor Lea Payen, for her learning and training qualities, Dr. Delphine COLLINCHAVAGNAC for recommending me for this award, the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry
and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC), SFBC, BIOLOGIE PROSPECTIVE, and the IFCC Young Scientists task
force for supporting this nomination.

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19

IFCC Young Scientists - Young scientist
awarded at WorldLab 2024 in Dubai

Dr David Barthélémy, winner of the 2024 IFCC-Gérard Siest

The IFCC Young Scientists: Ashlin Rampul, Santiago Fares

Young Scientist Award for Distinguished Contributions inTaie, Marie Lenski, David Barthélémy, Sean Campell, Jose

Pharmacogenetics, sponsored by Biologie Prospective.

Larramendi

IFCC Distinguished Awards (L-R): IFCC Awards Committee Chair and IFCC Past President; Prof Adeli, Dr Barthélémy, Awardwinner, IFCC President; Prof Ozben, Dr Siest, Biologie Prospective, Award Sponsor

20

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21

IFCC Young Scientists – YS excursion to the University Cityof Sharjah
By Judit GONDA, Hungarian YS

Sharjah, UAE, 29 May 2024, Wednesday
During the WorldLab 2024 Dubai congress, besides the excellent YS Forum held on Sunday, Young
Scientists had an opportunity to make a full-day visit on 29 May to the University City of Sharjah.
Sharjah is the northern neighbouring emirate of Dubai and the third-most populous city in the United
Arab Emirates.
The warm hospitality and the preparedness of our hosts were fascinating and gave a very good start
to the day.
Firstly, we were taken to Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP), where Aisha
AlKhayyal (Sharjah Advanced Industry Accelerator Lead at SRTIP) and her colleagues introduced
us to the institution and showed us around the facility. The Park is focused on promoting research,technology, and innovation in various fields, including healthcare, energy, environment, andtechnology. The institution aims to create a collaborative platform for academic institutions,businesses, and government agencies to work together to promote innovation, research andcutting-edge technology. We visited the SoiLAB (Sharjah Open Innovation Lab), the 3D studio and theElectronics lab and had an opportunity to look closely at the current projects.
Our second program was a guided bus tour through the whole University City. We were amazed by
the modern and impressive architecture of the different university and academy buildings and also
by the great variety of high educational facilities. Even some landmarks of Sharjah, such as the ClockTower were shown to us.
Thereafter, Dr Fadi Aloul, the dean of the College of Engineering, American University of Sharjah(AUS) introduced us to the high-ranked university. The AUS is globally recognised for its outstanding
and innovative teaching, learning, research and creative work that has a positive and distinctive
impact on the region and beyond. Dr Amin Majdalawieh (Professor and head of the department at
Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Science) and Dr Hasan Alnashash (Professor of ElectricalEngineering) told us about their faculties, the multidisciplinary programs in biomedical engineering,
one of the fastest-growing engineering disciplines worldwide, and the possible collaboration
opportunities. They showed us around the excellent engineering science laboratories where we
could have a look at their current research activities and daily work.
Our next program was a visit to the University of Sharjah Medical Campus Research Institute for
Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS). The RIMHS excels in its new research environment, with
its schools of biomedical/biotechnology sciences, dental medicine, medicine and pharmacy. They
take an interest in laboratory basic sciences and clinical, behavioural, and public health. We visited
cutting-edge technology laboratories for drug design, discovery and delivery and gene editing andtherapy.
Lastly, we visited the Holy Quran Academy. The Academy was established to serve the Quran andits sciences by taking care of the Holy Quran in all its forms in manuscript, print, audio and digitaland the introduction of related sciences and its pillars, in addition to developing the skills of thoseinterested and working in the field of the Quran. The Academy includes several museums, they offer
scientific courses and have a specialised library.
We returned to Dubai at the end of the day with broadened scientific horizons and culturalexperience. Our hosts did not just give us an interesting and enjoyable insight into the scientific lifeof the University City of Sharjah but we were also warmly welcomed in all facilities and we were even

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22

IFCC Young Scientists - YS excursion
to the University City of Sharjah

taken care of in the hot weather with refreshing Arabic coffee served with dates and delicious lunch.
Many thanks to Dr Shaikha Almazrouei for organising our trip and to Fady AbdulNasser AbuKhadra
for coordinating our group through the whole day!

23

IFCC Young Scientists – 1st young scientists poster sessionat WorldLab 2024 in DubaiMarie LENSKI, French YS (Société Française de Biologie Clinique, SFBC), IFCC-TF-YS member
Claudia IMPERIALI, Spanish YS (Spanish Society for Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Pathology
SECQ), IFCC-TF-YS member
The 26th WorldLab - IFCC International Congress in Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine
was held in Dubai (UAE) from May 26th to 30th, 2024. In addition to the 3rd young scientist forum
organized on Sunday, May 26th, 2024, the IFCC Task Force - Young Scientists (IFCC TF-YS) organized
the 1st « Young Scientist poster tour ». The objective was to encourage young scientists to share
their high-quality scientific work by giving an oral presentation of their posters. Young professionals
had 5 minutes to present and 5 minutes to answer questions to defend their work in front of a jury
made up of two members: one IFCC officer and one member of the IFCC TF-YS. In addition, congress
participants could take as audience members.
A total of 60 young scientists participated to this activity, along with 20 jury members. All
participants received a certificate of participation, and ten young scientists were selected for theBest poster presentation award.
The IFCC TF-YS would like to thank the IFCC officers who participated or offered their participationin this activity. The Young Scientists Poster Tour received great support from IFCC officers, andthe young Scientists received extremely valuable feedback from them, both in terms of scientificcontent and form. This feedback will be of great interest to them to buid their carrers as laboratory
professionals and future leaders.
This first edition of the Young scientists Poster Tour at WorldLab Dubai was great success. The IFCCTF-YS is planning to repeat this activity in the next EFLM-IFCC congress 2025 in Brussels, Belgium,in collaboration with the EFLM Task-Group Young Scientists (EFLM TG-YS) and groups of YS fromnational federations of specialists in laboratory medicine.

24Absolute Success of the Third Young Scientist Forum in
Dubai
By Task Force Young Scientist members (Tara Rolić, Josep Miquel Bauçà, Kamil Taha Uçar and Marie
Lenski)

The 3rd Young Scientist Forum provided attendees, speakers, moderators, and organizers witha fantastic opportunity to present their specific and professional work and connect with young
colleagues from around the world facing similar challenges and sharing the same enthusiasm
for their profession. Held at the Conrad Hotel in Dubai, UAE, just before the opening of the 26th
International Congress of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, the forum saw over 200
registered young scientists.
Participants had a wonderful chance to exchange knowledge and experiences about their daily
work and research by presenting their scientific pathways. The first session, coordinated byMarie Lenski (France) and Tamar Ramishvili (Georgia), focused on digital technology innovations
in laboratory medicine. Jonatas Barbosa Garcez (Portugal) discussed the need for quality control
for eGFR in clinical settings, while Tara Rolić (Croatia) presented on calculating reference intervals
for thyroid hormones using an indirect approach. Mia Gruzin (Australia) introduced a novel tool for
improving the quality of genetic pathology post-analytical reports, and Layla Dawood (UAE) talked
about interpretable machine learning in dementia. During the coffee break, participants had thehonor of being welcomed by Sheik Theyab Bin Khalifa Bin Shakhbout Al Nahyan, who wished them aprosperous future.
The second session, designed following young scientists’ initiative to organize case series webinars,
was coordinated by Udara Senarathne (Sri Lanka) and Claudia Imperiali (Spain). It featured casereports from Danda Vasconcelos Santos Milena (Brazil), Laura Valina (Spain), Hamudin Mohd Amirul(Malaysia), and Zeenath Thaneeda Mohamed Thowfeek (Sri Lanka) : Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
in Brazil, Clonal Isotype Switch: phenomenon after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation,
Uncommon Detection of Monoclonal Proteins in Alpha 2 Region on Serum Protein Electrophoresis:
A Case Series and Unlocking the Mystery of Hirata Syndrome: A Fascinating Journey ThroughRecurrent Hypoglycemia and the Intricacies of Insulin Autoimmune Syndrome (IAS). The session
concluded with a discussion table where attendees had the unique opportunity to ask questions
and comment on their own case reports.
The third and most interactive session was coordinated by Kamil Taha Uçar (Turkey) and Santiago
Fares Taie (Argentina). This session was truly inspiring for both future and current leaders, thanks
to the perspective into the laboratory of the future. Sean Campbell (USA) started the session by
dividing attendees into groups to discuss leadership and mentorship challenges. Ashlin Rampul(South Africa) presented Mandela’s principles of leadership, highlighting aspects that young
scientists can do to improve in their lives and positions. Atwi Maya (UAE) inspired attendees withher work on unlocking cancer’s secrets and the key role of stem cells. Josep Miquel Bauçà (Spain)delved into the psychology of leadership and management, discussing personality traits and theirimpact on an effective communication and time management. The session concluded with Sibtain
Ahmed (Pakistan) discussing the pros and cons of POCT, followed by a fruitful discussion on user
experiences.
Based on the impressions of the moderators, speakers, and attendees, the forum was a wonderful
and truly successful event. Thanks to the remarkable support of the IFCC and notable figures suchas Prof. Tomris Ozben, Prof. Khosrow Adeli, Dr. Maryam Matar, Dr. Eduardo Freggiaro, Dr. Alvaro
Justiniano, and Prof. Rajiv Erasmus, the forum provided a fruitful scientific, professional, and personal
networking experience. Young scientists from all over the world showcased their knowledge andpushed forward the boundaries of their field. As even the senior participants concluded, young
scientists are not the future of laboratory medicine; they are today’s leaders. Until the next forum,
keep up the excellent work and strive for the best.

