Takeshi Nikawa | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Takeshi Nikawa | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Tokushima University Graduate School | Japan

Prof. Dr. Takeshi Nikawa is a distinguished researcher at Tokushima University, Japan, with expertise in skeletal muscle physiology, molecular biology, and nutritional interventions. His research explores the mechanisms underlying muscle atrophy, mitochondrial function, and gene regulation during myogenesis, aiming to understand how these processes impact aging, metabolism, and overall health. Nikawa’s work integrates experimental studies with translational approaches to develop strategies for maintaining muscle mass and function, particularly in aging populations or individuals at risk of muscle degeneration. He actively collaborates with international scientists across multiple disciplines, fostering knowledge exchange and advancing global research initiatives. Through his publications and applied studies, Nikawa contributes to both fundamental scientific understanding and practical interventions, supporting the development of therapeutic, nutritional, and lifestyle strategies that enhance quality of life and address key societal challenges related to health and aging.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

4787
3500

2500
1200

0

Citations

4,787

Documents

157

h-index

39

Citations

Documents

h-index

View Scopus Profile

Featured Publications

Sarbajit Paul Bappy | Computer Science | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Sarbajit Paul Bappy | Computer Science | Research Excellence Award

Teaching Assistant | Daffodil International University | Bangladesh

Sarbajit Paul Bappy is an emerging researcher in computer science with a growing focus on applied machine learning, medical image analysis, and agricultural informatics. He is currently serving as a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Daffodil International University, Bangladesh, where he has been contributing to academic instruction and research support since 2025. Alongside his professional role, he is pursuing his undergraduate degree in Computer Science and Engineering at the same institution, demonstrating a strong integration of academic excellence and early-career research productivity. His scholarly work includes peer-reviewed publications and openly accessible datasets that address critical challenges in healthcare diagnostics and smart agriculture. Notably, he co-authored SkinVisualNet: A Hybrid Deep Learning Approach Leveraging Explainable Models for Identifying Lyme Disease from Skin Rash Images (MAKE, 2025), which combines deep learning with explainable AI techniques to enhance early disease detection. He also contributed significantly to the dataset Jackfruit AgroVision, a comprehensive benchmark for disease detection in jackfruit and its leaves, supporting advancements in precision agriculture and food-security research. His collaborations span multidisciplinary teams involving experts such as Amir Sohel, Rittik Chandra Das Turjy, Md Assaduzzaman, Ahmed Al Marouf, Jon George Rokne, and Reda Alhajj, illustrating his ability to contribute within diverse international research groups. Through his ongoing work in AI-driven health diagnostics, dataset development, and sustainable agricultural technology, Bappy aims to advance research that supports societal well-being, improves disease detection accuracy, and contributes to innovation within global machine learning communities.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Sohel, A., Turjy, R. C. D., Bappy, S. P., Assaduzzaman, M., Marouf, A. A., Rokne, J. G., & Alhajj, R. (2025). SkinVisualNet: A Hybrid Deep Learning Approach Leveraging Explainable Models for Identifying Lyme Disease from Skin Rash Images. Machine Learning and Knowledge Extraction, 7(4), 157. https://doi.org/10.3390/make7040157  MDPI+1

2. Sohel, A., Bijoy, M. H. I., Turjy, R. C. D., & Bappy, S. P. (2025). Jackfruit AgroVision: A Extensive Dataset for Jackfruit Disease and Leaf Disease Detection using Machine Learning. Mendeley Data. https://doi.org/10.17632/pt647jfn52.1

Jiawei Shi | curriculum teaching | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Jiawei Shi | curriculum teaching | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer | Zhoukou Normal University | China

Mrs. Jiawei Shi is a Senior Lecturer and Research Scholar at Zhoukou Normal University and HUANGHE S&T University, specializing in the intersection of art education, digital pedagogy, and educational equity. His research focuses on addressing structural challenges in China’s basic art education—particularly teacher shortages, disparities in resource allocation, and uneven regional development—through evidence-based digital innovation. As the sole author of the high-impact empirical study “Digital applications inject new vitality into art education—Path analysis based on data of art teachers in basic education in China,” Shi has contributed a rigorous and multidimensional analytical framework that integrates literature review, policy analysis, national education statistics, survey research, Delphi method, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and the CIPP evaluation model. His work constructs a weighted evaluation index system (Y=0.35X1+0.15X2+0.22X3+0.28X4) and provides robust empirical evidence demonstrating the significant effectiveness of digital applications in enhancing teaching environments, resource distribution, and instructional outcomes in art education. The study’s findings—such as the expert authority coefficient Cr=0.632 and comparative evaluation results between digital demonstration schools and traditional schools—offer both scholarly insight and practical policy value. Shi has authored multiple academic publications and collaborated with interdisciplinary teams and provincial research initiatives, including the 2024 Henan Xingwenhua Cultural Engineering Project (No. 2024XWH241). His research has attracted growing academic attention and citation within the fields of digital education reform and art education modernization. Beyond theoretical contributions, Shi’s work supports national and regional decision-making by proposing actionable strategies for optimizing teacher training, funding mechanisms, and digital resource integration. Committed to advancing educational modernization, he continues to pursue research that promotes equity, innovation, and high-quality development in China’s basic education system, ensuring that digital transformation contributes meaningfully to cultural transmission, artistic literacy, and social progress.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Shi, J. (n.d.). Digital applications inject new vitality into art education: Path analysis based on data of art teachers in basic education in China.

