Yi Zhang | Obesity and Inhibitory-control | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yi Zhang | Obesity and inhibitory-control | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Xidian University, China

Dr. Yi Zhang is a distinguished neuroscientist and professor at the School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, China, where he also directs the Center for Brain Imaging. Born in Xi’an, Shaanxi, China, in 1980, Dr. Zhang has dedicated his academic and research career to exploring the brain’s mechanisms using advanced neuroimaging tools. With a PhD in Pattern Recognition and Intelligent Systems, he combines engineering and neuroscience to investigate conditions like obesity, addiction, and acupuncture effects. He has published over 80 journal articles and served on editorial boards of several high-impact journals. His work emphasizes functional MRI, brain modulation, and neurofeedback to improve cognitive and behavioral health. Recognized with multiple national awards, Dr. Zhang has also served as a visiting scholar in the U.S. and holds memberships in prestigious global neuroscience and medical imaging societies. His research continues to drive innovation in non-invasive brain intervention and signal processing techniques.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Yi Zhang’s academic journey is rooted in Xidian University, Xi’an, China, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering in 2003. He continued his postgraduate studies in the same institution, receiving his Master’s degree in 2006 and PhD in 2009 in Pattern Recognition and Intelligent Systems, focusing on integrating engineering and intelligent control with neural research. His passion for bridging technology and life sciences led him to further his academic exposure abroad. From 2010 to 2011, he was a visiting scholar at the Department of Psychiatry and McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Florida College of Medicine in the United States. This international experience broadened his expertise in functional MRI and advanced medical imaging. His multidisciplinary educational background has laid a strong foundation for his research in brain imaging, signal processing, and behavioral neuroscience, allowing him to contribute significantly to understanding neural mechanisms in health and disease.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Yi Zhang has had a progressive academic career at Xidian University, starting as a Teaching Assistant in the School of Electronic Engineering (2006–2008), followed by roles as Lecturer (2008–2010), Associate Professor (2010–2015), and Professor since 2015 at the School of Life Science and Technology. His teaching has been complemented by his leadership as Director of the Center for Brain Imaging, where he spearheads interdisciplinary research projects. He has collaborated internationally as a visiting scholar at the University of Florida, enhancing his global perspective in brain imaging. His professional contributions encompass mentoring, publishing, and developing cutting-edge research on obesity, addiction, acupuncture, and real-time neurofeedback. Dr. Zhang has also held key editorial and organizational roles, showcasing his dedication to academic excellence. With over 15 years of continuous experience, he remains a prominent figure in neuroimaging, blending teaching and research to cultivate innovation in neuroscience and intelligent systems.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Yi Zhang has been the recipient of several prestigious national and institutional honors in recognition of his contributions to neuroscience and medical imaging. In 2022, he received the First Prize of the Shaanxi Higher Education Science and Technology Award for his research on brain modulation in obese patients. His work on acupuncture mechanisms using fMRI earned him First and Second Prizes from the China Society for Stereo Vision and Beijing Natural Science Award in 2015 and 2014, respectively. He was named an Early Career Investigator under the “Hua Mountain Scholar Program” in 2014 and by NIDA’s mini-convention in 2011. Additional accolades include First Prizes from the Shaanxi Higher Education and second prize from the Provincial Science and Technology Award in 2011. These recognitions affirm his innovative work in functional neuroimaging and its applications in cognitive enhancement, pain management, and behavioral intervention. His research continues to garner attention and impact across disciplines.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Yi Zhang’s research lies at the intersection of brain science, medical imaging, and behavioral neuroscience. His primary focus is the application of functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to investigate brain activity in conditions like obesity, heroin addiction, and acupuncture. As Director of the Center for Brain Imaging, he leads studies on real-time neurofeedback to modulate brain functions, especially appetite and reward mechanisms. His work aims to decode neural patterns and develop interventions that influence behavior and cognition. With an engineering background, he also develops advanced signal processing algorithms to handle dynamic, multivariate neurobiological data. His interdisciplinary approach has helped bridge neuroscience and intelligent systems, enabling novel therapeutic strategies. Dr. Zhang’s research has influenced fields like psychopharmacology, neurofeedback therapy, and brain modulation, providing insights into the biological basis of behavior and supporting non-invasive treatment strategies. He has co-authored over 80 journal papers, affirming his position as a leader in neuroimaging innovation.

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Yi Zhang stands out as a visionary neuroscientist whose interdisciplinary expertise in engineering and life sciences advances brain imaging and cognitive neuroscience. Through pioneering research in fMRI, neurofeedback, and brain modulation, he addresses critical health issues like obesity, addiction, and pain. With a distinguished academic record, numerous awards, and a global scholarly presence, Dr. Zhang continues to shape the future of neuroscience research and education through his leadership, innovation, and dedication to improving human health.

