Xiaoqin Zhang | Mental illness | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaoqin Zhang | Mental illness | Women Researcher Award 

Associate Professor, at Ningbo University, China.

Dr. Xiaoqin Zhang is a distinguished researcher in pharmacology, cell biology, and neurobiology at Ningbo University School of Medicine. Her expertise lies in understanding the pathogenesis and regulatory mechanisms behind cognitive impairments in neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. With a focus on neurobiological mechanisms of learning and memory, her work aims to inform targeted drug interventions to mitigate cognitive decline. Dr. Zhang has led multiple research projects, leveraging her extensive skills in molecular and cellular biology, whole-cell recordings, and behavioral assessments. Her commitment to advancing neuropharmacology is evident in her impactful publications and research contributions. 📚🔬

Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Education

  • BS in Pharmaceutical Engineering: Dr. Zhang began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree from Wenzhou Medical University School of Pharmacy, gaining foundational knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences.
  • MS in Pharmacology: She pursued a Master’s degree at Zhejiang University School of Medicine, where she developed her skills in pharmacology, focusing on molecular mechanisms in brain disorders.
  • PhD in Neurobiology: Dr. Zhang completed her doctorate at Zhejiang University, where she specialized in neurobiology, researching the cognitive impairments associated with Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. 🎓👩‍🔬

Experience

Dr. Zhang has a robust academic and research career with a focus on neurobiology and pharmacology. At Ningbo University, she plays a critical role as a researcher and mentor, guiding projects on cognitive impairments in neurological diseases. Her work spans administering grants, publishing influential studies, and advancing molecular and cellular research methodologies. Her expertise includes advanced techniques such as whole-cell recordings and behavioral assessments, which she applies to investigate synaptic plasticity and neural circuitry. Additionally, she collaborates on multidisciplinary projects that bridge neurobiology and pharmacological research. 🧪📊

Research Interests

Dr. Zhang’s research explores the pathogenesis and regulation of cognitive impairments in diseased brains, focusing on Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. Her studies delve into neurobiological mechanisms underlying learning and memory, providing theoretical frameworks for neural circuit regulation. Her work includes investigations into synaptic plasticity, cognitive function, and targeted drug intervention. By examining cellular and molecular pathways, Dr. Zhang seeks to contribute to the development of therapeutic approaches that enhance cognitive health in patients with neurological disorders. 🧠💊

Awards

Dr. Zhang has received accolades for her pioneering research in neurobiology and pharmacology, including prestigious grants to support her work on cognitive impairment mechanisms in brain disorders. She has been honored for her impactful publications, particularly those exploring Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia, and her work is recognized by her peers for advancing the field of cognitive neuroscience. Her dedication to research excellence has positioned her as a key contributor in her field, and her work continues to garner support and recognition. 🏆🎖️

Publications 

  • Dong, Y., Fu, C., Zhang, T., et al. “Abnormal hippocampal neurogenesis and impaired social recognition memory in two neurodevelopmental models of schizophrenia.” FASEB J., 2024, 38(21)Link to publication
  • Zhang, T., Liu, C., Zhong, N., et al. “Advances in the treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia: targeting NMDA receptor pathways.” Int J Mol Sci., 2024, 25(19):10668.
    Link to publication
  • Shang, Q., Dong, Y., Zhang, X., et al. “Environmental enrichment improves recognition memory in adult mice following social isolation.” Molecular Neurobiology., 2024, 61(6):3742-3752.
    Link to publication
  • Zhang, X., Xu, L., Zhu, X., et al. “D-serine reconstitutes inhibitory control of pyramidal neurons in a schizophrenia model.” Nature Communications., 2023, 14(1):8255.
    Link to publication
  • Zhu, X., Luo, J., Zhang, X., et al. “PPARα in diet-induced risk avoidance impairment via hippocampal BDNF regulation.” Food & Function., 2023, 14(14):6541-6553.

            Link to publication

Conclusion

Dr. Xiaoqin Zhang is highly qualified for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her robust academic foundation, extensive publication record, and impactful research on cognitive impairment make her a deserving candidate. Her work in Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia aligns with pressing societal health challenges, and her expertise in both experimental and theoretical neurobiology offers substantial contributions to the field. Recognizing her with this award would not only acknowledge her achievements but also support her ongoing work with high potential for further impact.

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

 

 

Ambika C Suneesh | Psychiatric Care Award | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Ambika C Suneesh | Psychiatric Care Award | Women Researcher Award

Professor at Amala college of Nursing, India.