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Absolute Succes of the Third Young
Scientist Forum in Dubai

26

IFCC WorldLab 2024 – Dubai through Young Scientists’ Eyes
By Task Force Young Scientist members (Tara Rolić, Josep Miquel Bauçà, Kamil Taha Uçar and Marie
Lenski)

Milena Danda Vasconcelos Santos
Waldemar Santos Laboratory – Brazil
Participating in the IFCC YS Forum helped updating and expanding
my knowledge on laboratory medicine, with a broader view on thecurrent trends and challenges. I also had the opportunity to present myresearch and receive constructive feedback. It was a great opportunity
to share my experience in Brazil with researchers from all over the world.
The connection with researchers with similar interests will enable futurecollaborations, explore new pathways eventually inspiring new projects
that aim for better lab testing.

Mohd Amirul
Hospital Ampang - Malaysia
Attending the IFCC Congress in Dubai was a truly remarkable andenriching experience, which was made possible by the generous IFCC
Travel Grant Scholarship. As a young Chemical Pathology trainee thiswas my first international scientific congress, and the atmosphere was
exhilarating. One of the highlights was the opportunity to present myresearch during the elevator pitch session. The chance to share mywork and receive feedback from experts in the field was an unparalleledlearning opportunity. The congress itself was a treasure of knowledge,
covering a wide range of topics in laboratory medicine.
Shimaa Ezzat Elshenawy
Egypt Center for Research & Regenerative Medicine – Egypt
Attending the forum was truly unique. Listening to young researchers
from all over the world discuss their work provided invaluable insights
into current global trends and cutting-edge research. The sessions onleadership and career development were particularly inspiring. The most
special aspect for me was the friendships I forged. I had the pleasure ofconnecting with two amazing researchers from Spain and South Africa,
and we truly enjoyed our time together. Beyond that, the discussions I
had with all the participants and established scientists were incredibly
valuable. I gained so much from their advice and experience. An
additional highlight was connecting with the African Federation ofClinical Chemistry (AFCC).

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Dubai through Young
Scientists’ Eyes

Elcy Tufenkjy
University of Aleppo, Faculty of Pharmacy Aleppo - Syria
It is my pleasure and honour to have the opportunity to attend the IFCC
Forum took place on 26th May, that was one of the most distinctive
occasions, served as a platform for young scientists from aroundthe world to present their research, exchange experiences, forge
relationships and discuss potential collaborations. It was an extremely
wonderful and rich experience, where I really enjoyed the inspiringand stimulating talks. I would like to thank all the organizers of suchsuccessful forum, especially Dr. Santiago and Dr. Shaikha.

Betselot Zerihun
Ethiopian Public Health Institute -Ethiopia
Being awarded the travel scholarship was a tremendous opportunity forme. Initially, I thought the IFCC was solely focused on clinical chemistry.
However, attending these events broadened my understanding of the
IFCC scope and activities. I discovered that the IFCC encompasses awide range of laboratory sciences, including clinical chemistry, moleculardiagnostics, laboratory management, and more. This realization opened
my eyes to the diverse opportunities and fields within laboratory
medicine that I had not previously considered.

Sudhahar Tamizhan
Dept of Biochemistry, AIIMS Rishikesh - India
Vanakkam! Namasthe! It was One of the best International Conferences!
At the IFCC YS Forum, I was particularly impressed by the depth of
discussions around emerging technologies and their potential torevolutionize patient care. The passion and creativity displayed by
the young scientists were palpable, creating an environment ripe
for networking and the cultivation of future leaders in the field. The
keynote presentations were not only informative but also motivational,emphasising the critical role that innovation and interdisciplinary
collaboration play in advancing healthcare. I was part of the Young
Scientists Forum which opened my eyes Innovation, Extraordinary
development and Applications.
Rupali Bains
Dept of Biochemistry, AIIMS Rishikesh - India
My best experience at the IFCC YS Forum on May 26th was witnessing
the dynamic exchange of innovative ideas among young scientists,
fostering a sense of collaboration and inspiration. The forum’s vibrantatmosphere highlighted the potential for groundbreaking advancements
in clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine.

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Dubai through Young
Scientists’ Eyes

Melisa Florentin
Dermatology Specialties Center - Paraguay
The opportunity to interact with young scientists from around the world,working in different areas of laboratory sciences, allowed me to broaden
my perspective and see science from different angles. It was fascinating
to learn about the new advancements, technologies, and discoveries
in this field. The most surprising thing was the passion and dedicationthat all participants had for science. We were all united by the desire to
make a difference in the world through our work in the laboratory. The
words of motivation and encouragement from the experts present at
the Young Scientist Forum resonated with me and made me realize theimportance of my work as a scientist.
David Chisompola
Arthur Davison Children Hospital – Zambia
My best experience at the IFCC YS Forum was realizing that we, theyouth, are the future of science. Witnessing the vibrant exchange ofknowledge and innovative ideas among young scientists from diverse
backgrounds was incredibly inspiring. The collaborative atmosphereand passion for engaging in research to advance science made it anunforgettable experience.

Kim G. Sarong
Silliman University – Philippines
Attending the IFCC Young Scientists Forum on May 26th, 2024, at theConrad Hotel in Dubai was a remarkable experience, highlighted by
the insightful presentations and dynamic discussions on cutting-edge
advancements in clinical chemistry. The networking opportunities withfellow young scientists from around the world were invaluable, fosteringcollaboration and inspiring future innovations in the field.

Ratna Apriyanti
Prodia Clinical Laboratory – Indonesia
It was a very valuable experience for me to have the opportunity toattend the 3rd Young Scientist Forum IFCC which was held on 26 May
2024 in Dubai. YS Forum has become a forum for exchanging ideas andlearning about new research that can provide mutual insight into thescope of research and work of fellow scientists in various countries
and also learn about leadership and laboratory management which isvery useful. Of course, we will have a wider network around the world
scientists. I would like to thank you for all the committee members who
made this forum success.

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Dubai through Young
Scientists’ Eyes

Marina Shah
Universiti Malaya and Hospital Kuala Lumpur - Malaysia
As an introvert, I initially felt overwhelmed by the enthusiastic crowd
at the Young Scientists Forum. However, the forum provided a great
platform for networking, sharing ideas, and learning from peers.
Witnessing the passion of these young researchers in improving theirrespective healthcare sectors inspired me greatly. I am very glad tohave been given the opportunity to be there. Looking forward to future
activities by YS-TF.

Milad Khorasani
Neyshabur university of medical sciences – IranThe Young Researchers Session served as a springboard for young
professionals like me to showcase our work, receive constructive
feedback, and engage in stimulating discussions. It provided a valuable
opportunity to expand my understanding of cutting-edge technologies
and methodologies shaping the future of biochemistry. A standout
experience during the congress was the visit to Sharjah. Exploring thisallowed me to interact with scholars from diverse backgrounds, fostering
a deeper appreciation for global perspectives in scientific research.

