Ali Akbar Shafikhani | Mental Health Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ali Akbar Shafikhani | Mental Health Research | Best Researcher Award

University Researcher from Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Dr. Ali Akbar Shafiekhani is a distinguished physicist renowned for his extensive research in nanomaterials, surface science, and condensed matter physics. His academic journey is marked by a prolific output of peer-reviewed publications, reflecting his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge. Dr. Shafiekhani’s work primarily focuses on the synthesis and characterization of nanostructured materials, exploring their unique properties and potential applications in various technological domains. His contributions have significantly impacted the understanding of material behaviors at the nanoscale, positioning him as a leading figure in his field. Beyond research, Dr. Shafiekhani is dedicated to mentoring emerging scientists, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and critical thinking. His interdisciplinary approach bridges gaps between physics, chemistry, and engineering, facilitating the development of novel materials with tailored functionalities. Through his academic endeavors, Dr. Shafiekhani continues to influence the trajectory of nanoscience and its integration into practical applications, underscoring his role as a pivotal contributor to contemporary scientific discourse.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Shafiekhani’s academic foundation is rooted in rigorous training and scholarly excellence. He obtained his Ph.D. in Physics, where he specialized in the study of nanomaterials and their surface interactions. His doctoral research provided critical insights into the electronic and structural properties of nanostructured systems, laying the groundwork for his future explorations in material science. Prior to his doctoral studies, Dr. Shafiekhani completed his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Physics, during which he developed a strong analytical framework and a deep understanding of fundamental physical principles. His educational trajectory is characterized by a consistent pursuit of knowledge and a passion for uncovering the intricacies of material behaviors. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Shafiekhani has engaged with various research institutions and academic programs, enriching his perspective and enhancing his expertise in experimental and theoretical physics. His comprehensive education has equipped him with the skills necessary to conduct high-impact research and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community.

Professional Experience

Dr. Shafiekhani’s professional career encompasses a blend of research, teaching, and collaborative projects. He has held academic positions at esteemed institutions, where he has led research initiatives focused on the development and analysis of nanomaterials. His roles have included supervising graduate students, securing research funding, and publishing findings in reputable scientific journals. Dr. Shafiekhani’s experience extends to interdisciplinary collaborations, working alongside chemists, engineers, and material scientists to explore the multifaceted applications of nanotechnology. His professional endeavors are marked by a commitment to advancing scientific understanding and translating research into practical solutions. Through his academic appointments, Dr. Shafiekhani has contributed to curriculum development, integrating cutting-edge research findings into educational programs to inspire and educate the next generation of scientists. His professional journey reflects a dedication to both the advancement of science and the dissemination of knowledge through teaching and mentorship.

Research Interests

Dr. Shafiekhani’s research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology, surface science, and condensed matter physics. He is particularly focused on the synthesis and characterization of nanostructured materials, investigating their electronic, optical, and mechanical properties. His work aims to understand how nanoscale modifications influence material behaviors, with implications for the development of advanced sensors, catalysts, and electronic devices. Dr. Shafiekhani is also interested in the study of thin films and nanocomposites, exploring their potential in energy storage and conversion applications. His research often involves the use of sophisticated analytical techniques to probe the structural and functional aspects of materials at the atomic level. By elucidating the fundamental principles governing material properties, Dr. Shafiekhani seeks to contribute to the design of materials with tailored functionalities for specific technological applications. His interdisciplinary approach enables the integration of theoretical models with experimental data, fostering a comprehensive understanding of material science.

Research Skills

Dr. Shafiekhani possesses a robust set of research skills that facilitate his investigations into nanomaterials and surface phenomena. He is proficient in various synthesis techniques, including chemical vapor deposition and sol-gel processes, enabling the fabrication of diverse nanostructures. His expertise extends to characterization methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), which are essential for analyzing material morphology and crystallography. Dr. Shafiekhani is adept at spectroscopic techniques, including UV-Vis, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy, for probing electronic and vibrational properties. His analytical capabilities are complemented by a strong foundation in computational modeling, allowing for the simulation and interpretation of experimental results. Dr. Shafiekhani’s methodological rigor and technical proficiency underpin his ability to conduct comprehensive studies that advance the field of nanoscience. His continual engagement with emerging technologies ensures that his research remains at the forefront of scientific innovation.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Shafiekhani has received numerous accolades recognizing his contributions to science and academia. His research excellence has been acknowledged through awards that highlight the impact and innovation of his work in nanomaterials and surface science. These honors reflect his commitment to advancing knowledge and his influence within the scientific community. Dr. Shafiekhani’s dedication to education has also been recognized, with commendations for his effective teaching and mentorship. His ability to inspire students and foster a dynamic learning environment has earned him respect and admiration from both peers and learners. The combination of research achievements and educational contributions underscores Dr. Shafiekhani’s multifaceted role as a scientist and educator. His accolades serve not only as personal milestones but also as testament to the broader significance of his work in shaping contemporary scientific thought and practice.

