André de Moric | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. André de Moric | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. André de Moric | Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo | Brazil

Dr. André de Moricz, MD, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Surgery and Head of the Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery Group at the Department of Surgery, Santa Casa School of Medical Sciences, São Paulo, Brazil. He holds a medical degree from Fundação do ABC, followed by a Master’s and Doctorate in Surgery from the Santa Casa School of Medical Sciences. Over the course of his extensive academic and clinical career, he has become a leading authority in HPB surgery, complex biliary and pancreatic procedures, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Dr. Moricz’s research portfolio spans translational oncology, gastrointestinal diseases, surgical outcomes, immune microenvironments, and advanced operative strategies. His contributions include high-impact research on tumour-specific immune responses in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, global cancer mutational signatures through the Mutographs consortium, and clinically focused studies on gastric emptying after pancreatoduodenectomy, gallstone disease predictors, surgical management in elderly patients, and technical innovations such as modified hepaticojejunostomy to facilitate endoscopic access. He is the author and co-author of several major surgical textbooks, including comprehensive works on general medicine, minimally invasive abdominal wall and digestive surgery, and cornerstone treatises in Brazilian surgical education. His publications also include numerous book chapters featured in authoritative national and regional surgical references, covering HPB surgery, digestive system diseases, and advanced operative management. His early academic contributions also include the development of an experimental pancreas transplantation training model. Beyond academia, Dr. Moricz collaborates with industry, serving as a consultant for projects related to enzyme reposition therapy in pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, supporting innovation that enhances patient care. Recognized for his leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to surgical excellence, Dr. André de Moricz continues to influence clinical practice, research development, and professional training in HPB surgery both in Brazil and internationally.

Profile; Google Scholar | LinkedIn

Featured Publications:

Kinker, G. S., Vitiello, G. A. F., Diniz, A. B., Cabral-Piccin, M. P., Pereira, P. H. B., Carvalho, M. L. R., Ferreira, W. A. S., Chaves, A. S., Rondinelli, A., Gusmão, A. F., Defelicibus, A., Dos Santos, G. O., Nunes, W. A., Claro, L. C. L., Bernardo, T. M., Nishio, R. T., Pacheco, A. M., Laus, A. C., Arantes, L. M. R. B., & Moricz, A. de, et al. (2023). Mature tertiary lymphoid structures are key niches of tumour-specific immune responses in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. Gut, 72(10), 1927–1941.

Rego, R. E., Campos, T. de, Moricz, A. de, Silva, R. A., & Pacheco Júnior, A. M. (2003). Cholecystectomy in the elderly: Early results of open versus laparoscopic approach. Revista da Associação Médica Brasileira, 49(3), 293–299.

Pereira, F. L., Vasques, F. T., Moricz, A., Campos, T., Pacheco Jr., A. M., & Silva, R. A. (2012). Correlation analysis between post-pancreatoduodenectomy pancreatic fistula and pancreatic histology. Revista do Colégio Brasileiro de Cirurgiões, 39, 41–47.

Rêgo, R. E. C., Campos, T., Moricz, A. de, Silva, R. A., & Pacheco Júnior, A. M. (2003). Tratamento cirúrgico da litíase vesicular no idoso: Análise dos resultados imediatos da colecistectomia por via aberta e videolaparoscópica. Revista da Associação Médica Brasileira, 49, 293–299.

Reverdito, R., Moricz, A., Campos, T., Pacheco, A. M., & Silva, R. A. (2016). Mirizzi syndrome grades III and IV: Surgical treatment. Revista do Colégio Brasileiro de Cirurgiões, 43(4), 243–247.