Hira Azeem
Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi – Pakistan
I am deeply honoured to have attended the IFCC Forum on May 26th.
Attending the IFCC Young Scientists Forum was a transformative
experience that allowed me to network with peers and learn fromleading experts in the field. It was truly an inspiring event. Thisesteemed event offered young scientists from around the world aplatform to showcase their research, exchange experiences, build
connections, and explore potential collaborations. I extend my heartfelt
gratitude to all the organizers for orchestrating such a successful forum,with special thanks to Dr. Santiago and Dr. Shaikha.
Monica Dugăeşescu
Fundeni Clinical Institute, Bucharest, Romania
My first participation in the IFCC Forum for Young Scientists exceeded
my expectations! I am thrilled to work in a field alongside such motivatedand hardworking peers. Meeting you in person was an honor, and I
look forward to many more opportunities to connect, collaborate, andadvance the field of laboratory medicine together. Under the IFCC
umbrella, we, as young scientists in laboratory medicine, must build
a strong community. Each of us can contribute to making this goala reality, and the Forum was a powerful reminder of our collective
potential.

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Dubai through Young
Scientists’ Eyes

Rana Khanafsa
Palestinian Medical Laboratory Association - Palestine
Attending the IFCC YS Forum on May 26th was an enlightening
experience that allowed me to connect with like-minded professionals
and gain invaluable insights into the latest advancements in clinicalchemistry. I am eager to share these insights with you all, as theengaging discussions and collaborative environment made it a truly
memorable and inspiring event.

Dipesh Tamrakar
Nepal Association for Medical Laboratory Sciences (NAMLS) – Nepal
The IFCC YS Forum on May 26, 2024, was my very first experienceattending a live session of an international conference. There was anelectrifying and inspiring atmosphere of passionate young scientists
from diverse backgrounds who shared groundbreaking ideas, fosteringcollaboration and innovation that promised to shape the future oflaboratory medicine. I am delighted by the event and excited to attend
more of such events soon.

Marilyn Masih
Govind Ballabh Pant Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education andResearch – India
Attending the IFCC conference in Dubai was an unparalleled andenlightening experience for me. I sincerely thank the IFCC World Lab
Congress and the IFCC young scientists-task force for their warm
reception. The conference significantly boosted my confidence as I
engaged with brilliant minds from around the globe, sharing my researchwith them. The “Poster Tour” organized by the IFCC Task Force YS,
helped me gain knowledge and insights about the latest breakthroughs
in my research field and was immensely motivating.
Nick Narinx
Department of Laboratory Medicine, UZ Leuven, Leuven -Belgium
Attending the Young Scientists meeting on the first day of WorldLab
Dubai 2024 was a great pleasure. It allowed me to meet and interact withmy peer group, share best practices, and discuss career development
strategies in an engaging and supportive environment.

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Dubai through Young
Scientists’ Eyes

Eiman Mohammad Shahrour
Tishreen University, Lattakia - Syria
Being able to receive a Young Scientist travel grant and participate IFCCWorldLab 2024 as a delegate of young scientist for my country (SYRIA)
was a prestigious opportunity for me. This motivates me to continue
pursuing my passion for thinking outside the box especially which isrelated to diagnosing and treating diseases. It was really a fruitfulexperience on several levels.

Emeline GERNEZ
Lille University Hospital - France
Receiving the IFCC scholarship was an extraordinary opportunitythat allowed me to participate in this prestigious congress. The IFCCWorldLab 2024 in Dubai was an incredibly enriching experience, bothscientifically and personally. Attending this forum enabled me to update
and expand my knowledge in laboratory medicine, gaining insights intocurrent trends and challenges in the field. I had the honor of presenting
my research and receiving constructive feedback from experts
worldwide. The stimulating discussions and exchanges with other young
scientists were immensely inspiring, reinforcing my motivation andcommitment to scientific excellence.
Chala Bashea
Ethiopian Public Health Institute – Ethiopia
Receiving the IFCC scholarship was an extraordinary opportunitythat allowed me to participate in this prestigious congress. The IFCCWorldLab 2024 in Dubai was an incredibly enriching experience, bothscientifically and personally. Attending this forum enabled me to update
and expand my knowledge in laboratory medicine, gaining insights intocurrent trends and challenges in the field. I had the honor of presenting
my research and receiving constructive feedback from experts
worldwide. The stimulating discussions and exchanges with other young
scientists were immensely inspiring, reinforcing my motivation andcommitment to scientific excellence.
Janani Ramesh
ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Chennai-India
Attending the IFCC WorldLab 2024 was a truly unforgettable experience.
It provided a platform to learn about the current advances in the fieldof Clinical Chemistry. The 3rd IFCC Young Scientists Forum on May 26th
was particularly enriching. Collaborating and networking with young
scientists from across the globe was inspiring. The “mentor-mentee“session during the forum gave us the opportunity to brainstorm
various ideas regarding lab management and other issues faced by abudding laboratory physician. I also had the opportunity to interact with
distinguished faculties from various parts of the world. Looking forward
to taking part in more YS-TF activities.

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Dubai through Young
Scientists’ Eyes

Dipuo Dephney Motshwar
Cape Peninsula University of Technology - South Africa
I am immensely grateful to the African Federation of Clinical Chemistry(AFCC) for the travel sponsorship. A highlight was the IFCC Young
Scientists Forum 3rd edition, where I had the opportunity to present
my poster on fructosamine-3-kinase genetic polymorphisms andwas awarded the best poster presentation certificate. The congressfeatured inspiring talks, including Professor Dennis Lo’s lecture on cfDNA
diagnostics, and covered crucial topics in laboratory medicine. Hosting
the AFCC booth allowed for valuable networking, and exploring Dubai,with its impressive blend of modernity and heritage, was unforgettable.
I am thankful for the professional and personal growth this experience
provided.
Don M Matshazi
South Africa
Attending the IFCC WorldLab 2024 in Dubai was such a humbling
experience for me on so many levels. To be exposed to the cuttingedge research being conducted around the world, meet people I havecited on some of my publications and have an opportunity to interact
with young scientists and emerging researchers from all corners of the
globe was the biggest highlight of my year. I want to express my sincere
gratitude to the conference organising committee, the IFCC, and AFCC
for the opportunity to showcase my research on the poster tour. It is
encouraging to note the unwavering support for young scientists fromindustry, and the IFCC and its members/affiliates.
Lisa Tamang Ghising
B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences – Nepal
As a recent MD Biochemistry graduate, I was immensely elated toparticipate in the magnificent IFCC Forum for Young Scientists. The
forum offered an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas with brilliant
young minds and meet exceptionally talented mentors and laboratory
medicine professionals from all around the globe. I learned different
cutting-edge research, innovations in the field and delighted to witness
the active collaboration and integration of laboratory medicine by
the enthusiastic Young Scientists Task Force. I express my profoundgratitude to the IFCC for granting me with Travel Scholarship andenabling my debut at an international conference, for my professional
development.
Attila Ádám Szabó
University of Debrecen – Hungary
Attending the 26 th International Congress of Clinical Chemistry andLaboratory Medicine and the 3 rd IFCC Young Scientist Forum wasan unforgettable experience and a great opportunity to expand myknowledge, to share my results and ideas with many talented young
researchers and to make lifelong friendships with young scientists fromall over the world. Discussing on each other’s poster presentations
widened my interest and pointed on possible future collaborations. I amvery thankful for the organisers to make this inspiring event come true.

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Dubai through Young
Scientists’ Eyes

Zeenath Thaneefa
North Colombo Teaching Hospital – Sri Lanka
In the IFCC WorldLab 2024, I had an enriching experience exploring
the latest advancements in clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine.
The diverse range of presentations and workshops provided valuable
insights into cutting-edge research and technology. Networking
with professionals from around the globe further enhanced myunderstanding and passion for this dynamic field, leaving me inspired
and motivated to contribute more effectively to healthcare throughlaboratory sciences.