Jiawei Shi’s research advances the digital transformation of art education by providing a scientifically validated framework that supports equitable resource distribution and improved instructional quality across China’s basic education system. His work guides policymakers, educators, and institutions in adopting evidence-based digital strategies that enhance cultural literacy, modernize teaching practices, and promote inclusive, high-quality education with broad societal impact.

Margarida Romero | Education | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Margarida Romero | Education | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Université Côte d’Azur | France

Prof. Dr. Margarida Romero is a distinguished full professor at Université Côte d’Azur, France, where she leads the Learning, Innovation and Education (LINE) research lab. With a strong academic foundation, she holds a European Ph.D. in Psychology of Education jointly awarded by the University of Toulouse Le Mirail and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, where she earned the Extraordinary Doctorate Award for her outstanding thesis. Her academic journey also includes master’s degrees in Educational Psychology and Pedagogical Engineering, reflecting her deep commitment to advancing educational sciences. Professionally, she has held prestigious positions, including tenured professorship at Université Laval in Canada and vice-dean of research at Université Côte d’Azur, contributing significantly to the internationalization of educational technology research. Her research interests lie in technology-enhanced learning, creativity in digital education, co-creativity, and the pedagogical integration of serious games, where she has led multiple high-impact projects such as ANR CreaMaker and FP7 Euro-CAT-CSCL. Prof. Romero possesses extensive research and teaching expertise across undergraduate to doctoral levels, having supervised numerous Ph.D. and postdoctoral researchers and organized key international conferences and workshops promoting innovation in digital education. Her exceptional scholarly productivity includes over 35 journal articles, 6 books, and 35 chapters, accumulating more than 6,000 citations and an h-index above 30, signifying her influential academic impact. She has received numerous honors, including the Université d’Été Ludovia Research Award, the Academy of Management MED Barry Armandi Award, and recognition from international institutions for her pioneering contributions to educational innovation. A prolific scholar and leader, Prof. Romero’s work bridges creativity, technology, and pedagogy, making her a prominent figure in shaping 21st-century learning practices. Her dedication to advancing co-creativity, educational innovation, and digital pedagogy continues to inspire global collaborations and drive transformative research in technology-enhanced education.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

  1. Monereo, C., & Romero, M. (2008). Los entornos virtuales de aprendizaje basados en sistemas de emulación cognitiva. In C. Monereo (Ed.), Psicología de la educación virtual. Aprender y enseñar con las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación. [Chapter]. Cited by: 1,532

  2. Capdeferro, N., & Romero, M. (2012). Are online learners frustrated with collaborative learning experiences? The International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 13(2), 26–44. Cited by: 500

  3. Romero, M., Usart, M., & Ott, M. (2015). Can Serious Games contribute to developing and sustaining 21st century skills? Games and Culture, 10(2), 148–177. https://doi.org/10.1177/1555412014557546 Cited by: 443

  4. Panadero, E., & Romero, M. (2014). To rubric or not to rubric? The effects of self-assessment on self-regulation, performance, and self-efficacy. Assessment in Education: Principles, Policy & Practice, 21(2), 133–148. https://doi.org/10.1080/0969594X.2013.877872 Cited by: 417

  5. Romero, M., Lepage, A., & Lille, B. (2017). Computational thinking development through creative programming in higher education. International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 14(1), 42. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-017-0080-z Cited by: 361

Luminita Nicolescu | Innovation and knowledge | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Luminita Nicolescu | Innovation and knowledge | Best Researcher Award

Professor PhD Faculty of International Business and Economics at Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania

Dr. Luminiţa Nicolescu is a distinguished academic and researcher with a robust background in international business, economics, and higher education management. 📚 She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Kent, UK, and has led a prolific academic career at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, advancing from assistant to full professor and doctoral coordinator. 🌍 Her contributions span over 20 major national and international research projects, focusing on educational reform, international marketing, SME development, and public policy. 🧠 Dr. Nicolescu has also represented Romania in the Bologna Process and served on various academic and scientific councils. Her work has significantly influenced higher education policy and international economic relations. 🏛️ While her research leadership is exceptional, more peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals could further elevate her profile. Overall, her visionary research, academic leadership, and policy engagement make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓  

Dr. Luminiţa Nicolescu has an impressive and diverse educational background that reflects her commitment to academic excellence and global perspective. 🎓 She began her studies at the Economic High School No. 1 in Bucharest, Romania, followed by a degree in the Faculty of Economy of Industry, Constructions, and Transportation at the Academy of Economic Studies. 📘 She then pursued advanced international studies, earning a Master of Arts by Research in Management and a Ph.D. in Management from Canterbury Business School, University of Kent, United Kingdom. 🇬🇧 To further deepen her leadership in academia, she completed an MBA in the Management of Higher Education at the Institute of Education, University of London. 🏫 Dr. Nicolescu has also enriched her academic training through prestigious programs and summer schools in Austria, Canada, Hungary, the U.S., Japan, and the UK, covering subjects like international marketing, comparative economics, and educational policy. 🌐📖 Her education uniquely blends economic theory, international experience, and educational leadership.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Luminiţa Nicolescu boasts a distinguished professional journey spanning over three decades in higher education and international collaboration. 👩‍🏫 Since 1990, she has served in various academic roles at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, advancing from junior assistant to full professor in International Business and Economics. She is also a Doctoral Coordinator and Director of the Master’s Program in International Management and Marketing. 🎓 As an academic leader, she has contributed to faculty and departmental councils and research centers, playing a key role in shaping educational policy and research direction. 🏛️ From 2010 to 2017, she represented Romania in the Bologna Follow-Up Group (BFUG), promoting European higher education on a global stage. 🌍 She also serves on national academic commissions under the Ministry of Education. Her work bridges education, policy, and research with a strong international perspective, making her a highly respected figure in academia and public service.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Luminiţa Nicolescu’s research interests span a dynamic intersection of international business, higher education policy, and economic development. 🌍📊 She has led and contributed to numerous national and international projects focusing on topics such as the globalization of education, organizational culture transformation, international marketing, and the impact of European integration on economic performance. 📚🏛️ Her work frequently addresses the strategic management of higher education institutions, with a particular emphasis on quality assurance, innovation, and the role of private education in shaping labor markets. As both a principal investigator and collaborator, she has participated in EU-funded initiatives, UNESCO research, and partnerships with global organizations such as UNCTAD/WTO and the Open Society Institute. 🤝🌐 Dr. Nicolescu’s research is marked by its practical policy implications and interdisciplinary scope, influencing both academia and government strategies across Europe. Her scholarly contributions continue to drive forward-thinking dialogue in economics and education.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Luminiţa Nicolescu has been recognized with numerous awards and honors that celebrate her outstanding academic and professional contributions. 🏆🎓 As a respected figure in international business and higher education, she has earned prestigious fellowships such as the International Policy Fellowship from the Open Society Institute in Budapest, Hungary. 🌍📜 Her role as Romania’s representative in the Bologna Follow-Up Group (BFUG) for both the International Openness and International Cooperation groups highlights her influence on European higher education reform. 🇷🇴🇪🇺 She has also served on the CNATDCU Commission for Economic Sciences and Business Administration, appointed by Romania’s Ministry of Education – a testament to her national impact. 🏛️📘 Her recognition stems not only from her academic excellence but also from her leadership in numerous international research initiatives, contributing valuable insights into policy and institutional development. 🌐📖 These honors affirm her as a leading voice in economic and educational innovation.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Luminiţa Nicolescu possesses exceptional research skills that span across international business, educational policy, and economic development. 🔍📊 Her ability to lead, design, and execute complex research projects is evident in her directorship and coordination of over 20 national and international research initiatives. 🌍🧠 From analyzing higher education reforms to developing methodologies for SME innovation strategies, her work integrates policy, academia, and practice. 🏫📈 She excels in qualitative and quantitative research, case study analysis, and cross-country comparative studies, particularly in the context of post-communist and European integration frameworks. 📚⚖️ Dr. Nicolescu’s research also demonstrates strong capabilities in strategic project management, data interpretation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, making her a valuable contributor to both academic and governmental research agendas. 🤝💼 Her findings have informed national education policies and enhanced institutional competitiveness, reflecting a rare blend of academic rigor and real-world application. 🧩💡 Such research expertise cements her reputation as a global thought leader.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • 📘 Applying Marketing to Higher Education: Scope and Limits