Publications

  • A hybrid network integrating convolution and transformer for thymoma segmentation

    Intelligent Medicine
    2023-08 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.imed.2022.06.003
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jingyuan Li; Wenfang Sun; Xiulong Feng; Karen M. von Deneen; Wen Wang; Guangbin Cui; Yi Zhang

  • MG-Net: Multi-level global-aware network for thymoma segmentation

    Computers in Biology and Medicine
    2023-03 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.106635
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jingyuan Li; Wenfang Sun; Karen M. von Deneen; Xiao Fan; Gang An; Guangbin Cui; Yi Zhang

  • Electroacupuncture enhances resting-state functional connectivity between dorsal caudate and precuneus and decreases associated leptin levels in overweight/obese subjects

    Brain Imaging and Behavior
    2022-02 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1007/s11682-021-00519-3
    CONTRIBUTORS: Yang He; Karen M. von Deneen; Guanya Li; Borong Jing; Yanyan Zhou; Kaiya Zhang; Yi Zhang; Yuanyuan

  • A dense connection encoding–decoding convolutional neural network structure for semantic segmentation of thymoma

    Neurocomputing
    2021-09 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.neucom.2021.04.023
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jingyuan Li; Wenfang Sun; Xiulong Feng; Gang Xing; Karen M. von Deneen; Wen Wang; Yi Zhang; Guangbin Cui

Busra Buran | Decision Making | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Busra Buran | Decision Making | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar| Istanbul Technical University, Turkey

Dr. Büşra Buran, born on August 13, 1988, in Kocaeli, Turkey, is a prominent expert in management engineering with a career deeply rooted in public transportation strategy and optimization. She currently serves as the Head of Strategy Development at IETT, Istanbul’s public transport authority. With over a decade of professional experience, Dr. Buran has successfully led numerous projects involving strategic planning, quality management, service improvement, and international collaboration. Her academic achievements include a Ph.D. in Management Engineering from Istanbul Technical University, an M.Sc. in Industrial Engineering from Galatasaray University, and a B.Eng. in Industrial Engineering from Yıldız Technical University. Fluent in English, she combines technical expertise with leadership capabilities, supported by various certifications in project management, quality control, and innovation. Her work has been recognized internationally, and she actively contributes to research with several publications focusing on fuzzy logic applications, transportation models, and digital transformation strategies in public transit systems.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Büşra Buran holds a robust academic background in industrial and management engineering. She completed her Ph.D. in Business Management Engineering at Istanbul Technical University (2018–2023), graduating with a GPA of 3.5/4. Her doctoral research focused on advanced decision-making methods and innovation in public transportation. Prior to that, she earned her Master of Science in Industrial Engineering from Galatasaray University (2010–2012), achieving a GPA of 3.5/4. She began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Yıldız Technical University (2007–2010), graduating with distinction (3.4/4). Her academic excellence is complemented by certifications in project management, innovation, quality systems, and team leadership. Dr. Buran’s education is deeply integrated with applied engineering practices, statistical modeling (SPSS, Minitab), simulation tools (Simul8), and machine learning (R), equipping her with a strong foundation in both theory and practice. Her studies enabled her to apply analytical, technical, and managerial skills to large-scale public service systems.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Büşra Buran has extensive professional experience in the public transportation sector, primarily at IETT, Istanbul’s leading transit authority. Since 2017, she has been serving as the Head of Strategy Development, where she manages strategic planning, performance metrics, quality systems, corporate innovation, and international partnerships. From 2014 to 2017, she was the Manager of Service Improvement, leading the development of a service quality model, auditing standards, and benchmarking global practices. Between 2013 and 2014, she worked as the Manager of Operation Planning, handling performance analysis and optimization of bus networks, including collaborative projects with TÜBİTAK. Her career began in 2010 as a Consultant for Istanbul’s Bus Rapid Transit system, optimizing routes and managing training for international BRT implementations. She is experienced in project management, process auditing, KPI reporting, and digital transformation. Her leadership has significantly enhanced the efficiency and global standing of Istanbul’s public transport network.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Büşra Buran has consistently demonstrated academic and professional excellence throughout her career. She graduated with honors at every level—achieving GPAs of 3.4/4 in her undergraduate studies, 3.5/4 in her master’s, and 3.5/4 during her Ph.D. She has also been recognized for her contributions to transportation planning and quality improvement at IETT, receiving internal commendations for successful project outcomes and strategic innovations. Her scientific research on fuzzy logic applications in public transport and sentiment analysis during the COVID-19 pandemic has been published in prestigious journals and international conferences by Springer and Elsevier. She has also earned certifications in Project Management, Corporate Quality, Risk & Process Management, and Leadership Innovation, strengthening her credentials as a thought leader in urban mobility systems. Her scholarly achievements, combined with her impactful real-world projects, highlight her as a distinguished figure in engineering management and urban transportation.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Buran’s research centers on the intersection of engineering management, public transportation systems, and fuzzy decision-making models. Her Ph.D. work and subsequent publications explore advanced methodologies such as Spherical and Intuitionistic Fuzzy AHP, hybrid fuzzy systems, sentiment analysis, and business model frameworks tailored for urban transport. She has published widely on topics such as bus type selection, public transport quality modeling, and global benchmarking of transit business models. Her studies frequently employ machine learning and simulation tools like R and Simul8, along with statistical software for system optimization. A significant part of her work also delves into digital transformation, strategic innovation, and service efficiency in public bus systems, particularly in mega-cities like Istanbul. Her research not only contributes theoretical advancements in engineering management but also provides practical insights for decision-makers in transit agencies, enhancing transportation planning, passenger satisfaction, and sustainable mobility strategies.