Conclusion

Dr. Ali Akbar Shafiekhani’s career embodies the integration of rigorous scientific inquiry with a passion for education and collaboration. His extensive research in nanomaterials and surface science has contributed significantly to the understanding of material behaviors at the nanoscale, influencing both academic research and practical applications. As an educator, Dr. Shafiekhani has played a pivotal role in mentoring students and fostering a culture of curiosity and innovation. His interdisciplinary approach and commitment to excellence have positioned him as a leader in his field, whose work continues to inspire and inform. Looking forward, Dr. Shafiekhani’s ongoing research endeavors and educational initiatives are poised to further advance the frontiers of nanoscience, contributing to technological progress and the cultivation of scientific talent. His legacy is characterized by a dedication to discovery, a nurturing of intellectual growth, and a lasting impact on the scientific community.

Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Anxiety and depression in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disorder
    Authors: SAHS Javadi, AA Shafikhani
    Journal: Electronic Physician 9 (8), 5107
    Citations: 52
    Year: 2017

  • Title: Factors affecting sleep quality in firefighters
    Authors: M Abbasi, M Rajabi, Z Yazdi, AA Shafikhani
    Journal: Sleep Hypn 20 (4), 283-289
    Citations: 41
    Year: 2018

  • Title: Prevalence of depression and anxiety and their association with body mass index among high school students in Qazvin, Iran, 2013–2014
    Authors: M Javadi, Z Jourabchi, AA Shafikhani, E Tajik
    Journal: Electronic Physician 9 (6), 4655
    Citations: 32
    Year: 2017

  • Title: Evaluation of depression and anxiety in patients with thalassemia: a comparative study
    Authors: AR Haji seyedJavadi, AA Shafikhani
    Journal: J Qazvin Univ Med Sci 21 (2), 13-21
    Citations: 17
    Year: 2017

  • Title: Evaluation of different types of arsenic methylation and its relationship with metabolic syndrome in an area chronically exposed to arsenic
    Authors: AM Kazemifar, AA Shafikhani, H Mozhdehipanah, S Khamesi, M Arami
    Journal: Environmental Analysis, Health and Toxicology 35 (2), e2020006
    Citations: 13
    Year: 2020

  • Title: Assessment of the environmental sound level and the noise exposure in a steel industry
    Authors: M Aliabadi, E Darvishi, A Shafikhani
    Journal: Journal of Health System Research 11 (2), 327-337
    Citations: 12
    Year: 2015

  • Title: Evaluation of depression and anxiety, and their relationships with insomnia, nightmare and demographic variables in medical students
    Authors: AHS Javadi, AA Shafikhani
    Journal: Sleep and Hypnosis 21 (1), 9-15
    Citations: 9
    Year: 2019

  • Title: Evaluation of the effect of fluvoxamine in patients with schizophrenia under risperidone treatment: a clinical trial
    Authors: AHS Javadi, AA Shafikhani, SM Zamir, ZF Khanshir
    Journal: Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology 38 (2), 119-124
    Citations: 9
    Year: 2018

  • Title: The effect of melatonin on cardiac biomarkers after coronary artery bypass graft surgery: A double-blind, randomized pilot study
    Authors: N Nasseh, MB Khezri, S Farzam, S Shiravandi, AA Shafikhani
    Journal: Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia 36 (10), 3800-3805
    Citations: 8
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Ergonomic interventions in manual handling of carpets to the retail sellers in a textile company
    Authors: E Darvishi, A Shafikhani, AA Shafikhani
    Journal: Journal of Health and Safety at Work 5 (1), 65-74
    Citations: 8
    Year: 2015

Leah Glynn | Mental Health | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Leah Glynn | Mental Health | Best Researcher Award

Nurse Practitioner at UNC Blue Ridge, United States.