    • Authors: L. Nicolescu

    • Year: 2009

    • Citations: 269

    • Summary: This pioneering study explores the role of marketing in higher education, analyzing its benefits and boundaries within academic institutions. It offers frameworks to better align educational offerings with student needs. 🎓📊

  • 🤖 Human-Computer Interaction in Customer Service: Experience with AI Chatbots

    • Authors: L. Nicolescu, M.T. Tudorache

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: 250

    • Summary: A comprehensive review of AI chatbot applications in customer service, emphasizing user experience and HCI design. The study suggests future paths for integrating AI into customer interaction strategies. 💬📱

  • 📚 Economia, Firma şi Managementul Bazate pe Cunoştinţe

    • Authors: O. Nicolescu, L. Nicolescu

    • Year: 2005

    • Citations: 220

    • Summary: A foundational Romanian-language book discussing knowledge-based economics, organizational management, and competitive strategies for firms in a knowledge economy. 🧠🏢

  • 🛒 Consumer Empowerment in the Digital Economy

    • Authors: P. Gazzola, G. Colombo, R. Pezzetti, L. Nicolescu

    • Year: 2017

    • Citations: 154

    • Summary: This paper delves into how digital technologies enable consumers to make sustainable purchasing decisions, enhancing transparency and market influence. 💻♻️

  • 💼 Relating Higher Education with the Labour Market

    • Authors: L. Nicolescu, C. Pǎun

    • Year: 2009

    • Citations: 132

    • Summary: The article examines mismatches between graduate expectations and employer needs, calling for better alignment between academic curricula and job market demands. 🎓📈

  • 🏠 Regeneration of Family Business Entrepreneurship in the Balkans

    • Authors: O.S.K.N.L. Poutziouris, L. Nicolescu

    • Year: 1997

    • Citations: 99

    • Summary: Focuses on the revival of entrepreneurial practices in Balkan family businesses post-communism, highlighting cultural and economic renewal. 🌱🌍

  • 🌐 Influence of Competitiveness on SMEs’ Internationalization

    • Authors: E.M. Vătămănescu, A.G. Andrei, L. Nicolescu, et al.

    • Year: 2017

    • Citations: 60

    • Summary: Investigates how digital competitiveness and networking influence SMEs’ global expansion, comparing online vs. offline strategies. 📡🚀

  • 📖 Reforming Higher Education in Romania

    • Authors: L. Nicolescu

    • Year: 2002

    • Citations: 57

    • Summary: Analyzes Romania’s educational reform post-EU accession, addressing systemic challenges and progress toward Bologna Process goals. 🇷🇴🎯

  • 🌍 Migration and Romania’s EU Accession

    • Authors: D.L. Constantin, V. Vasile, D. Preda, L. Nicolescu

    • Year: 2004

    • Citations: 50

    • Summary: Explores migration patterns and policies in Romania, with implications for labor mobility and integration within the EU. 🧳🗺️

  • 📊 Employability Confidence Model Using PLS-SEM

    • Authors: L. Nicolescu, C. Nicolescu

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 45

    • Summary: Builds a predictive model using PLS-SEM to assess employability perceptions among business graduates. 🔍👨‍🎓

Conclusion💡

Professor Luminiţa Nicolescu is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her long-standing academic leadership, international research involvement, policy influence, and commitment to institutional development make her a deserving nominee. With added emphasis on publishing high-impact research and expanding innovation activities, her profile would become even more compelling for global recognition.

Adem Pinar | Decision Sciences | Academic and Industrial Synergy Award

Assist Prof Dr. Adem Pinar | Decision Sciences | Academic and Industrial Synergy Award

Faculty member at the School of Business at Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, United States

Adem Pinar is a distinguished academic and logistics expert currently serving at the School of Business, Shenandoah University, Virginia. With a diverse background that includes military logistics and academia, he brings over 20 years of experience to his roles. Adem’s journey began in Turkey, where he excelled in logistics and supply chain management. He has since transitioned to teaching and research, focusing on performance evaluation and decision-making methodologies within supply chain contexts. His multidisciplinary approach combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights gained from extensive experience in military logistics and NATO operations. Adem is committed to fostering innovation in logistics education, bridging the gap between academic theories and real-world applications, making him a valuable asset to both the academic community and the industry.