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Büşra Buran exemplifies the synergy between academic research and public sector innovation. With her strong background in industrial and management engineering, she has driven strategic advancements in Istanbul’s public transportation. Her work is a testament to effective leadership, data-driven decision-making, and continuous quality improvement in urban mobility systems.

Publications

Han Xi | Problem Solving | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Han Xi | Problem Solving | Best Researcher Award

Han Xi is a dedicated Lecturer at Huanghe Jiaotong University and a doctoral candidate in Traffic Engineering at Chongqing Jiaotong University (expected 2025), currently engaged in cutting-edge research on asphalt aging mechanisms and the development of anti-aging road materials. Since joining the academic faculty in 2020, Han has undertaken significant research, contributing to national-level projects such as the Henan Provincial Social Sciences Association Project. With published articles in reputed journals like Material Guide and Journal of Chongqing Jiaotong University, and patents addressing asphalt UV aging testing, Han’s work bridges theoretical innovation with practical engineering application. Passionate about infrastructure sustainability, she explores microstructural changes in asphalt due to UV exposure and seeks to enhance material performance through novel compositions. Her contributions extend to advancing scientific understanding and industrial applications in pavement material science. Han Xi exemplifies interdisciplinary innovation at the intersection of civil engineering and material science.

Profile

Education 🎓

Han Xi began her academic journey at Huanghe Jiaotong University in 2020 and was soon enrolled in the Contractual Doctoral Training Program in Traffic Engineering at Chongqing Jiaotong University in 2021. She is anticipated to complete her doctoral degree by June 2025. Her academic focus is on the intersection of materials science and transportation engineering, especially the impact of ultraviolet (UV) aging on asphalt materials. During her doctoral studies, Han has explored the structural and chemical evolution of asphalt subjected to environmental stressors, contributing to a deeper understanding of material degradation. She integrates theoretical analysis with experimental validation, utilizing advanced testing systems to study rheological and molecular transformations in aged road materials. Her educational path reflects a strong commitment to research excellence, practical innovation, and cross-disciplinary problem-solving, preparing her to address real-world engineering challenges with scientific rigor and methodological precision.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Since 2020, Han Xi has served as a Lecturer at Huanghe Jiaotong University, where she teaches and guides undergraduate students while actively conducting research in road materials engineering. Her experience includes managing a provincial research project and contributing to the design of experimental setups for asphalt aging analysis. Simultaneously, she has undertaken her PhD studies through a contractual training program at Chongqing Jiaotong University, balancing academic responsibilities with doctoral research. Han’s professional journey is marked by innovation, such as her development of patented UV aging testing devices for asphalt. She has presented and published scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals and engaged in collaborations that merge scientific inquiry with practical infrastructure solutions. Her dual roles in teaching and research have allowed her to inspire students while contributing significantly to advancements in road engineering, with a focus on environmental durability and material longevity

Research Interests 🔬

Han Xi’s research centers on the aging mechanisms of asphalt, particularly under ultraviolet (UV) radiation, with a goal of developing advanced, anti-aging road materials that improve pavement durability. She investigates the molecular structure changes, rheological behavior, and chemical transformations that occur during UV and coupled aging processes. Her work combines theoretical modeling with practical experimentation using custom-designed devices—evidenced by her two patented innovations—to simulate and measure asphalt degradation. Through her ongoing doctoral research at Chongqing Jiaotong University, Han examines the structure-activity relationship of aged asphalt and correlates macroscopic changes with microscopic composition. This research provides valuable insights for enhancing the lifespan of road infrastructure and supports the development of environmentally resilient transportation systems. Her scientific contributions aim to solve real-world problems in road engineering by integrating material science, environmental factors, and performance analytics into a unified research agenda focused on sustainable infrastructure.