Asma LAKHDARI
Pierre and Marie Curie Center - Algeria
I had the privilege to participate in the Young Scientists Forum in Dubai,
which centered on clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine. This event
gathered researchers and students worldwide to explore cutting-edge
advancements in these crucial fields of medical science. Presentations
encompassed diverse topics, from biomarker analysis to innovative
diagnostic technologies. This experience not only allowed me to engage
with passionate scientists but also fostered insightful discussions thatdeepened my commitment to scientific inquiry. In summary, the Forumserved as a valuable platform for learning and inspiration, significantly
enriching my academic and professional journey in clinical chemistry andlaboratory medicine.
Alex Maleti
Chinsali General Hospital -Zambia
Attending the IFCC YS Forum in Dubai was a remarkable experience thatsignificantly enriched my understanding and perspective on laboratory
science. It provided insights into the innovative research efforts by
young talents addressing diverse challenges through evidence-based
medicine. I intend to share these innovations and ideas with my peers
in Zambia. The forum was inspiring and offered valuable networking
opportunities, allowing me to interact with some of the most brilliant
minds in the field.

Pavithra Samarakoon
Sri Lanka
As a medical professional working in a laboratory set up, and making
physicians to understand the importance of laboratory medicine
as a part of patient care, it was an important opportunity to see
and experience the advancement of the laboratory medicine at theinternational level. Also to learn how this could be applied in our local set
up for patients’ benefit. And it was great to feel “belonged” in a world oflaboratory sciences and young scientists with same enthusiasm.

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Dubai through Young
Scientists’ Eyes

Juliyatin Putri Utami
University of Lambung Mangkurat – Indonesia
Young Scientist Forum in Dubai was my second event. I found that every
year YS-TF always brought up to date, rich and delightful issue aboutlaboratory medicine to all young scientists. I am glad to be part of thisevent.

Simbarashe N Mapurisa
Zimbabwe
The conference takeaway for me was the importance of networking
and prioritizing continuous professional development to meetglobal standards. Attending the World Lab conference was bothan achievement and a wake-up call as it highlighted the need for
improvement. I have embraced this new challenge and am committed
to enhancing my skills, inspired by the excellence displayed by young
scientists from diverse countries. This experience has transformed myperspective on my work, and I now recognize the vital role researchers
play in driving progress in our labs and our country. I hope I will inspireyoung scientists in our country so that future international conferences
will have more representatives from Zimbabwe.
Menaka Balasooriya
Sri Lanka
Participating in the IFCC YS Forum was instrumental in updating andexpanding my knowledge of laboratory medicine, providing me witha comprehensive understanding of current trends and challenges in
the field. Additionally, I had the opportunity to present my researchand receive valuable constructive feedback. This experience was aremarkable platform to share my work from Sr Lanka with researchers
worldwide. The connections I made with researchers who share similarinterests will foster future collaborations, explore new avenues, andpotentially inspire innovative projects aimed at enhancing lab testing.
Roula Shakkour
Damascus University, Damascus – Syria
Attending the IFCC Young Scientists Forum on 26 May in Dubai was anhonour. I had the chance to meet esteemed colleagues from all aroundthe world, gain insights into their latest research work, share thoughts
and make new friendships.I also got the chance to recognize otherprogrammes offered by the IFCC such as IFCC Professional exchange
programmes. It was an extraordinary experience that enriched me on
scientific and humanitarian levels.

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Dubai through Young
Scientists’ Eyes

36

Contribute to IFCC eNews
Tips for Success when Applying for Global Recognition
Through the UNIVANTS of Healthcare Excellence award
program

The UNIVANTS of Healthcare Excellence award program is a global, prestigious award program
that, through 8 prestigious program partners, including Abbott, International Federation of Clinical
Chemistry (IFCC), Association for Diagnostics and Laboratory Medicine (ADLM), Modern Healthcare,
National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ), European Health Management Association(EHMA), Institute of Health Economics (IHE), Healthcare Information and Management Systems
Society (HIMSS), seeks to recognize, amplify, and celebrate best practices in healthcare that are
facilitated by laboratory medicine.
Laboratory medicine is essential to health care and a strategic asset for maximizing value andimproving healthcare delivery. The opportunity to showcase and celebrate cross-disciplinary
achievements associated with measurable differences in health care is unique, rewarding, andelevating for laboratory medicine.
On August 1st, 2024, the UNIVANTS of Healthcare Excellence award program opens the 2025
application process, enabling online submissions through until November 15th, 2024 via the
UNIVANTS website. For those looking for recommendations on how to maximize your potential
application, see below for relevant tips and best practices associated with applications for the
UNIVANTS of Healthcare Excellence award program.

Tip 1: Closely review eligibility criteria and program requirements.
Ensuring program eligibility is a crucial first step when applying to UNIVANTS. Eligibility criteria andrequirements are available at www.UnivantsHCE.com. The website offers links to a reference guideand multiple tools that help support the application process, with additional insights, tips and howto’s for highlighting the value of your work through UNIVANTS.

Tip 2. Proofread all content for clarity, legibility, and completeness.
Ensuring that all aspects of your application are clear, legible and complete is a simple and easy way
to ensure that your clinical care initiative and associated outcomes are more readily understood.
The terminology used within the application should be easy to understand and globally relevant.
As such, be sure to define all acronyms and avoid short-hand or local terms that might not beuniversally understood.

Article continued on the next page37

Success Tips for UNIVANTS
Healthcare Excellence Award

Tip 3. Learn from other best practices.
The UNIVANTS website proudly highlights example best practices from years prior who have beenrecognized by the UNIVANTS of Healthcare Excellence awards. Learning from previous examples,
where teams have successfully achieved measurably better healthcare with global recognition
through the UNIVANTS of Healthcare Excellence award program. Also note that the existing bestpractices can serve as templates for not only excellent metrics, but as ideation for best practices
themselves. The UNIVANTS of Healthcare Excellence program welcomes repeat themes across sites
and geographies, rewarding measurably change over novelty.

Tip 4. Ask for help when needed.
The UNIVANTS of Healthcare Excellence awards is a team award. Involving and utilizing theexpertise of each team member when creating the application is important for optimizing ideas
and highlighting the impact of the best practice being submitted for recognition. The UNIVANTS of
Healthcare Excellence Program also has a dedicated email to support questions about the award
process UNIVANTSofHealthcareExcellence@abbott.com.

Tip 5. Submit at least 2 weeks before the deadline
In advance of judge review, an administrative team reviews all applications for minimum award
requirements. Applications submitted at least 2 weeks in advance of the program deadline (i.e., byNovember 1st) are often given the opportunity to resolve gap(s) and/or provide additional clarity, if
needed. Thus, by submitting applications early, applicants have additional opportunities to ensure afavorable outcome upon judge assessment.
If you and/or your integrated clinical care team want to learn more and/or apply for this prestigious
awards, now is the time to start! Start thinking through your abstract and begin summarizing andcollecting metrics/KPIs. And visit the UNIVANTS website for best practice examples and guidance
documents and checklists to maximize your application and chances of top recognition.

38

ARE YOU THE NEXT

WINNER?

APPLY NOWThe UNIVANTS of Healthcare Excellence Award recognizes
teams who collaborate across disciplines and transform healthcaredelivery, and ultimately patient lives.
Does this sounds like you and your team? If so, we want to hearfrom you. To learn more and apply now through November 15
visit UnivantsHCE.com.

© 2023 Abbott. All rights reserved. ADD-132530-GBL-EN.