Flavia Estefanía Amar Cantos | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Mrs. Flavia Estefanía Amar Cantos | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Mrs. Flavia Estefanía Amar Cantos | Universidad de Cádiz | Spain

Flavia Estefanía Amar Cantos is a specialist in Physical Activity, Sport Sciences, and Educational Innovation, with comprehensive training that includes a degree in Sports Sciences, two official master’s degrees in Physical Activity and Health and Teacher Training, and advanced postgraduate studies in Sports Coaching and Injury Rehabilitation. Her academic trajectory is complemented by extensive university teaching experience at the University of Cádiz, where she has taught subjects related to biomechanics, acrobatics, motor skills, educational gymnastics, sports pedagogy, aquatic activities, recreational physical activity, and the development of motor competence across different educational stages. She has also contributed to practicum coordination in teacher-training programs and delivered specialized courses in sports training and individual sports foundations. Her research activity includes authorship of scientific articles, book chapters, and two monographs published by a recognized sports-science editorial, addressing topics such as injury prevention, water sports initiation, emotional intelligence in physical education, educational technology, and interdisciplinary pedagogical approaches. Beyond academia, she has developed significant professional experience as a coach, instructor, and technical director in gymnastics, aquatic disciplines, fitness environments, and school-based extracurricular programs. She has held roles of academic coordination, subject leadership, and instructional design in vocational and advanced sports-training programs, contributing to curriculum implementation in areas such as biomechanics, biological foundations, sports techniques, group dynamics, disability and inclusion, aquatic conditioning, and emergency intervention. Her profile reflects a solid blend of teaching excellence, applied research, professional leadership, and commitment to promoting health, inclusion, and high-quality physical education through evidence-based practice and innovation.

Profile; Orcid 

Featured Publications:

Amar Cantos, F. E. (2025). El juego como medio de enseñanza de los deportes paralímpicos. En Cartografía lúdica: Enseñar, aprender, cuidar y transformar la cultura y la sociedad jugando (ISBN 979-13-7006-273-6).

Amar Cantos, F. E. (2025). El maestro que actúa. Una narrativa a propósito de su homosexualidad. En Caminando hacia la inclusión de las personas LGBTIQA+: Resistencias y alternativas contrahegemónicas (ISBN 979-13-7006-510-2).

Amar Cantos, F. E. (2025). Mi infancia son recuerdos de un patio (de colegio) en Cádiz. Gaditana-Logía.

Amar Cantos, F. E. (2025). Mi infancia son recuerdos de un patio (de colegio) en Cádiz. Gaditana-Logía Comunicación.

Amar Cantos, F. E. (2025). Tecnología, inclusión y educación social: Una narrativa. RiiTE: Revista Interuniversitaria de Investigación en Tecnología Educativa. https://doi.org/10.6018/riite.685041

Amar Cantos, F. E. (2024). An oncology patient’s reading. In F. Amar & V. Amar (Eds.), Advances in Psychology, Mental Health, and Behavioral Studies (pp. xx–xx). IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-4244-2.ch013

Amar, F., Sánchez, B., & Amar, V. (2025). La inteligencia artificial a través de la narrativa: ¿Cuánto hay de inteligencia y cuánto de artificial? Educação e Pesquisa. https://doi.org/10.1590/s1678-4634202551291963es

Roghieh Hajiboland | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Roghieh Hajiboland | Research Excellence | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Roghieh Hajiboland | University of Tabriz | Iran