Faheem Arshad | Cognitive Neurosciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Faheem Arshad | Cognitive Neurosciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Faheem Arshad is an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru. A leading cognitive neurologist in India, he specializes in dementia and neurodegenerative disorders. He played a pivotal role in establishing India’s first cognitive disorders registry at NIMHANS, integrating clinical and research excellence. Dr. Arshad is a Senior Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and the first fellow from South Asia. His research integrates neurogenetics, biomarkers, imaging, and clinical trials, with a focus on inclusivity and low-literacy populations. He actively contributes to national and international collaborations and holds leadership roles within Indian and global neurology communities. Committed to early diagnosis, caregiver support, and prevention strategies, his work aims to improve brain health equity in diverse settings. His ongoing studies explore social interaction, bilingualism, and digital tools in dementia management.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Arshad received his foundational training in Internal Medicine (MD, 2014) at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Kashmir. He served as Registrar in Internal Medicine at AIIMS, New Delhi until 2016. He pursued advanced neurological training at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, earning a DM in Neurology (2019) and completing a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Cognitive Neurosciences (2020). He furthered his expertise with a prestigious international fellowship in Global Brain Health Equity at the Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), USA in 2021. Dr. Arshad also holds the MRCP(UK) Neurology credential (2020), reflecting global competence. His multidisciplinary training spans cognitive neurology, imaging, biomarkers, and dementia prevention, equipping him with a holistic approach to brain health research and patient care.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Faheem Arshad’s professional journey spans over a decade of clinical, academic, and research excellence. He is currently Assistant Professor of Neurology at NIMHANS, Bengaluru, where he has led initiatives in cognitive neurology since 2021. His early training included roles as Junior and Senior Resident in Internal Medicine at SKIMS and AIIMS, followed by Neurology Residency and Postdoctoral Fellowship at NIMHANS. He became a faculty leader and Convener of the Cognitive Neurology subsection of the Indian Academy of Neurology in 2023. Internationally, he served as an Atlantic Fellow at UCSF’s GBHI (2020–2021), developing leadership in brain health equity. Dr. Arshad is a member of the American Academy of Neurology and other prestigious forums. He has published widely, initiated clinical trials, and built registries that bridge clinical insights with translational research. His work integrates social science, neurobiology, and global health in addressing dementia across underserved populations.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Faheem Arshad has received numerous recognitions for his contributions to neurology and dementia research. He was awarded the Bursary Award at the TSS International Neuropsychiatry Conference (2018) for his work on social cognition in Frontotemporal Dementia. As the first South Asian to become a Senior Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health at UCSF’s GBHI, he has been globally recognized for championing equity in dementia care and research. His appointment as Convener of the Cognitive Neurology subsection by the Indian Academy of Neurology in 2023 highlights his leadership within the national academic community. He holds the MRCP(UK) in Neurology and is an active member of prestigious societies, including the American Academy of Neurology. These honors reflect his ongoing commitment to research innovation, community-based care models, and international collaboration in the field of neurodegenerative disorders.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Faheem Arshad’s research focuses on dementia, particularly Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), Alzheimer’s Disease, and related neurodegenerative conditions. He investigates cognitive reserve, biomarkers, social cognition, neuroimaging, and bilingualism in dementia resilience. His landmark projects include exploring the role of social interaction in FTD (GBHI-AA), plasmapheresis in Alzheimer’s (ICMR), cognitive testing in low-literacy settings, and bilingualism’s impact on cognitive reserve (NIH-funded). He co-leads a SERB-funded project using speech features for early dementia detection and a DBT-funded imaging study for vascular dementia diagnosis. He established India’s first cognitive disorders registry at NIMHANS, integrating socio-demographics, imaging, and biomarker data. His work bridges clinical neurology and public health, emphasizing inclusive research for underrepresented populations. A strong advocate for clinical trials in LMICs, his studies integrate AI tools, cross-cultural data, and longitudinal analyses to improve early diagnosis and therapeutic strategies in dementia care.

Publications

Elsa Pittaras | Neuroscience | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Elsa Pittaras | Neuroscience | Women Researcher Award

Elsa Pittaras is a Basic Life Research Scientist at Stanford University, specializing in neuroscience, cognition, and sleep research. With expertise in molecular biology, neuroanatomy, pharmacology, and behavior, she has extensively studied decision-making processes in mice. Her research has contributed significantly to understanding sleep deprivation’s effects on cognition and memory in Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease models. She has published multiple papers as both first and last author, showcasing her leadership in neuroscience. Elsa’s goal is to advance research on mood disorders, cognition, and neurochemistry, aspiring to become an independent researcher in the U.S. 🇺🇸🔬🧠

Profile

Education 🎓

Elsa Pittaras earned a B.S. in Physiology from the University of Caen (2010), an M.S. in Neuroscience from the University of Paris Sud and ENS Cachan (2012), and a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Neuro-PSI and the Biomedical Research Unit of the French Army (2016). Her multidisciplinary foundation in biology, physics, chemistry, and mathematics from Châtelet, Douai (2009) laid the groundwork for her neuroscience expertise. Throughout her education, she focused on decision-making, sleep deprivation, and neurochemical mechanisms in cognition. 🧠📚🎓

Experience 👨‍🏫

Elsa Pittaras has been a Basic Life Research Scientist at Stanford University since 2022, focusing on cognitive enhancement in Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease models. She was a Postdoctoral Fellow at Stanford (2017-2022), investigating sleep and circadian rhythms’ effects on memory. Previously, she conducted research at the Biomedical Research Unit of the French Army (2016-2017) and completed her Ph.D. at Neuro-PSI. Her career includes internships in neuroscience at Neuro-PSI (2011-2012) and clinical observations at CHU Caen (2010). 🏛️🧬🧪

Research Interests 🔬

Elsa’s research explores decision-making, memory, and sleep in neurodevelopmental disorders. She pioneered the Mouse Gambling Task, revealing individual decision-making strategies. Her Ph.D. identified neurochemical markers of decision-making behaviors and the effects of sleep deprivation. At Stanford, she investigates sleep’s impact on cognition in Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s models, aiming to improve memory and sleep quality through pharmacological interventions. Her work bridges behavioral neuroscience with neurochemistry to enhance cognitive function. 🧠💡🛌

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Elsa has received prestigious grants, including the Jerome Lejeune Research Grants (2019, 2020), the Fyssen Foundation Research Grant (2017), and travel awards for conferences such as T21RS (2021) and Advances in Sleep and Circadian Science (2019). She was also recognized by the French Society for Research and Sleep Medicine (2014) and received a European Neuroscience Federation travel award (2016). 🏅

Publications 

  • Selectively Blocking Small Conductance Ca2+-Activated K+ Channels Improves Cognition in Aged Mice.