Leah K. Glynn, DNP, FNP-BC, NP-C, is a dedicated nurse practitioner with extensive experience in various clinical settings, including inpatient psychiatry and gastroenterology. Currently serving at UNC Blue Ridge, she collaborates closely with psychiatrists to provide comprehensive patient care, emphasizing assessment, treatment planning, and psychoeducation. Leah holds a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Duke University, where she achieved a remarkable GPA of 3.976 and was nominated for an Outstanding DNP Project. Her leadership roles, such as chairperson of the Education & Retention Council at Stafford Hospital and involvement with the American Heart Association, highlight her commitment to education and professional development. With multiple certifications and a focus on evidence-based practices, Leah’s research contributions, particularly in mental health, position her as a strong candidate for recognition in nursing and healthcare. Her commitment to patient-centered care and innovative approaches underscores her dedication to improving health outcomes in her community.

Profile:

Education

Leah K. Glynn has a robust educational background, reflecting her commitment to advancing her knowledge and skills in nursing and healthcare. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Duke University, where she has achieved an impressive GPA of 3.976 and is recognized for her thesis on implementing Stress First Aid to enhance self-efficacy. Prior to her DNP, Leah earned a Master of Science with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner from Georgetown University, where she was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau Honors Society. Additionally, she holds a Master of Arts in Psychology from American Military University, graduating with high honors and focusing her thesis on ADHD in girls. Leah also completed a Master of Science in Nursing Education at Western Governors University and earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, where she graduated with honors. This diverse educational foundation underpins her extensive clinical practice and leadership in the nursing field.

Professional Experiences 

Leah K. Glynn, DNP, FNP-BC, NP-C, has extensive professional experience in nursing, with a strong focus on psychiatric and holistic patient care. Currently serving as a Nurse Practitioner at UNC Blue Ridge since August 2022, she provides comprehensive inpatient psychiatric care, collaborating with psychiatrists to assess patients, formulate treatment plans, and deliver counseling. Previously, she worked remotely at Cerebral, where she utilized evidence-based practices to support clients with various mental health issues. Her background includes significant roles at Fall Hill Gastroenterology Associates, where she managed gastrointestinal health, and Mary Washington Healthcare, where she served as a Nursing Supervisor and Registered Nurse. Leah’s experience as an Integrated Care Manager further showcases her ability to coordinate comprehensive care across multidisciplinary teams. Additionally, her roles as a school nurse highlight her dedication to student health and education, reinforcing her commitment to patient advocacy and community wellness.

Research Interests

Leah K. Glynn’s research interests center on enhancing mental health care and promoting holistic patient well-being. With a focus on evidence-based practices, she is particularly interested in the integration of innovative therapeutic approaches, such as Stress First Aid (SFA), to bolster self-efficacy among patients facing mental health challenges. Her work emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in mental health treatment, aiming to develop comprehensive care strategies that address the diverse needs of patients. Additionally, Leah is passionate about exploring the implications of psychological factors, such as ADHD, on various demographics, particularly in children and adolescents. She aims to contribute to the nursing field by bridging the gap between clinical practice and research, fostering a deeper understanding of the psychosocial aspects of health. Through her research endeavors, Leah seeks to advance nursing practice, improve patient outcomes, and advocate for mental health awareness and education within communities.

Research skills 

Leah K. Glynn possesses a robust set of research skills that are evident throughout her academic and professional career. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) candidate, she demonstrates a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, particularly through her thesis on implementing “Stress First Aid” to enhance patient self-efficacy. Leah’s experience in diverse clinical settings has honed her ability to conduct comprehensive assessments, analyze patient data, and formulate treatment plans based on empirical evidence. Her background in psychology further enriches her research capabilities, allowing her to explore complex behavioral health issues critically. Leah has also engaged in data collection and analysis during her tenure as a school nurse and integrated care manager, ensuring quality care and health education. Her commitment to continual learning and professional development, coupled with her leadership roles in various health organizations, underscores her capability to contribute significantly to nursing research and practice.

Award And Recognition 

Leah K. Glynn has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her distinguished nursing career, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care and professional development. Notably, she was nominated for the Outstanding DNP Project for her innovative thesis on bolstering self-efficacy through the implementation of Stress First Aid. Her academic achievements include being a member of the Sigma Theta Tau Honors Society during her Master of Science program, where she graduated with high honors. Leah’s leadership roles further showcase her dedication, including her service as the president-elect of the Overseas School Health Nurses Association, where she coordinated an international conference, and her role as an AHA instructor, educating both medical professionals and laypersons in life-saving techniques. Her consistent engagement in educational initiatives and professional organizations highlights her influence within the nursing community, establishing her as a respected figure in her field.

