Hasnah Haron | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hasnah Haron | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Senior lecturer at Faculty of Health Sciences, Univrsiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia

Associate Professor Dr. Ts. Hasnah Haron is a distinguished researcher in nutritional sciences at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, specializing in food composition analysis, soy health benefits, and innovative food product development. With a Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences, she has garnered international recognition through prestigious fellowships at Cornell University and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Dr. Hasnah has significantly contributed to Malaysia’s nutritional landscape as a national representative for the Asia Pacific Food Analysis Network and a key member of committees developing the countryā€™s Food Composition Database and Dietary Guidelines. Her impactful research is reflected in high-quality publications addressing public health challenges, particularly in salt reduction and nutritional interventions. A dedicated mentor, she has supervised nearly 50 postgraduate students, fostering future leaders in the field. Dr. Hasnahā€™s commitment to research excellence, innovation, and public health policy makes her a leading figure in advancing nutritional science and wellness.

Professional ProfileĀ 

Education

Associate Professor Dr. Ts. Hasnah Haron possesses a robust academic foundation in nutritional sciences and food science. She earned her Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences from Universiti Putra Malaysia in 2009, where her research focused on calcium absorption and the bioavailability of isoflavones from tempe compared to milk among postmenopausal women. She also holds an M.Sc. in Food Sciences from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (2002), where she honed her expertise in food composition and analysis. Her academic journey began with a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Food Science and Nutrition from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (1996), providing her with a comprehensive understanding of nutrition and food technology. Dr. Hasnahā€™s education laid a strong foundation for her career in nutritional research and public health, enabling her to contribute significantly to areas such as food product development, nutritional policy formulation, and the advancement of scientific knowledge in food and health sciences.

Professional Experience

Associate Professor Dr. Ts. Hasnah Haron has extensive professional experience in nutritional sciences and food technology. Currently serving as an Associate Professor at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) since 2013, she has been pivotal in advancing research and education in the field. Prior to this role, she was a Lecturer at UKM from 2002 to 2012, shaping the academic journey of numerous students. Dr. Hasnahā€™s career began as a Science Officer at UNIPEQ, UKM (1996ā€“1999), where she contributed to food quality and safety initiatives. Beyond academia, she has served in influential roles, including as the National Representative for the Asia Pacific Food Analysis Network and as a member of technical working groups for Malaysia’s Food Composition Database and Dietary Guidelines. Dr. Hasnahā€™s professional trajectory highlights her dedication to research excellence, policy development, and the promotion of nutritional health, making her a key figure in her discipline.

Research Interest

Associate Professor Dr. Ts. Hasnah Haronā€™s research interests lie at the intersection of nutrition, health, and food science, with a focus on addressing pressing public health challenges. Her expertise encompasses food composition analysis, where she investigates the nutritional profiles of various foods to inform healthier dietary choices. She is particularly renowned for her work on the health effects of soy consumption, exploring its role in promoting bone health and preventing chronic diseases. Dr. Hasnah is also deeply involved in innovative food product development, emphasizing sustainable and functional foods tailored to diverse consumer needs. Additionally, her research utilizes stable isotope techniques to study calcium absorption and protein quality, contributing to advancements in maternal and child nutrition. Dr. Hasnahā€™s work is characterized by its multidisciplinary approach, integrating nutrition science, public health, and technology to enhance food safety, improve dietary guidelines, and support the development of evidence-based nutritional policies.

Award and Honor

Associate Professor Dr. Ts. Hasnah Haron has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to research, education, and innovation through numerous awards and honors. She received the prestigious Fellowship from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for her groundbreaking research on calcium absorption using stable isotopes at Cornell University, USA. Dr. Hasnah also earned the UKM Young Researcher Fellowship for her research attachment at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, USA. Her dedication to bone nutrition research earned her a Publication Prize from the Nutrition Society of Malaysia in 2013. Dr. Hasnah has been honored with multiple Excellent Service and Teaching Awards from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, reflecting her commitment to academic excellence. Additionally, she has received accolades for research innovation, including bronze and silver awards at the Invention, Innovation & Design Exposition (IIDEX). These recognitions underscore her contributions to advancing nutritional science and innovative food research on both national and international levels.