  • Short-term γ-aminobutyric acid antagonist treatment improves long-term sleep quality, memory, and decision-making in a Down syndrome mouse model

  • Behavioral and Neuronal Characterizations, across Ages, of the TgSwDI Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease.

  • Inter-individual differences in cognitive tasks: focusing on the shaping of decision-making strategies

  • Handling, task complexity, time-of-day, and sleep deprivation as dynamic modulators of recognition memory in mice

  • Enhancing sleep after training improves memory in down syndrome model mice

 

Xiuwei Zhang | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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 Dr. Xiuwei Zhang | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Xiuwei Zhang, PhD, is a researcher at Hefei University of Technology, specializing in traffic behavior and psychology. She holds a doctoral degree from Hefei University of Technology, where her work focuses on improving traffic safety through behavioral psychology methods. Zhang’s research addresses critical issues such as driver behavioral changes and children’s perception of street crossing hazards. She is deeply involved in advancing traffic safety by understanding how people interact with traffic environments, with an emphasis on psychological cognition. Zhang has also contributed significantly to the field through several published papers and patents, aiming to enhance both driver and pedestrian safety. With an established academic career and passion for traffic psychology, Zhang aims to provide actionable solutions to improve road safety globally.

Profile

Education 🎓

Xiuwei Zhang completed her undergraduate studies at Qingdao University of Science and Technology. She pursued her master’s and doctoral degrees at Hefei University of Technology, where she focused on traffic behavior and psychology. During her time at Hefei, Zhang developed a deep understanding of how psychological factors influence road safety, particularly in the context of driver behavior and children’s traffic hazard perception. Her academic training has allowed her to integrate cognitive psychology with transportation safety, paving the way for innovative solutions to reduce traffic-related accidents. Zhang’s educational background in this interdisciplinary field has made her a strong proponent of using behavioral psychology to improve urban traffic environments, with her research significantly contributing to traffic safety science.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Xiuwei Zhang has experience conducting impactful research on traffic psychology at Hefei University of Technology, where she has worked on driver behavior, risk perception, and children’s safety while crossing streets. She contributed to multiple key projects, such as the optimization of urban road intersections using intelligent detection and the evolution of driver’s risk perception in co-driving vehicles. Zhang participated in developing local and national standards, such as the “Evaluation Standard for Driver Takeover Ability of Autonomous Vehicles.” Her patents include solutions for assessing and preventing conflicts between human-vehicle interactions in signal intersections. Additionally, Zhang’s academic role extends to reviewing papers for Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behavior. She is an active participant in cutting-edge research projects, such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Anhui Province’s housing and urban development projects, focusing on making roads safer through innovative traffic designs and behavioral analysis.

Research Interests 🔬

Xiuwei Zhang’s research focuses on traffic behavior and psychology, with particular attention to driver behavior, children’s traffic safety, and cognitive biases in road environments. Her work aims to enhance the perception of road hazards, particularly among children, and to improve road safety through behavioral psychology techniques. One of her significant contributions is the study of children’s perception of street-crossing risks under visually occluded conditions, providing valuable insights into how environmental factors impact traffic behavior. Zhang’s research on driver behavior changes, particularly in co-driving scenarios with automated vehicles, seeks to develop better risk perception strategies to improve safety on the roads. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates traffic safety with cognitive science, making her work influential in both the practical and theoretical aspects of traffic safety. Zhang’s innovations also extend to the design of intelligent traffic systems and road intersections, contributing to the future of urban road safety in smart cities.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Xiuwei Zhang has received several prestigious awards and honors during her academic career, including the “Outstanding Graduate of the School Class of 2024” and multiple scholarships, such as the School Second Class Scholarship for the 2022-2023 academic year. Her excellence as a volunteer was recognized when she was named the “Outstanding Red Cross Volunteer” of Qingdao West Coast New District in 2018. Zhang’s consistent academic achievements are highlighted by her scholarships across multiple years and her significant contributions as a member of the Auto Traffic College Institute Graduate Student Association. These accolades reflect her dedication to research, teaching, and community service. Zhang’s awards demonstrate her potential as a leader in traffic safety research and behavioral psychology, highlighting her academic excellence and contributions to improving road safety.

Publications 📚

Reyhan Eskiyurt | Assertiveness | Cognitive Bias Awareness

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Prof Dr. Reyhan Eskiyurt | Assertiveness | Cognitive Bias Awareness

She graduated from Gazi University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing in 2010. From 2010 to 2015, she worked at Hacettepe University Hospitals Psychiatry Clinic. Since 2015, she has been working at Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychiatric Nursing. She completed her PhD program in 2020. Between 2014 and 2021, she received Cognitive and Behavioral Psychotherapy training organized by the Association of Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapies and was certified as a Cognitive Therapist by the Academy of Cognitive Therapy in 2020. She continues her work in this field.