Prof. Roghieh Hajiboland is a distinguished Full Professor of Plant Physiology in the Department of Plant, Cell and Molecular Biology, renowned for her extensive contributions to mineral nutrition, abiotic stress tolerance, and plant–microbe interactions. She earned her Ph.D. in Plant Physiology from the University of Hohenheim, Germany, and has since developed a globally recognized research portfolio focused on nutrient uptake, transport physiology, heavy metal tolerance, salinity and drought stress adaptation, aluminum toxicity, and silicon- and selenium-mediated stress mitigation in diverse crop and halophytic species. With an active research career spanning more than a decade, Prof. Hajiboland has produced a substantial body of high-impact scientific work, including 60+ international journal articles, influential compilation books with Springer, Elsevier, Wiley, and Shayesteh Publishers, and numerous national publications and conference presentations. Her studies have advanced fundamental understanding of mineral element functions, nutrient remobilization, antioxidant responses, water relations, and physiological/biochemical mechanisms underlying stress resilience in plants. She is widely recognized for pioneering research on tea plant physiology, halophyte species, intercropping systems, and the roles of aluminum, selenium, and silicon in plant stress biology. Prof. Hajiboland teaches a broad range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral-level courses, including Plant Physiology, Plant Growth and Development, Mineral Nutrition, Uptake and Transport in Plants, Transport Physiology, Evolutionary Biology, and Plant–Microbe Interactions. Her academic leadership includes supervising graduate research, mentoring young scientists, and contributing actively to departmental and institutional development. Her scholarly visibility is supported through Google Scholar, Scopus, and ResearchGate profiles, reflecting strong citation influence and international collaboration, particularly with leading researchers in Europe. Through her sustained research, teaching, and publication record, Prof. Hajiboland continues to shape contemporary understanding of plant stress physiology and sustainable crop improvement under challenging environmental conditions.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Moradtalab, N., Hajiboland, R., Aliasgharzad, N., Hartmann, T. E., & Neumann, G. (2019). Silicon and the association with an arbuscular-mycorrhizal fungus (Rhizophagus clarus) mitigate the adverse effects of drought stress on strawberry. Agronomy, 9(1), 41. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9010041

Rahmat, S., Hajiboland, R., & Sadeghzade, N. (2017). Selenium delays leaf senescence in oilseed rape plants. Photosynthetica, 55(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11099-016-0643-6

Hajiboland, R., Bahrami-Rad, S., & Poschenrieder, C. (2017). Silicon modifies both a local response and a systemic response to mechanical stress in tobacco leaves. Biologia Plantarum, 61(1), 123–131. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10535-016-0633-3

Ebrahimi, N., Hartikainen, H., Simojoki, A., Hajiboland, R., & Seppänen, M. (2015). Dynamics of dry matter and selenium accumulation in oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) in response to organic and inorganic selenium treatments. Agricultural and Food Science, 24(3), 219–230.*

Hajiboland, R., Sadeghzadeh, N., Ebrahimi, N., Sadeghzadeh, B., & Mohammadi, S. A. (2015). Influence of selenium in drought-stressed wheat plants under greenhouse and field conditions. Acta Agriculturae Slovenica, 105(2), 213–225. https://doi.org/10.14720/aas.2015.105.2.01

Hajiboland, R., Bastani, S., Bahrami-Rad, S., & Poschenrieder, C. (2015). Interactions between aluminum and boron in tea (Camellia sinensis) plants. Acta Physiologiae Plantarum, 37(12), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11738-015-1803-1

Hassan Aljaberi | Research Excellence | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Hassan Aljaberi | Research Excellence | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Hassan Aljaberi | Optical Techniques Department, College of Health and Medical Techniques | Iraq

Hasan Abdulhadi Al-Jabri, 38, is an Assistant Lecturer specializing in Optical Techniques at the Department of Optical Techniques, Al-Mustaqbal University, Babylon, Iraq. With a strong academic foundation, including a BSc in Optical Techniques and an MSc in Engineering, he has built an active career in both teaching and research. His academic work is reflected in 12 published documents, 35 citing documents, and an h-index of 4, demonstrating a growing impact within the fields of optometry, biosensing, and optical materials. In his academic role, Al-Jabri teaches key courses in optical techniques and supervises undergraduate graduation projects, contributing to the development of future professionals in optical sciences. His research portfolio spans critical areas such as corneal physiology, refractive error assessment, biosensing materials, and photocatalytic nanocomposites. His notable publications include investigations into the effects of soft contact lenses on corneal endothelial cells, advancements in porphyrin-MOF-based biosensing of chemical contaminants, and a comprehensive meta-analysis on refractive errors among Iraqi school students. He has also explored advanced functional materials, such as Pt-decorated tetragonal graphene for anticancer drug detection and S-Scheme nanocomposite photocatalysts for efficient degradation of organic pollutants under visible light. Beyond research papers, Al-Jabri has contributed scientific articles, including a 2025 review on modern keratoconus treatment approaches. He has also demonstrated active scientific engagement through participation in the Arab Health Exhibition 2024 in Dubai, gaining exposure to cutting-edge diagnostic technologies in ophthalmology. His skills encompass scientific writing, operation of optical and diagnostic devices, and data analysis. His research interests include the impact of contact lenses on corneal health, biosensing technologies, and refractive error epidemiology. Through teaching, research, and scientific participation, Hasan Abdulhadi Al-Jabri continues to advance optical science and contribute valuable insights to both academic and clinical communities.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar | Research Gate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