39

News from Regional Federations and Member
Societies
Painting the Path: Exploring AI in Healthcare through Art
Written by Lena Jafri and Dr. Shanzay Rehman, Section of Chemical Pathology, Department of
Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Karachi Pakistan

AI is transforming medical education, prompting the development of new capabilities for healthcare
workers. The section of Chemical Pathology at Aga Khan University Pakistan, organized amultidisciplinary workshop on 26th April focusing on the integration of AI in healthcare practice.
Our goal was to bring together medical professionals from various fields of healthcare and medical
education to gather their insights on incorporating AI into healthcare.
The primary objective of this workshop was to formulate an action plan to integrate AI in healthcare
taking into account human emotions and smart change management strategies. Professionals
from various departments at Aga Khan University Hospital, including Pathology and Laboratory
Medicine, Solutions & Innovation, Infection Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology (DIPHE), Schoolof Nursing, Postgraduate Medical Education, Biological and Biomedical Science, Medicine, Surgery,and the Dean’s Office, were invited to attend our workshop on AI in healthcare. However, we took on
this issue from a unique perspective, emphasizing that, despite technological progress, the powerof the human imagination and mind remains irreplaceable by allowing participant’s to express theirthoughts on AI through paining on canvas. Incorporating Art it to our workshop on AI allowed us to
explore the emotional and cognitive dimensions on this complex topic. Art is a powerful medium of
expression and through this workshop we tried creating a safe and inclusive space for all.
The participants were given canvases and paints and were invited to express their opinions on
healthcare and AI. This exercise promoted a creative environment by allowing participants to openly
share their ideas. We saw a wide range of interpretations: some emphasized the good synergy
between AI and human efforts depicting colorful views of how AI may improve healthcare service.
While others used black clouds and chaos to represent uneasiness and doubt, representing
anxieties about the unknown. Some participants also painted visual narratives of lab settings
showing the multilayered relationship between big data technology and patient safety. Furthermore,
several participants raised worries about AI’s impact on human cognition and emphasized the valueof the human mind and how no technology will ever be able to replace it.
Overall, the workshop provided a platform for insightful discussions and artistic expressions, offeringvaluable perspectives on the complex relationship between AI and healthcare. This workshop on
incorporating AI into clinical practice through art offered various benefits. By bringing together
healthcare professionals, it promoted interdisciplinary collaboration and enriched talks with different
mind sets. By the end of the workshop were able to achieve our primary outcome which was outlining
an action plan, on integrating AI in to Academic Medical Centre.

Article continued on the next page40

Painting the Path: Exploring AI in
Healthcaare through Art

Participants of the workshop holding their paintings

Small group discussions among the participants while
reviewing the action plan

Finished Paintings of the participants on incorporation of AI
into healthcare

41

News from Japan Society of Clinical Chemistry (JSCC)
2023 Technology Award
by Hideo Sakamoto, Ph.D. International Exchange Committee of JSCC

The Japan Society of Clinical Chemistry (JSCC) Technology Award is given to a person who has madeoutstanding technological developments in clinical chemistry. In 2023, Jun Takagi, PhD was thewinner of the Technology Award. The award presentation was held at the 63rd Annual Meeting of
JSCC in Tokyo, Japan from October 27 to 29, 2023. At the award presentation, the award winner wascongratulated by Dr. Takashi Miida, president of JSCC, for his outstanding technology development
in clinical chemistry. In this issue, we would like to introduce the winner of the Technology Award anddistribute information about his outstanding work.
Jun Takagi, PhD (Research and Development Division, FUJIREBIO INC.) is the winner of the 2023 JSCC
Technology Award, entitled with “Development of a fully automated immunoassay for prostaglandin
E-major urinary metabolite (PGE-MUM)”.
He and his colleagues have developed a new biomarker that reflects the activity of ulcerative colitis.
As the disease is inflammatory, prostaglandin E2, a mediator involved in the promotion and inhibitionof inflammation, has been proposed as a candidate biomarker. However, there is a challenge that thissubstance is rapidly metabolized in the blood, making it difficult to measure. Therefore, they focusedon the major metabolite of prostaglandin E2 in urine (PGE-MUM) and developed a reagent called“Lumipulse Presto PGE-MUM” that can accurately measure it automatically in about 30 minutes. PGEMUM is a very stable substance compared to prostaglandin E2. Also, with this reagent, it is possible
to measure not only PGE-MUM but also the dehydrated product of PGE-MUM, that is generated overtime in urine, by alkaline pretreatment of urine samples.
As urine samples used for measurement can be collected non-invasively and easily, even in
hospitals, they hope to reduce the physical and psychological burden of the ulcerative colitis
patients, who require long-term maintenance treatment.

Jun Takagi, PhD, winner of the
JSCC Technology Award 2023.

42

26th IFCC-EFLM
EUROMEDLAB CONGRESS OF
CLINICAL CHEMISTRYAND LABORATORY MEDICINE
49th ANNUAL MEETING
OF THE ROYAL BELGIAN SOCIETY
OF LABORATORY MEDICINE

18 TO 22MAY 2025
FROM

VENUE

www.euromedlab2025brussels.org

Brussels Expo

15 January 2025
15 March 2025

Deadline for poster abstract submission
Deadline for reduced registration fees

43

The Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQCML)
held the session “Exercise test using video games:
growth hormone deficiency” on June 4, as part of its
virtual training project SEQCML ACADEMY

Exercise tests using video games help stimulate growth hormone in children in a non-invasive
and safe way
Clinical laboratory specialists presented an exercise test using video games as a non-invasive andrisk-free test to stimulate growth hormone in children, in one of the Interhospital Sessions on June 4,“Exercise test through video game use: growth hormone deficiency”, organized by the Residents andYoung Scientists Commission of the Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQCML), as part of its
virtual training project SEQCML ACADEMY.
Growth hormone (GH) deficiency is a medical condition in which the body does not produce enoughof this hormone. This hormone, produced by the pituitary gland in the brain, is crucial for normal
development in children and adolescents. It is suspected when a child has significantly slower
growth, or shorter stature, than the average for his or her age.
The Clinical Laboratory specialist is essential for the diagnosis and effective monitoring of thetreatment for GH deficiency, working in close collaboration with other health professionals to ensure
the best result for the patient. This was highlighted by Dr. Marta Fabre Estremera, physician at
the Lozano Blesa University Clinical Hospital, Zaragoza, member of the SEQCML and in charge ofleading the session. As she noted, it is in the laboratory where “the determinations associated withdiagnostic tests are carried out, both growth hormone stimulation tests and baseline blood tests.”
In addition, a complete initial analysis is performed in the laboratory to rule out other possible causesof short stature (celiac disease, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome...). “Once the deficiency isdiagnosed, their work continues with monitoring the treatment, studying whether the blood levelsof the different hormones are in the desired ranges in line with the levels prescribed by pediatricendocrinologists,” according to Dr. Marta Fabre Estremera.
The expert explained that there are different functional growth hormone stimulation tests which all
have in common the administration of a stimulus, “whether physiological such as sleep or exercise, or
pharmacological such as clonidine or glucagon, and subsequent determination of growth hormone inblood to evaluate the body’s response to the stimulus.”

Physical tests for 20 minutes
The exercise test using video games is a growth hormone stimulation test. According to Eva
Martínez Marzo, who acted as a speaker at the session, the test consists of “performing physicaltests through a video game, for 20 minutes, monitored throughout the test via heart rate.” Before

Article continued on the next page44

SEQCML Hosts “Exercise Test Using Video Games:
Growth Hormone Deficiency” Session on June 4

starting the test, a blood determination of basal growth hormone is carried out, then the exercise
test is carried out using video games and at the end blood is drawn again to quantify GH. “It isconsidered an appropriate response if there is stimulation of hormone secretion.”In the words of Dr. Marta Fabre Estremera, physical exercise in childhood stimulates the productionof GH through the direct activation of the pituitary gland and the increase of metabolic factors, suchas adrenaline. In growth hormone stimulation tests through video games, “we take advantage of thisnatural stimulation, so that children perform a fun and non-invasive test, which allows us to study
the organic response to this stimulus.”
The fundamental benefits of this test, compared to the rest of functional stimulation tests, lie in
the fact that, as Dr. Eva Martínez Marzo noted, it is a non-invasive, rapid and risk-free method forchildren: “Other stimulation tests are carried out by taking drugs, which may have side effects suchas hypotension or hypoglycemia. In addition, it is easy to execute and the children are entertained,
motivated, and stress-free during the test.”
Likewise, both experts insisted that the implementation of video games in exercise tests has allowed
the protocols to be standardized. Traditionally, “an exercise test was carried out that consistedof performing various physical tests for 20 minutes with the limitation of a lack of standardizationof protocols and lack of adequate response in the patient, obtaining a large number of false
responses.” On the other hand, the use of this interactive medium allows the heart rate to bemonitored throughout the test, in such a way that it is considered valid if 75% of the maximum heart
rate is achieved, aiming for high-intensity exercise. “The exercise protocol through the use of video
games has an adequate intensity and duration to produce a sufficient GH stimulus.”
Finally, both specialists defended that an exercise test using video games is a valid technique as ascreening tool for the study of growth hormone deficiency; at the same time they insisted on theimportance of a “multidisciplinary approach among the different services involved in the study of theaxis of growth.”
Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQCML)
www.seqc.es@SEQC_ML
Residentes del Laboratorio Clínico - SEQC
https://www.linkedin.com/company/seqc-ml/ SEQC-MLSEQC-MLSEQC-ML
seqcresidentes