Profile

Education

She completed her doctorate at Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Turkey, from 2016 to 2020. Prior to that, she pursued postgraduate studies at Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, from 2015 to 2016, and at Ankara University from 2014 to 2015. She earned her undergraduate degree from Gazi University, Turkey, between 2006 and 2010. She has an intermediate-level proficiency in English (B1). Additionally, she received vocational training in Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy from the Academy of Cognitive Therapy in 2020.

Books /Chapters in Books：

I. Nursing Approaches to Medical y Unexplained Symptoms
ÖzkanB.,EskiyurtR.
in:PatientswithMedicalyUnexplained Symptoms at the IntersectionofBody and Soul,Prof.Dr.AliÇayköylü,
Editor, İstanbulTıpKitabevi, İstanbul,pp.122-133,2024
I . Assessment of Suicide Risk: Psychiatric Nursing Practices
EskiyurtR.
in:CurrentStudies inCommunityMentalHealthNursing,Dr.Öğr.ÜyesiMustafaDurmuş,Editor,BİDGEYayınları,
Ankara,pp.54-80,2024
I I. Empathy
EskiyurtR.
in:SağlıkAlanında İletişimBecerileri,Doç.Dr.BirgülÖzkan,Dr.Öğr.ÜyesiReyhanEskiyurt,Editor,NobelTıpKitapevi,
Ankara,pp.65-76,2024
IV. Knowing Yourself and People
EskiyurtR.
in:SağlıkAlanında İletişimBecerileri,Doç.Dr.BirgülÖzkan,Dr.Öğr.ÜyesiReyhanEskiyurt,Editor,NobelTıp
Kitapevi,Ankara,pp.1-11,2024
V. Afetlerin Ruh Sağlığına Etkileri
ESKİYURTR.
in:AfetHemşireliğineBütüncülYaklaşım,UygulamaAlanlarıveGüncelDeneyimler ,ATASOYESMA,ÖZPULAT
FUNDA,Editor,Nobel,Ankara,pp.439-466,2024
VI. Assertiveness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
EskiyurtR.
in:ÇocukveErgenlerdeBilişselDavranışçıTerapiUygulamaları I,Doç.Dr.MehmetAliYıldız,Editor,NOBEL
AKADEMİKYAYINCILIK,Ankara,pp.137-159,2022
VI . HEMŞİRELİK ÖĞRENCİLERİNİN İLETİŞİMBECERİ DÜZEYLERİNEWEB TABANLI YAKLAŞIMLARIN
ETKİSİ: BİR SİSTEMATİK DERLEME
Arabacı İ.,ÖZKANB.,ESKİYURT

Publication

  • I. Exploring the impact of col aborative learning on the development of critical thinking and clinical
    decision-making skil s in nursing students: A quantitative descriptive design
    ESKİYURTR.,ÖZKANB.
    Heliyon,vol.10,no.17,2024 (SCI-Expanded)
  • The investigation of the relationship between probability of suicide and reasons for living in
    psychiatric inpatients.
    EskiyurtR.,OzkanB.
    Indianjournalofpsychiatry,vol.59,pp.435-441,2017 (SCI-Expanded)
  • Analysis of The Relationship Between Alexithymia, Depression, Anxiety and Empathy Skil s of
    Nursing Senior Students
    EskiyurtR.,AtkanF.,ÖzkanB.
    GümüşhaneÜniversitesiSağlıkBilimleriDergisi,vol.13,no.4,pp.1680-1689,2024 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)
  • Analysis of The Relationship Between Alexithymia, Depression, Anxiety and Empathy Skil s of
    Nursing Senior Students
    EskiyurtR.,AtkanF.,ÖzkanB.
    GümüşhaneÜniversitesiSağlıkBilimleriDergisi,vol.13,no.4,pp.1680-1689,2024 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)
  • AWARENESS and ATTITUDES of the UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS in the FIELD of HEALTH RELATED
    to the TESTABILITY of INFORMATION on SOCIAL MEDIA: THE CASE of ANKARA YILDIRIMBEYAZIT
    UNIVERSITY
    AlacaE.,EskiyurtR.
    ArşivDünyası,vol.9,no.1,pp.41-60,2022 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)
  • Determination of Social Anxiety Levels of Distance Education University Students.
    EskiyurtR.,AlacaE.
    CURRENTAPPROACHES INPSYCHIATRY,vol.13,pp.257-269,2021 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)

said Pournaghash-tehrani | Neuroscience | Best Faculty Award

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Dr. said Pournaghash-tehrani | Neuroscience | Best Faculty Award

 

Profile

  • Googlescholar
  • Researchgate

Education

Said Pournaghash-Tehrani earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology in 1993 from The American University in Washington, D.C., where he also completed his Master of Arts in Psychology in 1990. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Distributive Science from the same institution, which he obtained in 1986. Fluent in English and German, he also has familiarity with French. He can be reached via email at spournaghash@yahoo.com or by telephone at 011-98-09122074388.