Elzahra, Z. A., Aljaberi, H. A., Al-Robayi, E. M., & Amer, S. (2025). Investigation of optoelectronic properties using single-molecule laser active media. Opto-Electronics Review. https://doi.org/10.24425/OPELRE.2025.155865

Yaqoubi, M., Ghanbari, M., Maya, R. W., Jasim, H. A., & Salavati-Niasari, M. (2025). Synthesis and characterization of S-Scheme NiMn₂O₄/g-C₃N₄ nanocomposites heterojunction photocatalyst for effective degradation of organic pollutants under visible light. Results in Engineering, Article 104037. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rineng.2025.104037

Rusho, M. A., Ahmed, A. T., Kanjariya, P., Ballal, S., Singh, A., Supriya, S., Ray, S., Sultan, M. K., Jasim, H. A., & Alkahtani, H. M. (2025). Unveiling a new type of boron-doped carbon sheets as an anode for calcium-ion batteries. Ionics. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11581-025-06423-w

Flayyih, R. A., Alwan, K. J., & Aljaberi, H. A. (2025, December). Comparative heat transfer analysis of helical coil and straight tube heat exchangers. Case Studies in Thermal Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.csite.2025.107386

Aljaberi, H. A., Rahmani, S., & Muhammad, G. A. (2025, October). Effect of soft contact lens wear on corneal endothelial cell characteristics. Contact Lens and Anterior Eye. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clae.2025.102441

Kenju Otsuka | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kenju Otsuka | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kenju Otsuka | TS3L Research | Japan

The nomination highlights an accomplished researcher whose work spans laser physics, quantum electronics, self-mixing laser metrology, and nonlinear optical dynamics. Their academic background reflects decades of contributions to the development of advanced solid-state laser systems and the fundamental understanding of dynamic behavior in optical environments. The researcher has completed significant investigations, including the invention of stoichiometric laser crystals enabling highly efficient microchip lasers, as well as pioneering methods for controlling transverse laser modes through pump-beam modulation. Their studies on nonlinear dynamics—such as antiphase behavior, clustering phenomena, and chaotic itinerancy—have shaped theoretical and experimental approaches in optical complex systems. Current research focuses on advancing self-mixing metrology using thin-slice solid-state lasers with ultra-high sensitivity for measuring non-cooperative objects. This includes groundbreaking progress on laser-diode-pumped ruby lasers designed for extreme-precision sensing applications. The researcher has led several major projects in this domain, including development of thin-slice Cr:Al₂O₃ lasers aimed at pushing the limits of metrological sensitivity. Their scholarly output is extensive, with thousands of citations, numerous indexed journal publications, authored book chapters, and a monograph on nonlinear optical dynamics. They also hold multiple patents related to laser technologies, reflecting a strong innovation portfolio. The researcher has maintained active collaborations with leading scientists and institutions, contributing significantly to the global optics and photonics community. In addition to research achievements, they have served in editorial roles and hold prestigious fellowships in internationally recognized scientific societies, acknowledging their influence in laser science, photonic device engineering, and nonlinear dynamics. Their contributions to self-mixing laser metrology, laser mode manipulation, and the exploration of complex optical behaviors continue to advance precision measurement and optical system design.