Pediatric room

45

The 15th Conference of the Romanian Association ofLaboratory Medicine Eforie Nord, 15-17 May 2024
By Dr. Daniela Jitaru, RALM President

The 14th National Conference with international participation of the Romanian Association ofLaboratory Medicine (RALM), organized under the auspices of IFCC and EFLM and in collaboration
with the Romanian Society of Microbiology, the Romanian Society of Hematology and the Universities
of Medicine and Pharmacy of Bucharest, Târgu Mures, Cluj Napoca, Iași, and Timișoara, took placeon15-17 May 2024 in Eforie Nord, Constanța.
The event took place over 3 days in the Europa Nord hotel which hosted the conference attended
by 550 participants including doctors, biologists, chemists and scientists working in medicallaboratories.
The scientific program comprised 7 sessions of plenary reports (26) and brief oral communications(31), and 2 poster sessions at which a total number of 35 electronic posters were presented. Thus,
this program provided an excellent opportunity for participants to learn, be trained and find concreteanswers for different situations encountered in everyday practice.
The posters and the slides for the oral presentations were written in English and conference
abstracts were published in a supplement of Romanian Journal of Laboratory Medicine, a journal
indexed in the ISI Web of Knowledge - Web of Science - Science Citation Index Expanded (Clarivate
analytics) since 2008. Topics of interest in clinical chemistry, hematology, immunology, microbiology,
molecular biology, laboratory management and quality control, respectively professional guidelines
were addressed during the various sessions. Among them, we mention: Green LABS - Sustainabletransition within the medical laboratories, Laboratory quality management/ proficiency testing, tumor
markers, advanced methods in hemato-oncology, biomarkers in cardiovascular diseases, advances intransplant immunology, microbiology.
The participants had the opportunity to ask questions and make comments after presentations, andalso to share their experience in a particular field.
Six speakers from abroad were invited to give their lecture at the congress:
1.
2.
3.

4.
5.
6.

Prof. Dr. Tomris Ozben - IFCC PRESIDENT, EFLM Executive Board Representative
Prof. Dr. Bernd Kaina - Institute of Toxicology, University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
Prof. Dr. Sanja Stankovic - Center for Medical Biochemistry University Clinical Center of Serbia,
Belgrade, and Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac,
SerbiaProf. Dr. Tommaso Trenti - OCSAE, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
Prof. Dr. Manuela G. Neuman - In Vitro Drug Safety and Biotechnology and Department ofPharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Dr. Carlos Garces - Medical Director of Bioclinic Laboratory in the city of Iquique, President,
Medical Society of Clinical, Laboratory of Chile

Also, 50 invited speakers from Romanian academic institutions significantly contributed to thescientific program of the congress (some pictures are presented in Appendix 1 to this report).
As RALM manifests a strong interest in encouraging and motivating young laboratory professionals,
many communications and posters were presented by young colleagues, most of them PhD fellows.
During the conference a large exhibition of equipment, reagents, supplies, software was held, being
involved 24 IVD companies. In addition, diagnostic industry organized 12 workshops that introduced
new technologies and clinical assays.

Article continued on the next page46

15th Conference of the Romanian Association ofLaboratory Medicine in Eforie Nord, 15-17 May 2024

After the closing ceremony, the general assembly of RAML took place where the president awarded
the Marcela Zamfirescu Gheorghiu Prize for the best poster, and announced the winner of the 2024
scientific research grants competition.
The scientific quality and variety of topics included in the program, as well as the level oforganization of the conference, led to a successful scientific and professional event.

Prof. Dr. Minodora Dobreanu vicepresident of RomanianProf. Dr. Tomris Ozben - IFCC PRESIDENT, EFLM Executive

Association of Laboratory Medicine (RALM) (right part), Prof.

Board Representative, Prof. Dr. Minodora Dobreanu

Dr. Tomris Ozben - IFCC PRESIDENT, EFLM Executive Board

vicepresident of Romanian Association of Laboratory

Representative, Dr. Daniela Jitaru president of Romanian

Medicine (RALM),

Association of Laboratory Medicine (RALM) (left part)Prof. Dr. Tommaso Trenti - OCSAE, Azienda USL of Modena,

Picture from the first day of the conference

Modena, Italy

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cristina Mambet past president of Romanian

Picture from the exhibition made during the conference

Association of Laboratory Medicine (RALM)

Article continued on the next page47

15th Conference of the Romanian Association ofLaboratory Medicine in Eforie Nord, 15-17 May 2024

Picture from the exhibition made during the conference48News from the Turkish Biochemical Society (TBS)By Aylin Sepici Dinçel, Executive Board Member of TBS

The Turkish Biochemical Society (TBS) celebrated the 100th Anniversary of the Turkish Republicwith a number of scientific and social activities during the 2023 International Biochemistry Congressand 34th National Biochemistry Congress, which was held in the historic district of Fethiye/Muğla
between 29 October – 1 November 2023 at Fethiye Liberty Lykia Congress Center. The meeting wasorganized by TBS under the auspices of EFLM, IFCC, FEBS, and TUBITAK, along with contributions
from 38 well-known IVD companies. More than 650 participants attended, and nearly 200 of themwere students in their postgraduate education. More than 100 academicians from Turkey and abroadin Clinical and Basic Biochemistry participated in keynote speeches, symposia, and panels in a richscientific sharing and discussion environment during the 27 sessions, 12 panels, seven conferences,and seven satellite symposia.
We were all very pleased with the scientific quality and the diversity of the presentations, the lively
scientific interactions and networking, as well as the appealing social program beginning with the
opening speech by Prof. Doğan Yücel titled “What is the Republic?” on the 100th Anniversary of our
Republic. Then, on behalf of the EFLM Board Members, Prof. Tomris Özben (IFCC president-current)
greeted the audience. The opening lecture was the IUBMB Plenary Lecture presented by Prof.
Gökhan Hotamışlıgil from Harvard University entitled “The Critical Role of Intracellular MolecularArchitecture in the Programming of Metabolic Function.” Then, the 100th Anniversary Celebrations of
our Republic were held with enthusiasm.
While there are many conferences on clinical laboratory, medicine, and biochemical research, thisthree-and-a-half-day meeting was unique because it engages renowned experts from different
continents in a comfortable, familiar forum. The congress provided an excellent opportunity
for delegates to interact closely with the faculty, consult, exchange views, and build up new
collaborations and networking. The congress topics were explicitly chosen to interest practicing
clinicians and researchers. One hundred ninety-nine oral presentations and 105 posters with onside
discussions were presented. On the first day, there were four courses: the Drug Analysis Course,
Computer Applied Basic Statistics Course for Beginners, Electrophoresis, and Clinical Laboratory
Course in Monoclonal Gammopathies and Machine Learning. The machine learning course wasinternationally certificated. The mentoring program was implemented throughout the congress,
ensuring that students benefited from scientific activities at the highest level.
Prof. Mario Plebani from the University of Padova, Italy, gave two keynote lectures. One was“Integrated Diagnostics: The Future of Laboratory Medicine,” and the next was entitled “Harmonizing
the Post-Analytical Phase.” One of the keynote lectures was the FEBS National Lecture presented
by Prof. Konrad Sandhoff, who talked about his journey into the field of sphingolipids andsphingolipidosis. Prof. Giuseppe Lippi also gave a keynote lecture on “Secrets and Mysteries in the
Preanalytical Phase.” IFCC Visiting Lecturer Programmed speaker was Prof. Qing Meng from the
University of Texas. He discussed “Current Advances in Clinical Application of Tumor Biomarkers:
Utility, Challenge and Perspectives” as a keynote lecture. Besides Prof Meng talked about “Career
Development for Young Scientists in Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine” during theYoung Investigators Roadmap Forum 2, together with Prof. Kristin Moberg Aakre, whose lecture
entitled “Establish Your Own Research- A Road Map for Young Researchers” and Prof. Ferhan GirginSağın explained what FEBS offers to young scientists. Apart from that, the first forum was about the
Residency Training in Türkiye. The forums were intense and shaped by good discussions. Congress
had several panels included three topics of 25 minutes and Q&A, entitled The Biological Clockand Chronobiology Panel, New Therapeutic Approach to Pan-Cancer Treatment: Direct TelomerTargeting Molecules and Immune Check Point Inhibitors, Updates to Clinical and Medical Laboratory
Guidelines and International Standards, Integrative Approaches to Molecular Interactions and Drug
Design, New Laboratory Techniques, Where are We Going in Diagnosis, Follow-up and Treatment?:
Current and Near Future. All kept the audience’s attention even in the late afternoon. There werefour satellite symposia with topics of Evaluation of Primary hemostasis in Patients with Bleeding