Conclusion

Dr. Hasnah Haron is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award due to her extensive contributions to nutritional sciences, leadership in national and regional food initiatives, impactful research on public health nutrition, and dedication to academic mentorship. Strengthening her international collaborations and focusing on translating research into global health policies would further solidify her case for the award.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Daidzein and genistein contents in tempeh and selected soy products
    Authors: H Haron, A Ismail, A Azlan, S Shahar, LS Peng
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 125
  • Title: Comparison of total phenolic contents (TPC) and antioxidant activities of fresh fruit juices, commercial 100% fruit juices, and fruit drinks
    Authors: KH Wern, H Haron, CB Keng
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 69
  • Title: Toxicological evaluation of some Malaysian locally processed raw food products
    Authors: R Sharif, AR Ghazali, NF Rajab, H Haron, F Osman
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 69
  • Title: Amylose and amylopectin in selected Malaysian foods and its relationship to glycemic index
    Authors: SN Shanita, H Hasnah, CW Khoo
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 64
  • Title: Effect of Talbinah food consumption on depressive symptoms among elderly individuals in long-term care facilities, randomized clinical trial
    Authors: MM Badrasawi, S Shahar, ZA Manaf, H Haron
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 58
  • Title: Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of beans: organic vs inorganic
    Authors: YH Mastura, H Hasnah, TN Dang
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 50
  • Title: Comparison of physicochemical analysis and antioxidant activities of Nigella sativa seeds and oils from Yemen, Iran, and Malaysia
    Authors: H Haron, C Grace-Lynn, S Shahar
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 44
  • Title: Changes in macronutrient, total phenolic and anti-nutrient contents during preparation of tempeh
    Authors: H Haron, N Raob
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 39
  • Title: Absorption of calcium from milk and tempeh consumed by postmenopausal Malay women using the dual stable isotope technique
    Authors: H Haron, S Shahar, KO O’Brien, A Ismail, N Kamaruddin, SA Rahman
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 28
  • Title: Bone health status and lipid profile among post-menopausal Malay women in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur
    Authors: H Hasnah, I Amin, S Suzana
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 23
  • Title: More ulam for your brain: a review on the potential role of ulam in protecting against cognitive decline
    Authors: Y You, S Shahar, H Haron, HM Yahya
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 20
  • Title: Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacities of instant mix spices cooking pastes
    Authors: Y Hanis Mastura, H Hasnah, YT Yap
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 20
  • Title: Apparent bioavailability of isoflavones in urinary excretions of postmenopausal Malay women consuming tempeh compared with milk
    Authors: H Haron, A Ismail, S Shahar, A Azlan, LS Peng
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 20
  • Title: Development and validation of food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for estimation of the dietary polyphenol intake among elderly individuals in Klang Valley
    Authors: S Shahar, CH Lin, H Haron
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 16
  • Title: Hubungan di antara Amalan Kebersihan Diri Pengendali Makanan dan Kebersihan Kafetaria di Kolej Kediaman UKM
    Authors: H Sino, Z Mahadi, H Haron, MA Misrin, NI Ismail, MH Mustapa
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 14

 

Jorge Alfaro Montoya | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Paper Award

Dr. Jorge Alfaro Montoya | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Paper Award

Retaired Professo at Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica

Dr. Jorge E. Alfaro-Montoya is a distinguished Professor of Marine Biology and Aquaculture at Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, with a specialization in the reproductive physiology of marine shrimps. Born in Alajuela, Costa Rica, on March 5, 1962, he has made significant contributions to shrimp aquaculture and marine biology through his research on controlled reproduction, male and female reproductive physiology, and the development of techniques for improving mariculture practices. Dr. Alfaro-Montoya has authored numerous scientific papers and books on shrimp aquaculture and continues to be an influential figure in Latin American aquaculture.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Jorge E. Alfaro-Montoya’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Marine Biology from Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, in 1982. He continued his studies at the same institution, earning a postgraduate degree (Licenciatura) in Marine Biology with a focus on Aquaculture in 1985. Furthering his expertise, Dr. Alfaro-Montoya received a scholarship from the U.S. International Development Agency and pursued a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Aquaculture at Texas A&M University, USA, graduating in 1990. His academic pursuit culminated with a Ph.D. in Animal Sciences from Wageningen University, The Netherlands, in 2001, where he deepened his research in marine invertebrates and reproductive physiology. His diverse educational background has provided a strong foundation for his distinguished career in marine biology and aquaculture.