Professional Profile

Education

Adem Pinar holds an impressive academic background, beginning with a Bachelor’s in Systems Engineering from the Turkish War Academy. He furthered his studies, obtaining a Master’s in International Relations from Trakya University and a Master’s in Information Systems from the Middle East Technical University, ranked highly in Turkey. His academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Supply and Logistics Management from Gazi University, where his dissertation focused on evaluating supplier performance using advanced fuzzy set methodologies. Adem’s diverse educational credentials provide a robust foundation for his current research and teaching, equipping him with both technical expertise and a comprehensive understanding of international security and strategic planning. This solid educational background has enabled him to effectively blend academic rigor with practical insights in his current roles.

Professional Experience

Adem Pinar’s professional experience spans both military and academic environments, showcasing his expertise in logistics and supply chain management. He served as a Senior Logistics Officer for the Turkish Armed Forces, where he played a pivotal role in strategic logistics planning for cross-border operations. His experience with NATO further enhanced his logistics expertise, culminating in his role as a member of the NATO Logistics Committee Executive Group. In academia, Adem has held positions at multiple institutions, including Siena College and the University of Turkish Aeronautical Association, teaching various undergraduate and graduate courses in logistics and operations management. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor at Shenandoah University, where he continues to engage students while conducting impactful research. This combination of military and academic experience allows Adem to provide a unique perspective on supply chain challenges, making him a sought-after expert in his field.

Research Interests

Adem Pinar’s research interests lie primarily in supply chain management, logistics, and decision-making methodologies. He specializes in the application of fuzzy set theory to complex decision-making problems, particularly in the context of supplier selection and performance evaluation. His work employs advanced techniques such as q-rung orthopair fuzzy sets to address uncertainty and enhance decision-making processes. Additionally, Adem explores topics related to cybersecurity in supply chains, aiming to optimize operational resilience and mitigate risks in logistics systems. His commitment to applied research is evident through his numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals, where he addresses both theoretical frameworks and practical applications. By integrating academic research with industry needs, Adem aims to develop innovative solutions that enhance supply chain efficiency and sustainability.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Adem Pinar has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his exemplary service and contributions to the field of logistics. His military tenure earned him over 40 honors from NATO and the Turkish Armed Forces, including the prestigious medal for Logistic and Administrative Service from the Deputy General Chief of Staff. In academia, Adem has been acknowledged for his impactful research, evidenced by his extensive publication record and citations. His work has significantly influenced decision-making processes in logistics and supply chain management, showcasing his commitment to advancing the field. Adem’s dedication to education and mentorship has also been recognized through various awards, highlighting his role in shaping future professionals in logistics. These accolades reflect his expertise and commitment to excellence, further solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in logistics and supply chain research.

Conclusion

Adem Pinar exhibits a strong profile that aligns well with the criteria for the Research for Academic and Industrial Synergy Award. His robust academic qualifications, extensive research output, and practical experience in logistics provide a solid foundation for impactful contributions to both academia and industry. By enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration and increasing the practical application of his research, Adem could further strengthen his candidacy for this award. Overall, he demonstrates significant potential for fostering valuable academic-industrial partnerships.

Publication top noted

  • 📝 Article
    Author(s): Kasimoglu, F., Bayeg, S., Pinar, A., Utku, D.H.
    Year: 2024
    Title: A trapezoidal intuitionistic fuzzy optimization approach for crashing a budget constrained project
    Citations: 1
  • 📝 Article (in Press)
    Author(s): Pinar, A.
    Year: 2023
    Title: An integrated sentiment analysis and q-rung orthopair fuzzy MCDM model for supplier selection in E-commerce: a comprehensive approach
    Citations: 1
  • 📝 Article
    Author(s): Pinar, A., Boran, F.E.
    Year: 2022
    Title: A novel distance measure on q-rung picture fuzzy sets and its application to decision making and classification problems
    Citations: 28
  • 📚 Book Chapter
    Author(s): Pinar, A., Boran, F.E.
    Year: 2022
    Title: 3PL Service Provider Selection with q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Based CODAS Method
    Citations: 2
  • 📚 Book Chapter
    Author(s): Pinar, A.
    Year: 2022
    Title: Supplier Evaluation with Q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy-Based COPRAS Method
    Citations: 0
  • 📝 Article
    Author(s): Pinar, A., Erdebilli, B.D.R.B., Özdemir, Y.S.
    Year: 2021
    Title: Q-rung orthopair fuzzy topsis method for green supplier selection problem
    Citations: 62
  • 📝 Article
    Author(s): Pinar, A., Boran, F.E.
    Year: 2020
    Title: A q-rung orthopair fuzzy multi-criteria group decision making method for supplier selection based on a novel distance measure
    Citations: 92