Profiles:  Orcid | Google Scholar | LinkedIn | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2025). Harmonics-assisted 50-fold optical phase amplification with a self-mixing thin-slice Nd:GdVO₄ laser with wide-aperture laser-diode pumping. Photonics, 12(11), Article 1098. https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12111098

Sudo, S., & Otsuka, K. (2025). Evaluation of thermal expansion of elastomer using self-mixing vibrometry with thin-slice solid laser. Journal of Applied Physics, 138(4), Article 0281888. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0281888

Sudo, S., & Otsuka, K. (2024). Self-mixing thinly sliced ruby laser for laser Doppler velocimetry with high optical sensitivity. Optics Continuum, 3(11), Article 532807. https://doi.org/10.1364/OPTCON.532807

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2023). Spiking ruby revisited: Self-induced periodic spiking oscillations leading to chaotic state in a Cr:Al₂O₃ laser with cw 532-nm pumping. Optics Continuum, 2(9), Article 497640. https://doi.org/10.1364/OPTCON.497640

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2023). Erratum: Nonlinear dynamics of a self-mixing thin-slice solid-state laser subjected to Doppler-shifted optical feedback [Phys. Rev. E, 104, 044203 (2021)]. Physical Review E, 108(3), 039901. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.108.039901

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2022). Self-mixing interference in a thin-slice solid-state laser with few feedback photons per observation period. Physical Review A, 106(5), 053504. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.106.053504

Sharon Youmans | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sharon Youmans | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sharon Youmans | University of California San Francisco School of Pharmacy | United States 

Dr. Sharon Lynn Youmans is a distinguished leader in pharmacy education, health literacy, and diversity advancement within academic health sciences. With a Doctor of Pharmacy and a Master’s in Public Health, she has built an influential career integrating clinical pharmacy practice, education, and leadership. Over the past three decades, she has held progressive academic and administrative positions at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Pharmacy, where she currently serves as Executive Vice Dean and Professor of Clinical Pharmacy. Her leadership extends to the UCSF School of Dentistry as Associate Dean for Community Engagement, demonstrating her broad impact on interprofessional collaboration and community health outreach. Her scholarly and service contributions focus on health communication, health disparities, diversity, equity, inclusion, and global health. Dr. Youmans has played an instrumental role in shaping pharmacy education through curriculum transformation, experiential learning innovations, and national leadership in accreditation and professional organizations such as AACP, ACPE, and ASHP. She has served as an evaluator and consultant on pharmacy education programs worldwide, contributing to global standards in health science education. An accomplished educator, she has been recognized with numerous awards, including multiple UCSF Apple Awards for Teaching, the UCSF Chancellor’s Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Award, and induction into the Haile T. Debas Academy of Medical Educators. Her leadership in promoting diversity and addressing health disparities has earned national recognition from professional pharmacy associations. Through her extensive invited lectures and scholarly activities, Dr. Youmans has advanced dialogue on cultural competence, health equity, curriculum reform, and workforce development in pharmacy. Her ongoing work continues to inspire innovation in pharmacy education, advocate for equitable healthcare delivery, and strengthen academic excellence and community impact across the health professions.

Profiles: Google Scholar | LinkedIn 

Featured Publications 

Schillinger, D., Hammer, H., Wang, F., Palacios, J., McLean, I., Tang, A., & Youmans, S. L. (2008). Seeing in 3-D: Examining the reach of diabetes self-management support strategies in a public health care system. Health Education & Behavior, 35(5), 664–682. https://doi.org/10.1177/1090198107303316

Youmans, S. L., & Schillinger, D. (2003). Functional health literacy and medication use: The pharmacist’s role. Annals of Pharmacotherapy, 37(11), 1726–1729. https://doi.org/10.1345/aph.1D166

Robles, J. R., Youmans, S. L., Byrd, D. C., & Polk, R. E. (2009). Perceived barriers to scholarship and research among pharmacy practice faculty: Survey report from the AACP Scholarship/Research Faculty Development Task Force. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 73(1), Article 17. https://doi.org/10.5688/aj730117