Work experience
  • Said Pournaghash-Tehrani has extensive academic and research experience in psychology. He served as a Research Associate in 2001 at the Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Loyola University’s Stritch School of Medicine in Chicago, Illinois. In 2002, he took a sabbatical as a researcher at the Department of Psychology, Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada, focusing on cross-cultural studies related to Iranian attitudes towards the West. Since 2002, he has been an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Tehran University, having previously held the same position at Azzahra University in Tehran from 1996 to 2001. Additionally, he was a member of the Scientific Council on Energy and Economic Studies at the Institute for International and Political Studies (IPIS) from 1998 to 2000, where he also worked as a political researcher. His early academic career included serving as a Teaching and Research Assistant at The American University’s Department of Psychology from 1987 to 1990, where he contributed to courses such as Introduction to Psychology, Neuroscience Seminar, Psychopharmacology, Neuropsychology, Biological Basis of Behavior, and Learning and Behavior.

Books

–Fundamentals of Clinical Psychopharmacology, (2007); Samt Publications
-Drugs and Behavior, (2004); Samt Publications.
-Physiological Psychology, Tehran University Publication.
-Intimacy; Alzahra University Publication.
-Theories of Addiction, Alzahra University Publication.

Conference Presentations

Said Pournaghash-Tehrani has contributed extensively to neuroscience and psychology research, presenting his findings at prestigious conferences such as the Society for Neuroscience and the Eastern Psychological Association. His work has focused on drug discrimination learning, conditioned taste aversion, and the effects of opioids and their antagonists. In 1987, he co-authored studies assessing the discriminative stimulus properties of naloxone and the failure of cholecystokinin to counteract morphine sulfate’s effects. His later research explored the antagonism of morphine stimuli, the role of buprenorphine in opiate-naive and dependent animals, and the impact of RO15-4513 on ethanol-induced taste aversion. He has collaborated with notable researchers, including A.L. Riley, contributing to investigations on diazepam exposure and behavioral toxicology. His presentations in New Orleans, Washington, D.C., Boston, and other major research venues highlight his significant role in advancing psychopharmacology and behavioral neuroscience.

Publication

Grit Hein | Social Neuroscience | Best Paper Award

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prof. Grit Hein | Social Neuroscience | Best Paper Award

 

Universität Würzburg, Germany

Profile

Education

She studied Psychology at Humboldt-University in Berlin, Germany, and City College in New York, USA, completing her diploma in 1999 with a grade of “very good.” She earned her doctorate in 2002 at the Max-Planck-Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences in Leipzig and Humboldt-University in Berlin. Her academic and professional career progressed through various prestigious positions. In 2002, she began as a research associate at MRC Cambridge, UK, and the University Hospital Frankfurt/M. She then received a DFG-Research Stipend in 2006, conducting research at the Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of Berkeley, USA. In 2008, she was awarded the Society-in-Science Stipend and became a Principal Investigator in an independent research project at the University of Zürich, Switzerland. She completed her habilitation and obtained her Venia Legendi in Psychology at Goethe-University Frankfurt/M. in 2014. She later served as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Bern, Switzerland, in 2015. In 2017, she was appointed as a Heisenberg Professor at JMU Würzburg, where she continued to advance her research. In 2021, she became a Professor of Translational Social Neuroscience at JMU Würzburg and a Steering Committee Member of the Research Training Group RTG 2660, working alongside Professor Dr. Matthias Gamer in Psychology.

Work experience

Since 2024, she has served as the President of the European Social and Affective Neuroscience Association (ESCAN) – Special Interest Group Social Neuroscience and as the spokesperson for the Neuroscience section at the Graduate School of Life Sciences (GSLS), JMU. Previously, from 2021 to 2024, she held the position of Vice President of ESCAN. Since 2022, she has been a board member of the China-Competence Center at JMU, and since 2021, she has been an Executive Board and Steering Committee Member of the Research Training Group RTG 2660. Her engagement in the research system extends further, as she has been a board member of ESCAN since 2019 and a member of the mentoring program for young female scientists at UKW, JMU. Additionally, she holds a double affiliation with both the Medical Faculty and the Faculty of Human Science at JMU. Since 2018, she has contributed as a panel member of the Hillary Green Research Fund at the University of Birmingham, a standing member of the dissertation committee at UKW, JMU, and a member of the Degree Subject Committee of the Elite Graduate Program in Translational Neuroscience at JMU. She has also supervised numerous early-career researchers, including Anne Saulin, who completed her PhD in 2023 with magna cum laude and is now a DFG postdoctoral fellow at the University of Birmingham, UK; Marthe Gründahl, who also earned her PhD in 2023 with magna cum laude and is now a consultant at Bain & Company; and Dorothee Bruch, who obtained her MD in 2022 with magna cum laude and is currently practicing as a gynecologist.