Conclusion

Leah K. Glynn demonstrates significant strengths in clinical nursing, leadership, and education, with a clear commitment to mental health and holistic care. Her academic achievements and innovative approach to patient care, particularly through her DNP work, make her a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. However, enhancing her research publications and gaining wider recognition through national or international platforms would further solidify her position as a leading researcher. With her continued professional growth, Leah has the potential to be a standout in the field.

Publication Top Notes

Bolstering group cohesion & reducing stress through implementation of stress first aid

  • Journal: Archives of Psychiatric Nursing
  • Year: 2024
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2024.09.002
  • Authors: Leah K. Glynn, Sean Convoy, Julie A. Thompson, Richard Westphal, Elaine Kauschinger, Kelia Britt, Sharron Rushton

 

Haiyan WU | Psychology | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Haiyan WU | Psychology | Women Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at University of Macau, China

Prof. Haiyan Wu is an Assistant Professor at the Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, with a research focus on cognitive neuroscience and decision-making. She holds a Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuroscience from Beijing Normal University and has previously held academic positions at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the California Institute of Technology. Her work explores neural mechanisms underlying social emotions, cognitive control, and decision-making, with numerous publications in high-impact journals such as NeuroImage and Cerebral Cortex. Prof. Wu has led several significant research projects funded by organizations such as the Science and Technology Development Fund of Macau and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. She has received multiple awards, including being named among the 30 Young Innovators in Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence. With an h-index of 26 and over 1,900 citations, her contributions have significantly advanced understanding in her field.

Profile

Education

Prof. Haiyan Wu has a robust academic background in psychology and cognitive neuroscience. She earned her Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuroscience from Beijing Normal University, China, between 2010 and 2013, where she focused on the neural mechanisms underlying human cognition. Prior to this, she completed her Master’s degree in Psychology at Zhejiang Normal University from 2007 to 2010, gaining a strong foundation in psychological theories and research methods. Prof. Wu’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Guangxi Normal University, completed in 2007, which provided her with a comprehensive understanding of educational theories and practices. Her diverse educational experiences across prominent Chinese universities have equipped her with a multidisciplinary perspective, combining psychology, neuroscience, and education, which now informs her research and teaching at the University of Macau. Her educational background has been pivotal in her development as an expert in cognitive and brain sciences.

Professional Experience

Prof. Haiyan Wu is an esteemed Assistant Professor at the Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Department of Psychology at the University of Macau, a position she has held since August 2020. Prior to this, she served as an Associate Professor at the Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, from 2017 to 2020. Her career also includes a Visiting Associate position at the California Institute of Technology between 2017 and 2019. Earlier, she worked as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, from 2013 to 2017. Prof. Wu’s professional journey highlights her significant contributions to the fields of cognitive neuroscience and psychology, with research focusing on neural mechanisms underlying social and cognitive behaviors. Her experience spans prestigious academic institutions, contributing to her reputation as a leading figure in cognitive and social neuroscience.

 Research Interest

Prof. Haiyan Wu’s research interests primarily lie in the fields of cognitive neuroscience and psychology, with a focus on the neural mechanisms underlying social behavior, decision-making, and cognitive control. Her work explores how the brain processes emotions, empathy, social conformity, and dishonesty, using advanced neuroimaging techniques like fMRI and EEG. Prof. Wu has investigated the role of oxytocin in modulating social emotions and behaviors, as well as the neural correlates of moral decision-making and cooperation. Additionally, her research delves into the cross-cultural neural mechanisms of kinship and the effects of group identity on empathy. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates behavioral science with neurophysiological analysis, aiming to understand the complex interactions between brain function, social dynamics, and cognitive processes. Prof. Wu’s research contributes to advancements in fields like social neuroscience, neuropsychology, and brain-inspired intelligence, bridging the gap between cognitive science and real-world social interactions.

Research Skills

Prof. Haiyan Wu is an expert in cognitive neuroscience and psychology, with a strong focus on decision-making, social behaviors, and neural mechanisms underlying cognitive processes. Her research skills include advanced neuroimaging techniques such as fMRI and EEG, which she uses to study brain activity related to empathy, social interaction, and cognitive control. She is proficient in data analysis using neurophysiological tools and has a deep understanding of behavioral science, integrating both psychological and neural data. Prof. Wu is also skilled in experimental design, especially in cross-cultural and social neuroscience research, investigating how social and emotional factors influence human decision-making. Additionally, she excels in using computational modeling to understand cognitive processes, contributing to the fields of neuroscience and artificial intelligence. Her collaborative work has led to innovative approaches in both theoretical and applied research, making significant contributions to cognitive and brain sciences.