Nkansah, N. T., Youmans, S. L., Agness, C. F., & Assemi, M. (2009). Fostering and managing diversity in schools of pharmacy. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 73(8), Article 152. https://doi.org/10.5688/aj7308152

Mandap, M., Carrillo, S., & Youmans, S. L. (2014). An evaluation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) health education in pharmacy school curricula. Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning, 6(6), 752–758. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cptl.2014.06.011

Bautista, C. A., Huang, I., Stebbins, M., Floren, L. C., Wamsley, M., Youmans, S. L., & others. (2020). Development of an interprofessional rotation for pharmacy and medical students to perform telehealth outreach to vulnerable patients in the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Interprofessional Care, 34(5), 694–697. https://doi.org/10.1080/13561820.2020.1810253

Ivis Garcia | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ivis Garcia | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ivis Garcia | Texas A&M University | United States

Dr. Ivis García, Ph.D., AICP, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning at Texas A&M University, with a distinguished record of scholarship, teaching, and community engagement in housing, urban policy, and social equity. Her research is grounded in the principles of community development, participatory planning, and social justice, with a particular emphasis on advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within urban systems. Dr. García’s work focuses on asset-based community development (ABCD) approaches that empower marginalized populations to build capacity and resilience through locally driven solutions. She explores the intersections of housing policy, disaster recovery, gentrification, and displacement, particularly within Latino and Puerto Rican communities in the United States and the Caribbean. Her doctoral dissertation, “The Puerto Rican Identity: Reconstructing Ownership in the Face of Change,” set the foundation for a research agenda that bridges cultural identity with community-based planning and equitable housing strategies. Through her collaborations with organizations such as the Puerto Rican Cultural Center, Texas Appleseed, and Foundation for Puerto Rico, Dr. García integrates academic research with real-world impact, informing equitable policy design and participatory decision-making. She has been a Ford Foundation Fellow, Emerging Poverty Scholar, and recipient of numerous professional awards, including theTexas APA Student Project Award and the  Curriculum Innovation Award from the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy. Her research has contributed to national dialogues on resilient housing, participatory governance, and social vulnerability in urban environments, often linking theory to applied planning practice. By engaging communities directly in the research process, Dr. García exemplifies the model of a scholar-activist—translating knowledge into meaningful action that promotes inclusive, just, and sustainable urban futures. Her work continues to inspire transformative practices in housing equity and community resilience across diverse urban landscapes.

Profiles: Orcid

Featured Publications 

García, I. (2025). Earthship architecture as a pathway to post-hurricane resilience and energy independence: A case study analysis in Puerto Rico. Urban Science, 9(11), 446. https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci9110446

Kim, M., García, I., Goetz, E., Hanlon, B., Monkkonen, P., Pendall, R., Pfeiffer, D., Reece, J., & Whittemore, A. (2025). Bring zoning back into the planning curricula. Journal of the American Planning Association. https://doi.org/10.1080/01944363.2025.2455162

García, I. (2025). Residential green infrastructure: Unpacking motivations and obstacles to single-family-home tree planting in diverse, low-income urban neighborhoods. Sustainability, 17(16), 7412. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167412

García, I. (2025). When the map does not tell the whole story: Integrating community voices into GIS gentrification analysis. Land, 14(8), 1510. https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081510

García, I., Jackson, A., Lee, C. A., Chrisinger, B., & Greenlee, A. J. (2025). On the outside looking in: Latina/o/x and African American student perspectives on community-engaged courses. Journal of Planning Education and Research. https://doi.org/10.1177/0739456X251339979

García, I. (2025). The poorer the neighborhood, the harder it is to reach the park: A GIS equity analysis from Salt Lake City. Sustainability, 17(9), 3774. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093774

Hector Galindo-Silva | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hector Galindo-Silva | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hector Galindo-Silva | Pontificia Universidad Javeriana | Colombia