She has received several prestigious academic distinctions throughout her career. In 2023, she was honored with an award for her extraordinary contribution to teaching by the Medical Faculty and the President of JMU. In 2015, she was awarded the Heisenberg Fellowship by the German Research Foundation, recognizing her outstanding research achievements. Earlier in her career, she received the Branco-Weiss Fellowship from ETH Zürich in 2008 and the Emmy-Noether Fellowship from the German Research Foundation in 2005, both of which supported her innovative research endeavors.

Publication

Emmanuel Kaboja Magna | Cognitive | Cognitive Rehabilitation Impact

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Dr. Emmanuel Kaboja Magna | Cognitive | Cognitive Rehabilitation Impact

CSIR-Water Research Institute, Ghana

Dr. Emmanuel Kaboja Magna is a Research Scientist at the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research-Water Research Institute (CSIR-WRI). He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences (Oceanography and Fisheries) from the University of Ghana in 2007, followed by a Master’s degree in Health Informatics from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana, in 2014. He completed his PhD in Environmental Science in 2020 at the Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies (IESS), University of Ghana. His doctoral research focused on the ecological and human health implications of contaminants linked to cage aquaculture on the Volta Basin of Ghana. He investigated the levels of polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, and heavy metals in water, sediment, and cage tilapia, highlighting the ecological risks and pollution status of sediment, as well as the health risks of consuming such fish. Dr. Magna has also conducted research on solid waste, the impact of climatic variables on crop yield, malaria distribution, and a review of Ghana’s mental health policy. His research has resulted in thirteen publications in reputable international journals. Apart from his work at WRI, he has participated in various research activities focusing on pesticides, antibiotics, PBDEs, and PAHs in different environmental matrices, wastewater quality treatment, and reuse. He is known for his innovation, intellectual acumen, and high research curiosity. Dr. Magna has jointly supervised undergraduate students at several Ghanaian universities and serves as a reviewer for the international journal Food Chemistry Advances. He also has about eight years of teaching experience at the senior high school level.

 

Profile

Education

Dr. Emmanuel Kaboja Magna holds a PhD in Environmental Science from the University of Ghana, which he completed between 2016 and 2020. His doctoral thesis focused on the ecological and human health implications of contaminants linked to cage aquaculture in the Volta Basin of Ghana. He earned a Master’s degree in Health Informatics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 2014, with his thesis exploring the implementation of Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems at Tema General Hospital, addressing the potential benefits and challenges. Dr. Magna obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Oceanography and Fisheries from the University of Ghana in 2007, where he completed his dissertation on the application of GIS to coastal tourism in Ghana. He also completed his SSSCE in General Science at St. Mary’s Seminary Secondary School in 2001. In addition to his academic qualifications, Dr. Magna has earned several professional certificates, including a certificate in System Thinking for Sustainable Development in Ghana from the Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies (IESS), University of Ghana, and North Carolina State, in June 2017. He also completed training on pesticide, PAH, PCB, and antibiotic analysis using LC-MS/MS and GC-MS at the Ghana Standard Authority in Accra from December 2017 to April 2018.

MERITORIOUS AWARDS

Dr. Emmanuel Kaboja Magna has received several meritorious awards and recognitions for his academic and professional achievements. In 2000, he was awarded the Distinguished Award for being the 3rd Year Best Mathematics Student at St. Mary’s Seminary Secondary School in Lolobi, Ghana. He has also been actively involved in outreach and community service. In 2023, he earned a Certificate of Excellence as the 1st Runner-up for a poster presentation at the FDA Scientific Forum, where he presented on the risk assessment of antibiotics in cultured Nile tilapia at Tema Roundabout. Additionally, he served as a panel discussant at the 2023 National Fish Festival on promoting safe fish consumption, as well as at the 2023 National Budget Dialogue on Agro-Based Policy Interventions focusing on Fisheries and Aquaculture. Dr. Magna has contributed to the review of manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals such as Food Chemistry Advances, Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, and Heliyon. His co-supervision of student dissertations includes work on the physicochemical and heavy metals analysis of the Birim River impacted by illegal small-scale mining, completed by Cecelia Asimah at the University for Development Studies in 2023.

Research Project

Dr. Emmanuel Kaboja Magna is currently involved in several research projects, including assessing the impact of environmental change on freshwater species in River Oti, studying algal dynamics in freshwater ecosystems in the Saboba districts, and conducting a comparative analysis of the nutritional composition of different fish species cultured in Ghana, all under the CSIR-WRI, Ghana. His coursework and research modules cover a wide range of topics, including coastal ecology, freshwater ecology, aquatic biology, aquaculture, biodiversity and conservation, fish stock assessment, coastal hydrology, marine biogeochemistry, environmental management, and coastal management, with a particular focus on community aspects. He has also studied advanced quantitative research methods, emerging environmental issues for the 21st century, coastal ecosystems of West Africa, and the applications of remote sensing and GIS to fisheries and marine science. Dr. Magna is affiliated with the Ghana Chemical Society (GCS) since 2017 and was a member of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) from 2009 to 2016. He holds leadership positions as the Deputy Secretary of the CSIR-Research Staff Association of Ghana since November 2023 and was the President of the St. Mary’s Old Boys Association (UG Charter) from September 2006 to May 2007.

Publications