Article continued on the next page49

News from the Turkish
Biochemical Society (TBS)Diathesis, Standardization and Harmonization in Immunological Tests: Quality and Comparability
Are Needed by Prof. Mario Plebani, Digital Transformation in the Clinical Laboratory: Reliable Sample
Monitoring, Efficient Data Analysis, Improved TAT and Clinical Benefits by Dr. Oğuzhan Zengi and
Said İncir, Tomorrow’s Lab: Innovations & Trends by Fatih Küçükali and Ekrem Yıldırım from Siemens
Healthineers, DxI 9000 as a New Beckman Coulter’s Approach to Immunochemistry by Marko Zarak
from Dubrava University Hospital, Croatia,
At the Closing Ceremony, the Nazmi Özer Science Award, FEBS Open Bio Poster Award, TJB
Innovation Award, and UBK Poster Award were given to their winners.
Traditionally, Ahmet Cingöz from Koç University KUTTAM, who received the Nazmi Özer ScienceAward the year before (2022), did his presentation titled “Creation of TRAIL-Resistant Cell Line
Models Reveals the Adoption of Different Mechanisms of Acquired Resistance and Resensitization”
after the award ceremony.
The success of this conference is a great motivation and challenge for the 2024 International
Biochemistry Congress and 35th National Biochemistry Congress, which is going to be a joint
congress with XXXI Meeting of Balkan Clinical Laboratory Federation (BCLF) in the charming cityof Antalya, Side which is known as one of the major coinage centers founded by Alexander, at theStarlight Convention Center between 28th October – November 1, 2024 (https://biyokimyakongresi.
org/mainpage/index.html). TBS has been a member of the Balkan Clinical Laboratory Federation since1996. The last congress held by TBS was in 2019, and participants were from eighteen countries.
This year, the congress is credited by EFLM, and participants will earn CPECS®credits, the first in
Türkiye as a medical biochemistry congress. TBS will offer grants to young investigators, and all
abstracts will be published as a supplement to the Turkish Journal of Biochemistry, which is listed in
the Science Citation Index-Expanded. We hope to get together again with our colleagues in October
2024.

Article continued on the next page

50

51

New IFCC Members
IFCC WELCOMES THREE NEW CORPORATE MEMBERS
Zybio Inc. is a high-tech enterprise specialized in R&D, manufacture, sales and technical services ofin vitro diagnostic reagents and equipment, with the headquarter and manufacturing center locatedin Chongqing, China. Since its founding in 2008, Zybio has gradually developed 9 technology lines, 2
lab management system and 1 set of lean lab solution.
Zybio is devoted to the development of cutting-edge technologies in the IVD field. To makeR&D the core driving force in promoting the continuous and rapid development of the company,
Zybio has established several R&D centers in China. The product lines include a wide rangeof reliable diagnostic instruments & reagents for Clinical Chemistry, CLIA, POCT, Coagulation,
Urinalysis, Hematology, Microbiology, Mass Spectrometry, Molecular, etc. Zybio is also involved in
the development of biological raw materials and key components for instruments, and owns key
technologies related to genetic engineering antigens/antibodies, diagnostic nanomaterials, multiplelab signal amplification, and rapid nucleic acid extraction and detection. Zybio’s products, solutions
and services have been widely applied in over 20,000 healthcare facilities in over 100 countries.
Zybio gradually set up subsidiaries in Dutch, Singapore, Brazil, Mexico, Indonesia, Thailand,
Philippines, etc.
Adhering to the mission of “Accurate Diagnostics, Healthier Lifestyle”, Zybio will contribute to theglobal health with precise, comprehensive and beneficial IVD solutions based on clinical needs andmake them helpful in clinical applications.
For more information: https://www.zybio.com

Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech Co., Ltd. founded in 1992 and headquartered in Guangzhou science city,
Wondfo focuses on the R&D, manufacturing, sales and service of IVD industry, providing professional
rapid diagnosis and chronic disease management solutions.
Wondfo has 9 technology platforms. Our rapid diagnostic devices and reagents span a wide
spectrum, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, renal functions, respiratory issues, fertility,
DOA, infections, tumors, etc. We provide services to over 150 countries and regions.
In 2015, Wondfo was listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, becoming the first public company in
POCT in China.
For more information: https://en.wondfo.com/

Article continued on the next page52

IFCC Welcomes three
new corporates members

Dirui Industrial Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “DIRUI”, stock code: 300396), as a high-techcompany held by China Resources Industrial Fund, was founded in Changchun, China in 1992. Today,
DIRUI is one of the leading in vitro diagnostic companies in China held by state-owned enterprise.
Under the guidance of the company’s “14th Five-Year” Plan, DIRUI has set up three major operation
centers in Beijing, Wuhan and Chengdu to achieve high levels of market responsiveness and service,and two R&D centers in Changchun and Shenzhen to accelerate the product and technology
output by complementing the strengths of the north and the south. With a whole industry chainof R&D, production, marketing and service of high-quality in vitro diagnostic products, DIRUI’s R&D
capabilities have always been at the forefront of the industry. DIRUI is one of the few companies in
the industry that focuses on the development of both instruments and reagents.
DIRUI has been engaged in the IVD industry for more than 30 years with the adherence tothe mission of “To Popularize Diagnostics and Benefit the Masses”. By specializing in eight
product lines including urinalysis, clinical chemistry, immunoassay, gynecological secretion,
hematology, coagulation, molecular diagnostics, and integrated laboratory, DIRUI is able to provide
comprehensive product solutions and services for medical laboratories. DIRUI’s products havegained the trust of more than 14,000 medical institutions in China and users in more than 120
countries and regions around the world. All DIRUI people will strive for “Pioneering Excellence in the
IVD Industry”, shoulder the era responsibility of national diagnostic autonomy, and show the world
the charm of China’s smart manufacturing with excellent products.

53

IFCC’s Calendar of Congresses,
Conferences & Events
IFCC and Regional Federation
Events
Date

Title

Place

Oct 3 - 6,
2024

XXVI COLABIOCLI 2024

Cartagena,CO

Oct 31 - Nov 3,
2024

APFCB 2024 Sydney

Sidney,AU

May 18 - 22,
2025

XXVI IFCC-EFLM
EUROMEDLAB 2025

Brussels,BE

Oct 25 30, 2026

XXVII IFCC WORLDLAB 2026

New Dehli,IN

Oct 10 - 13,
2027

APFCB 2027 KUALA LUMPUR

Kuala
Lumpur, MY

Date to be
selected

XXVII IFCC-EFLM EUROMEDLAB
2027

Venue to be
selected

Date to be
selected

XXVII IFCC WORLDLAB 2028

Venue to be
selected

Date to be
selected

XXVII IFCC-EFLM EUROMEDLAB
2029

Venue to be
selected

Date to be
selected

XXVII IFCC WORLDLAB 2030

Venue to be
selected

Article continued on the next page54

Corporate Member Events with
IFCC Auspices
Date

Title

Place

Sep 14,2024

Inter-QCTopics Internationalseminars on Quality Control :Laboratory screening for infectious
agents in blood services: methods
and quality control

Qualityconsulting
online event,BR

Nov 16,2024

Inter-QCTopics Internationalseminars on Quality Control:
Patient blood management –what is the role of the laboratory
according to ISO 15189?