Dr. Héctor Galindo-Silva is a distinguished scholar in economics whose research bridges political economy, institutional development, and conflict analysis. He completed his doctoral studies in Economics at Université de Montréal, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Universitat Pompeu Fabra’s Institute of Political Economy and Governance (IPEG). His academic journey reflects a deep interdisciplinary foundation, combining expertise in economics, philosophy, and the social sciences. Currently serving as an Associate Professor of Economics at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, he has previously taught at Université de Montréal and held teaching appointments in both economics and philosophy. His teaching portfolio includes courses on political economy, microeconomics, conflict economics, and the economic analysis of social interactions. Dr. Galindo-Silva’s research explores the intersection of political institutions, conflict dynamics, religion, and economic outcomes. His publications have appeared in leading international journals such as the Journal of Public Economics, Economics & Politics, European Journal of Political Economy, Journal of Comparative Economics, Journal of Population Economics, and Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization. His recent work addresses themes such as ideological ambiguity, religious competition, education and gender norm transformation, and the political impact of climate change. In addition to his scholarly output, he has contributed to major research collaborations using big data and network theory, and his studies often integrate empirical and theoretical approaches to understand social and political processes. He serves as Associate Editor of Humanities and Social Sciences Communications and regularly reviews for high-impact journals in economics and political science. Throughout his career, Dr. Galindo-Silva has presented his research at numerous international conferences and academic institutions across Europe and the Americas, earning recognition for his analytical depth and interdisciplinary engagement in contemporary political economy.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications 

Galindo, H., Restrepo, J., & Sánchez, F. (2009). Conflicto y pobreza en Colombia: Un enfoque institucionalista. In Guerra y violencias en Colombia: Herramientas e interpretaciones (pp. 315–351). Universidad Javeriana.

Galindo-Silva, H. (2015). New parties and policy outcomes: Evidence from Colombian local governments. Journal of Public Economics, 126, 86–103. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpubeco.2015.04.004

Galindo-Silva, H., Some, N. H., & Tchuente, G. (2018). Fuzzy difference-in-discontinuities: Identification theory and application to the Affordable Care Act. arXiv preprint arXiv:1812.06537.

Galindo-Silva, H. (2021). Political openness and armed conflict: Evidence from local councils in Colombia. European Journal of Political Economy, 67, 101984. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejpoleco.2020.101984

Galindo-Silva, H., & Tchuente, G. (2023). Armed conflict and early human capital accumulation: Evidence from Cameroon’s Anglophone conflict. arXiv preprint arXiv:2306.13070.

Mikhail Samchukov | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mikhail Samchukov | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mikhail Samchukov | Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children | Argentina

Dr. Mikhail L. Samchukov is an internationally renowned orthopedic surgeon recognized for his pioneering work in limb lengthening, deformity correction, and reconstructive surgery. A senior consultant and researcher with decades of experience, he has played a transformative role in advancing Ilizarov techniques, distraction osteogenesis, and the development of modern external fixation systems. Dr. Samchukov’s distinguished career bridges clinical innovation and biomedical engineering, focusing on precision alignment correction, bone regeneration, and patient-specific orthopedic solutions. He has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and monographs, and his research has influenced surgical practices and medical device development globally. As a recognized expert and mentor, Dr. Samchukov has led numerous clinical education programs, trained surgeons worldwide, and contributed to the integration of digital technologies into orthopedic modeling and treatment planning. His collaborations span premier medical institutions across North America, Europe, and Asia, strengthening the global network of orthopedic innovation. A frequent invited speaker at leading international congresses and symposiums, he continues to shape the future of reconstructive orthopedics through research leadership, mentorship, and clinical excellence. His career reflects a lifelong dedication to improving patient outcomes through science-driven surgical advancement.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Golshteyn, G., Oji, E., & Samchukov, M. (2025). Clinical guidelines for the application of tibial cortex transverse transport for diabetic foot ulcers. Foot & Ankle Surgery: Techniques, Reports & Cases, 100535. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fastrc.2025.100535