Experience

Dr. Jorge E. Alfaro-Montoya began his academic career as a faculty scientist at the Department of Biological Sciences at Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, from 1985 to 1995. Following this, he became a full professor at the same institution, where he has been teaching courses in marine biology and aquaculture, with a focus on shrimp reproduction. He is also a recognized researcher in the field, having pioneered advancements in the understanding of reproductive physiology in marine shrimps, including techniques for improving reproductive health and productivity. Dr. Alfaro-Montoya has held various leadership roles in research projects and scientific collaborations globally.

Research Focus

Dr. Alfaro-Montoyaā€™s research primarily centers on the marine culture of invertebrates, with an emphasis on penaeid shrimps. His work delves into controlled shrimp reproduction, improving the quality of spermatophores, understanding reproductive physiology, and studying sex reversal and reproduction pheromones in Litopenaeus vannamei. He has made notable contributions in shrimp reproduction, including developing models for spermatophore production, studying ovarian maturation and spawning, and uncovering the impact of environmental factors, such as El NiƱo, on male shrimp sexuality. His research continues to explore novel techniques for improving aquaculture practices and understanding the reproductive biology of marine crustaceans.

Author Metrics

Dr. Jorge E. Alfaro-Montoya has made significant contributions to the field of marine biology and aquaculture, particularly in shrimp reproduction. He has published numerous research papers in prestigious scientific journals such as Aquaculture and Aquaculture Research, which focus on topics related to marine invertebrates and reproductive physiology. His work has garnered substantial recognition within the scientific community, and his research is frequently cited in studies related to shrimp aquaculture, reproductive health, and aquaculture practices. Additionally, Dr. Alfaro-Montoya is the author of two books on shrimp aquaculture and general biology, further solidifying his influence in the field. His work continues to shape the understanding of crustacean reproductive biology and has been instrumental in advancing shrimp farming techniques globally.

Conclusion

Dr. Jorge E. Alfaro-Montoya is highly deserving of recognition for the Best Paper Award. His pioneering work on shrimp reproductive physiology has had profound implications for improving shrimp aquaculture practices, influencing both academic and practical approaches within the field. With a robust publication record and widespread citations, his contributions are recognized globally. However, his research could benefit from further integration with environmental and sustainability-focused research, ensuring long-term impacts on the global aquaculture industry.

Publications Top Noted

  1. Magnetic Fe3O4 Nanoparticles: Efficient and Recoverable Nanocatalyst for the Synthesis of Polyhydroquinolines and Hantzsch 1,4-Dihydropyridines under Solvent-Free Conditions
    Authors: M. Nasr-Esfahani, S.J. Hoseini, M. Montazerozohori, R. Mehrabi, ā€¦
    Journal: Journal of Molecular Catalysis A: Chemical
    Volume: 382
    Pages: 99-105
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 198
  2. Fe3O4 Nanoparticles as an Efficient and Magnetically Recoverable Catalyst for the Synthesis of 3,4-Dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-ones under Solvent-Free Conditions
    Authors: N.E. Masoud, S.J. Hoseini, F. Mohammadi
    Journal: Chinese Journal of Catalysis
    Volume: 32 (9-10)
    Pages: 1484-1489
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 130
  3. Ionic Liquid and Sulfonic Acid-Based Bifunctional Periodic Mesoporous Organosilica (BPMOā€“ILā€“SO3H) as a Highly Efficient and Reusable Nanocatalyst
    Authors: D. Elhamifar, M. Nasrā€Esfahani, B. Karimi, R. Moshkelgosha, A. ShĆ”bani
    Journal: ChemCatChem
    Volume: 6 (9)
    Pages: 2593-2599
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 95
  4. Photocatalytic Degradation of an Organic Dye in Some Aqueous Buffer Solutions Using Nano Titanium Dioxide: A Kinetic Study
    Authors: M. Montazerozohori, M. Nasr-Esfahani, S. Joohari
    Journal: Environment Protection Engineering
    Volume: 38 (3)
    Pages: 45-55
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 61
  5. Some New Cadmium Complexes: Antibacterial/Antifungal Activity and Thermal Behavior
    Authors: M. Montazerozohori, S. Zahedi, M. Nasr-Esfahani, A. Naghiha
    Journal: Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry
    Volume: 20 (4)
    Pages: 2463-2470
    Year: 2014