Award and Recognition

Prof. Haiyan Wu, Ph.D., has received numerous awards and recognition for her outstanding contributions to psychology and neuroscience. In 2023, she was named one of the “30 Young Innovators in Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence,” highlighting her innovative research in cognitive neuroscience. She was also recognized for her excellence in mentorship when her PhD student, Yanyan Qi, received the prestigious Awards of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in 2018. Earlier, in 2017, she was honored as the Outstanding Associate Professor at the Institute of Psychology, CAS. Additionally, her academic excellence was acknowledged during her graduate studies when she was named an Outstanding Graduate Student at Zhejiang Normal University in 2010. Prof. Wu’s contributions to the scientific community are reflected in her leadership of numerous high-impact research projects, as well as her prolific publication record, which further solidifies her reputation as a leading figure in her field.

Conclusion

Dr. Wu’s stellar research, international collaborations, and numerous grants position her as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With further development in mentorship and public outreach, her influence can reach new heights.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Abnormal baseline brain activity in bipolar depression: a resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging study
    • Authors: C.H. Liu, F. Li, S.F. Li, Y.J. Wang, C.L. Tie, H.Y. Wu, Z. Zhou, D. Zhang, J. Dong, Z. Huang, H. Gong
    • Journal: Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging
    • Year: 2012
    • Volume: 203 (2-3)
    • Pages: 175-179
    • Citations: 138
  2. Title: Temporal course of executive control when lying about self- and other-referential information: an ERP study
    • Authors: X. Hu, H. Wu, G. Fu
    • Journal: Brain Research
    • Year: 2011
    • Volume: 1369
    • Pages: 149-157
    • Citations: 113
  3. Title: Neural signatures of social conformity: A coordinate-based activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis of functional brain imaging studies
    • Authors: H. Wu, Y. Luo, C. Feng
    • Journal: Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews
    • Year: 2016
    • Volume: 71
    • Pages: 101-111
    • Citations: 103
  4. Title: Suppression of aversive memories associates with changes in early and late stages of neurocognitive processing
    • Authors: C. Chen, C. Liu, R. Huang, D. Cheng, H. Wu, P. Xu, X. Mai, Y.J. Luo
    • Journal: Neuropsychologia
    • Year: 2012
    • Volume: 50 (12)
    • Pages: 2839-2848
    • Citations: 68
  5. Title: The procrastinators want it now: behavioral and event-related potential evidence of the procrastination of intertemporal choices
    • Authors: H. Wu, D. Gui, W. Lin, R. Gu, X. Zhu, X. Liu
    • Journal: Brain and Cognition
    • Year: 2016
    • Volume: 107
    • Pages: 16-23
    • Citations: 66
  6. Title: Unexpected acceptance? Patients with social anxiety disorder manifest their social expectancy in ERPs during social feedback processing
    • Authors: J. Cao, R. Gu, X. Bi, X. Zhu, H. Wu
    • Journal: Frontiers in Psychology
    • Year: 2015
    • Volume: 6
    • Article ID: 1745
    • Citations: 58
  7. Title: Mentalizing during social interaction: A four component model
    • Authors: H. Wu, X. Liu, C.C. Hagan, D. Mobbs
    • Journal: Cortex
    • Year: 2020
    • Volume: 126
    • Pages: 242-252
    • Citations: 57
  8. Title: A novel convolutional neural network model to remove muscle artifacts from EEG
    • Authors: H. Zhang, C. Wei, M. Zhao, Q. Liu, H. Wu
    • Conference: ICASSP 2021 – IEEE International Conference on Acoustics, Speech and Signal Processing
    • Year: 2021
    • Pages: n/a
    • Citations: 55
  9. Title: Machine Learning Applications on Neuroimaging for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Epilepsy: A Review
    • Authors: J. Yuan, X. Ran, K. Liu, C. Yao, Y. Yao, H. Wu, Q. Liu
    • Journal: Journal of Neuroscience Methods
    • Year: 2021
    • Article ID: 109441
    • Citations: 50
  10. Title: Altruistic and self-serving goals modulate behavioral and neural responses in deception
  • Authors: F. Cui, S. Wu, H. Wu, C. Wang, C. Jiao, Y. Luo
  • Journal: Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience
  • Year: 2018
  • Volume: 13 (1)
  • Pages: 63-71
  • Citations: 44