Feraru, L. M., & Samchukov, M. (2025). Limb salvage with transverse tibial bone transport in a high-risk patient with a chronic Achilles tendon ulcer: A case report. Foot & Ankle Surgery: Techniques, Reports & Cases, 100575. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fastrc.2025.100575

Stone, R., Samchukov, M., & Hutchison, B. (2025). Transverse tibial bone transport for treatment of calcaneal osteomyelitis: A case report. Foot & Ankle Surgery: Techniques, Reports & Cases, 100537. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fastrc.2025.100537

Bafor, A., Iobst, C., Samchukov, M., Cherkashin, A., Singh, S., Aguilar, L., & Glatt, V. (2023, December 20). Reverse dynamization accelerates regenerate bone formation and remodeling in a goat distraction osteogenesis model. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.22.01342

Glatt, V., Samchukov, M., Cherkashin, A., & Iobst, C. (2021, February 3). Reverse dynamization accelerates bone healing in a large-animal osteotomy model. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.20.00380

Ernat, J. J., Wimberly, L., Samchukov, M. L., Cherkaskin, A. M., & Birch, J. G. (2019). Staged reconstruction for type IV tibial deficiency (distal tibiofibular diastasis). JBJS Case Connector. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.CC.19.00088

Wallace, S. B., Cherkashin, A., Samchukov, M., Wimberly, R. L., & Riccio, A. I. (2019, July 3). Real-time monitoring with a controlled advancement drill may decrease plunge depth. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.19.00111

Walter Schumm | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Walter Schumm | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Walter Schumm | Kansas State University | United States

Dr. Walter R. Schumm, Emeritus Professor of Applied Family Science at Kansas State University, is a distinguished scholar whose academic and professional journey spans over four decades of teaching, research, and service. With a Ph.D. in Family Studies from Purdue University and a strong foundation in research methods and statistics, Dr. Schumm has made significant contributions to the fields of family science, human sexuality, social research integrity, and military leadership studies. Throughout his tenure at Kansas State University, he taught a wide range of courses in family theory, research methodology, and marriage education, while mentoring numerous master’s and doctoral students. Beyond academia, Dr. Schumm’s career reflects a remarkable blend of scholarship and service, having held multiple leadership positions in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve, where he earned commendations for excellence in logistics, mobilization planning, and unit command. His research portfolio includes influential works on same-sex parenting, research ethics, and statistical integrity in social science, with publications in journals such as Accountability in Research, The Linacre Quarterly, and The Journal of Human Sexuality. A Fellow of the National Council on Family Relations and recipient of multiple awards—including the President’s Award from the Alliance for Therapeutic Choice and Scientific Integrity—Dr. Schumm continues to be recognized for his analytical rigor, ethical insight, and contributions to both social science and public service.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Schumm, W. R., Bloomstrom, G., Theodore, V. P., & Roy, R. N. (2025). Reliability and validation of US Army-oriented brief work-to-family and family-to-work conflict scales: An email sample of 262 Army career officers. Social Sciences.

Schumm, W. R., Brady, A. C., Solis, D., Cerny, J., Mann, M., & Francis, M., et al. (2023). Daily response of vital signs to COVID-19 infection: A case study of an unvaccinated 70-year-old male with type II diabetes treated with monoclonal antibodies and selected supplements. American Journal of Biomedical Science & Research, 19(4), 428.

Schumm, W. R. (2023). A further examination of excesses or deficits of terminal zeroes in scientific research: Using binomial testing to assess probabilities for different anomaly classifications as evidence of data fabrication or falsification. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research, 52(4), 43992–43995.

Schumm, W. R. (2022). A re-analysis of data from Sullins, Rosik, and Santero (2021): Are sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE) helpful for those who don’t change? F1000Research, 11, [version 1; peer review: awaiting publication].

Schumm, W. R., & Rosik, C. H. (2022). A critical review of the 2021 APA [American Psychological Association] resolution on sexual orientation change efforts. Noble International Journal of Social Sciences Research, 7(2), 40–51.