Ambika is a highly accomplished nursing educator and mental health professional with a strong academic background and extensive experience. She holds a PhD in Mental Health Nursing and an MPhil in Mental Health Nursing, along with postgraduate and undergraduate degrees in nursing. Ambika’s research interests include motivational interviewing, mindfulness meditation, and substance abuse among adolescents. She has published several papers in reputable journals and presented her research at national conferences. Ambika’s dedication to nursing education is evident from her roles as Vice Principal and Associate Professor, where she teaches various nursing subjects and oversees academic and administrative functions. She is also actively involved in cultural activities and community health programs. Ambika’s skills in teaching, research, and clinical practice, along with her numerous achievements, make her a valuable asset to the nursing profession.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Ambika has a strong educational background in nursing and mental health nursing. She completed her PhD in Mental Health Nursing from Rani Meyyammai College of Nursing, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu. She also holds an MPhil in Mental Health Nursing from Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal, Karnataka, where she achieved a remarkable 75.33% marks. Prior to this, Ambika completed her post-graduation in Mental Health Nursing from Government College of Nursing, Kozhikode under Calicut University, Kerala, where she obtained 67.79% of marks. Her journey in nursing education began with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Government College of Nursing, Kozhikode under Calicut University, Kerala, where she scored 70.58% of marks. Ambika’s academic foundation includes a Pre-degree from Calicut University, Kerala, and SSLC from the Board Of Secondary Education, Kerala. Her educational accomplishments reflect her dedication to nursing, particularly in the field of mental health nursing, and her commitment to academic excellence.

Research Experience:

Ambika has a significant research background in nursing, particularly in mental health nursing. She has conducted research on various topics, including motivational interviewing as a supplementary therapy for cannabis use disorder, the socio-demographic profile of late childhood and adolescence abusing cannabis, and the use of mindfulness meditation to improve the quality of life for patients with cannabis abuse. Her research has been published in reputable journals such as the International Journal of Advanced Psychiatric Nursing, the International Journal of Public Health Research and Development, and the IOSR Journal of Nursing and Health Science. Additionally, Ambika has presented her findings at national conferences, demonstrating her commitment to advancing the field of mental health nursing through evidence-based practices and empirical research.

Research Interest:

Ambika’s research interests primarily focus on mental health nursing, with a particular emphasis on interventions and therapies for substance use disorders such as cannabis abuse. She is also interested in exploring the socio-demographic factors associated with substance abuse among adolescents. Additionally, Ambika is interested in mindfulness meditation as a potential intervention to enhance the quality of life for individuals struggling with substance abuse issues. Her research demonstrates a commitment to understanding and improving mental health outcomes, especially in populations affected by substance abuse.

Award and Honors:

Ambika has received several awards and honors in recognition of her contributions to the field of nursing and mental health. Notably, she secured the first prize in a Diabetes Selfie Competition organized by Iqraa Diabetic Centre in connection with World Diabetes Day. She has also received accolades for her academic achievements, including securing the highest marks in Designing Nursing Curriculum during her MPhil Nursing studies and achieving the highest marks in the first year of her MPhil Nursing program. Additionally, Ambika’s participation in cultural activities and community health programs, such as the Women Marathon Dauntless 2017 organized by the NSS unit of JDT Islam Arts College, highlights her dedication to promoting health and well-being beyond the academic realm.

Skills:

Ambika possesses a diverse set of skills that are valuable in her role as a nursing educator and mental health professional. Her teaching skills are evident from her experience in teaching various subjects like Mental Health Nursing, Nursing Research, Nursing Education, and Nursing Service Administration. She also has strong research skills, as demonstrated by her numerous publications in reputable journals and presentations at national conferences. Ambika’s clinical skills are evident from her experience in assisting in various nursing procedures and her registration as a Nurse/Midwife with The Kerala Nurses and Midwives Council. Additionally, her organizational skills are highlighted by her role as Vice Principal at KMCT College of Nursing, where she oversees various academic and administrative functions. Overall, Ambika’s skills make her a well-rounded and effective nursing educator and mental health professional.

Achievements:

Ambika has achieved several noteworthy accomplishments throughout her career in nursing and mental health. She has been recognized for her academic excellence, winning prizes and securing the highest marks in various nursing-related subjects and examinations. Ambika has also received awards for her research contributions, including publications in reputable journals and presentations at national conferences. Her active participation in cultural activities and community health programs showcases her commitment to promoting health and well-being beyond her professional duties. Ambika’s role as a resource person and her involvement in accreditation processes highlight her leadership and expertise in the field of nursing education. Overall, Ambika’s achievements reflect her dedication to advancing nursing practice and mental health care.