Qualityconsulting
online event,HR

Article continued on the next page55

Other events with
IFCC auspices
Click here56

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57

IFCC Executive Board 2024 - 2026

TomrisOZBEN
President

Khosrow
ADELI
Past-President

SergioBERNARDINI
SecretaryAlexander
HALIASSOS
Treasurer

TriciaRAVALICO
Corporate
Representative

T. BADRICK
Asia-Pacific Fed
for Clin Biochem
and Lab Med(APFCB)

M. PLEBANI
European Fed ofClin Chem andLab Medicine(EFLM)

E. FREGGIARO
Latin-American
Confederationof Clin
Biochemistry(COLABIOCLI)T. PILLAY (ZA)
Communications
andPublications
Division Chair

D. GRUSON (BE)
Emerging
Technologies
Division Chair

P. LAITINEN (FI)Congresses andConferences
Committee Chair

Regional Representatives

R. ERASMUS
AfricanFederation ofClinical Chemistry(AFCC)

O. NAJJAR
ArabFederation ofClinical Biology(AFCB)

D. GRENACHE
North American
Fed of Clin
Chem and Lab
Med(NAFCC)IFCC Divisions and C-CC Chairs

C. COBBAERT (NL)
Scientific
Division Chair

N. RIFAI (US)
Education andManagement
Division Chair

IFCC Office Staff(L-R) Elisa Fossati, Paola Bramati, Silvia Colli Lanzi, Silvia Cardinale, Smeralda Skenderaj

58

IFCC Membership
Full members

Albania (AL)
Algeria (DZ)
Argentina (AR)Armenia (AM)Australasia and New
Zealand (AU/NZ)
Austria (AT)Azerbaijan (AZ)
Belgium (BE)Bolivia (BO)
Bosnia Herzegovina (BA)
Brazil (BR)
Bulgaria (BG)
Canada (CA)Chile (CL)
China Beijing (CN)China Taipei (TW)
Colombia (CO)Croatia (HR)Cuba (CU)
Cyprus (CY)
Czech Republic (CZ)
Denmark (DK)
Dominican Rep (DO)
Ecuador (EC)Egypt (EG)Estonia (EE)
Ethiopia (ET)Finland (FI)France (FR)Georgia (GE)Germany (DE)Greece (GR)
Guatemala (GT)Hong Kong (HK)
Hungary (HU)
Iceland (IS)India (IN)Indonesia (ID)
Iran (IR)Iraq (IQ)
Ireland (IE)
Israel (IL)
Italy (IT)Japan (JP)Jordan (JO)
Kazakhstan (KZ)
Kenya (KE)
Korea (KR)Kosovo (XK)Corporate members

Latvia (LV)
Lebanon (LB)
Libya (LY)
Lithuania (LT)
Luxembourg (LU)
Malawi (MW)Malaysia (MY)Mexico (MX)Montenegro (ME)
Morocco (MA)
Myanmar (MM)
Nepal (NP)
Netherlands (NL)
Nigeria (NG)North Macedonia (MK)Norway (NO)Pakistan (PK)Palestine (PS)Panama (PA)Paraguay (PY)
Peru (PE)Philippines (PH)Poland (PL)Portugal (PT)
Romania RO)
Russia (RU)
Saudi Arabia (SA)Serbia (SRB)
Singapore (SG)Slovak Republic (SK)Slovenia (SI)South Africa (ZA)
Spain (ES)Sri Lanka (LK)
Sudan (SD)
Sweden (SW)Switzerland (CH)
Syrian Arab Republic (SY)
Thailand (TH)Tunisia (TN)Türkiye (TR)Ukraine (UA)United Arab Emirates (UAE)
United Kingdom (UK)
United States (US)Uruguay (UY)
Vietnam (VN)
Zambia (ZM)
Zimbabwe (ZW)

Regional Federations

Arab Federation of Clinical Biology (AFCB)
African Federation of Clinical Chemistry (AFCC)
Asia-Pacific Federation for Clinical Biochemistry
and Laboratory Medicine (APFCB)
European Federation of Clinical Chemistry
and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM)
Latin America Confederationof Clinical Biochemistry (COLABIOCLI)North American Federation of Clinical Chemistry
and Laboratory Medicine (NAFCC)

Abbott Laboratories
Agappe Diagnostics Ltd
Arkray Inc.
Asahi Kasei Pharma Corp.
Asesores de Calidad para
Laboratorios
Autobio Diagnostics Co. Ltd.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Becton Dickinson
Bio Rad Laboratories
Biomasterclin Laboratorios
Venezuela
Brooks Automation Italy Srl
Controllab
C.P.M. Compagnia Per La
Medicina® Srl
Diagnostica Stago
Diasorin Spa
DiaSys Diagnostic Systems
DIRUI
Gmbh
Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech
Co., LtdET Healthcare Inc.
Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical
Corporation
Fujirebio-Europe
Gentian As
Greiner Bio-One
Helena Biosciencies Europe
Hemas Hospital Pvt
Hytest Ltd.
I-Sens, Inc.
Immunodiagnostic Systems
IDS
Instrumentation Laboratory
Jiangsu Bioperfectus

Technologies Co. Ltd.
Labor Team W Ag
Labor Dr. Wisplinghoff
Lumiradx Uk Ltd.
Maccura Biotechnology Co.,Ltd.
Medicalsystem Biotechnology
Co., Ltd.
Medix Biochemica
Menarini Diagnostics
Mindray
Nittobo Medical Co. Ltd.
Oneworld Accuracy
PerkinElmer
Phc Europe B.V.
Quality Academics, S.C.
Quidelortho
Radiometer Medical Aps
Randox Laboratories Ltd.
Roche Diagnostics Gmbh
Sansure Biotech Inc
Sebia S.A.
Sentinel Ch Spa
Shanghai KehuaBioengineering Co., Ltd.
Shenzhen Yhlo Biotech
Siemens Healthcare
Diagnostics
Snibe Co., Ltd
Synlab International Gmbh
Sysmex Europe Gmbh
Technogenetics
The Binding Site Group Ltd.
Thermo Fisher ScientificTosoh Corporation
United Robotics Group Gmbh
Zybio

Affiliate Members

Botswana: Institute of Clinical Laboratory Professionals
Brazil: Sociedade Brasileira de Patologia Clínica / Medicina
Laboratorial (SBPC/ML)
China: Lab Medicine Committee, China Association of Medical
Equipment (LMC)
Egypt: Egyptian Association of Healthcare Quality and Patient
SafetyFrance: French National Network of Accredited Laboratories ofMedical Biology (LABAC)
India: Association of Medical Biochemists of India (AMBI)
Iran: Iranian Association of Clinical Laboratory Doctors (IACLD)
Jordan: Society for Medical Technology & Laboratories (SMTL)
Kazakhstan: Public Association - Federation of Laboratory
Medicine (FLM)
Mexico: Federación Nacional de Químicos Clínicos (CONAQUIC
A.C.)
Mexico: Colegio Nacional de Químicos Clínicos en Medicina deLaboratorio (CONQUILAB)
Mexico: Federación Nacional de Colegios Profesionales de laQuímica Clínica, A.C. (FENACQC)
Nepal: Nepalese Association for Clinical Chemistry (NACC)
Philippines: Philippine Council for Quality Assurance in ClinicalLaboratories (PCQACL)
Romania: Order of the Biochemists, Biologists, Chemists in
Romanian Health System (OBBCSSR) Serbia: Serbian Society for
Clinical Laboratory Medicine and Science (SCLM)
Spain: Andalusian Society for Clinical Analysis and Laboratory
Medicine (SANAC)
Spain: Asociación Española de Biopatología Médica - Medicinade Laboratorio (AEBM-ML)
Spain: Asociación Española de Farmacéuticos Analistas (AEFA)
Sri Lanka: College of Chemical Pathologists of Sri Lanka (CCPSL)
Türkiye: Society of Clinical Biochemistry Specialists (KBUD)
Ukraine: Association for Quality Assurance of Laboratory
Medicine (AQALM)
United Arab Emirates: Genetic Diseases Association (UAEGDA)

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enewsPublisher
Communications and Publications Division(CPD) of the IFCCThe Communications and Publications
Division publishes ten editions of the e-Newsper year, including two double issues.
EditorKatherina Psarra, MSc, PhD
Department of Immunology Histocompatibility Evangelismos Hospital,
Athens, Greece
E-mail: enews@ifcc.org
The eNews is distributed to all IFCC
members registered on-line to receive it andto all IFCC sponsors.
Deadlines for submissions to the eNews
N° 1/2 – January/February: by mid January
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N° 12 – December: by mid November
If you want to submit an article oradvertisement to be published in the eNews,
send it to: Katherina Psarra, Editor, IFCC
eNews
E-mail: enews@ifcc.org

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Contents may not be reproduced without
the prior permission of the Communications
and Publications Division (CPD) of the IFCC.

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