Dr. Justine Guguneni Tuolong | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Justine Guguneni Tuolong | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, Ghana

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Justine Guguneni Tuolong embarked on his academic journey with a strong passion for social policy and governance. He pursued a Ph.D. in Development Management and Governance at Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS), Ghana. His education and early academic interests focused on research, policy analysis, and management. These early pursuits laid the foundation for his expertise in health systems research, social policy, and governance. His scholarly development was marked by a commitment to addressing issues related to public health and administration, ensuring his work had a tangible societal impact.

Professional Endeavors and Teaching Experience 📚

Tuolong has built an impressive career in academia and research. He serves as a part-time lecturer at SDD-UBIDS, where he contributes to the education and mentorship of students in development management, governance, and public administration. He is also the founding director of Brainbox Research Institute Ltd., where he conducts workshops focusing on social science research and data analytics. His professional efforts have been aimed at training and capacity building, particularly in the realm of policy analysis and research methods. Notably, he has collaborated with the Ghana Nations Builders Corp. and participated in the US Embassy-sponsored “Girls Go Digital” project, where he provided leadership in research and digital literacy initiatives for young women.

Throughout his academic career, Tuolong has also been actively engaged in facilitating workshops and seminars for postgraduate students and faculty members. His expertise in research methods, particularly in referencing skills using Mendeley, is highly regarded, and he continues to be an invaluable resource for academic development at SDD-UBIDS.

Contributions and Research Focus 🧑‍🔬

Tuolong’s research interests are broad yet focused on critical societal issues such as healthcare access, governance, and the role of digital technologies in improving livelihoods. His work on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in Ghana, particularly its impact on healthcare access in the Wa Municipality, has provided valuable insights into how health policies affect communities at the local level. His research consistently addresses the gap between policy formulation and its practical implications, with an emphasis on equity and access to healthcare for marginalized populations.

He has also been instrumental in examining the role of digital technologies in financial inclusion, especially concerning micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). His participation in numerous conferences and workshops, such as the 4th Research and Development Conference at SDD-UBIDS, has highlighted his collaborative approach to research. For instance, his co-authored research on the performance of MSMEs and the impact of local actors in forest co-management reflects his commitment to sustainability and the role of governance in resource management.

Tuolong’s work often extends into health system research. He has explored the effectiveness of healthcare policies, such as Ghana’s free healthcare policy, and their capacity to enhance financial access for Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) beneficiaries. His research in this domain adopts a qualitative approach, ensuring that the voices of the affected populations are integrated into the analysis and that policy recommendations are grounded in real-world experiences.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout his career, Justine Guguneni Tuolong has earned recognition for his contributions to academia and society. His participation in both local and international conferences has positioned him as a thought leader in development management and governance. He has been invited to present at conferences such as the Upper West Regional Health Directorate Maiden Conference, where his quantitative study on intimate partner violence among people living with HIV in Ghana gained attention for its policy implications.

He has also served as a session chair and a co-author of several peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. His contributions have not gone unnoticed, as his work is increasingly cited in academic and policy circles for its depth and relevance to current societal challenges.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Tuolong’s influence is seen not only in his research and teaching but also in his efforts to bridge the gap between academia and practice. His leadership at Brainbox Research Institute Ltd. has allowed him to extend his impact beyond the classroom, offering practical solutions and training for organizations and government bodies. His collaboration with development agencies like the US Embassy has furthered his mission to foster digital literacy and empower young people, particularly women, through education and technology.

Additionally, his research has contributed to shaping health policy discussions in Ghana. His work on healthcare access, particularly in the context of the NHIS and the free healthcare policy, has been critical in informing policymakers about the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in accessing necessary services.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Justine Guguneni Tuolong’s legacy is built on his unwavering commitment to social policy, governance, and health systems research. His contributions to the academic community and society at large are vast, spanning healthcare, policy analysis, and digital inclusion. His work in promoting equitable access to resources and services, especially healthcare, will undoubtedly continue to inspire future scholars and policymakers.

Looking forward, Tuolong aims to expand his research and teaching efforts to address emerging challenges in governance, healthcare, and technology. His ongoing work in digital technologies and financial inclusion, along with his research into healthcare systems, positions him as a pivotal figure in shaping the future of development policies in Ghana and beyond.

As a scholar and practitioner, Tuolong’s future contributions are likely to continue to influence policy discussions, academic thought, and the implementation of practical solutions in the fields of development and governance. His legacy will be one of impact, innovation, and a dedication to the betterment of society.

📝Notable Publications

Administrative Efficiency and Policy Failure: The National Health Insurance Scheme of Ghana in Perspective

Authors: FN Sanyare, JG Tuolong
Journal: Global Encyclopedia of Public Administration, Public Policy, and Governance
Year: 2017

Supply-side factors influencing national health insurance uptake, access and use of primary health care: Evidence from the Upper West Region, Ghana

Authors: JG Tuolong, KA Alatinga, E Yendaw
Journal: SSM – Health Systems
Year: 2024

Factors Associated with Contraceptive Use Among Migrant Female Head Porters in the Kumasi Metropolis

Authors: C Dassah, JG Tuolong
Journal: N/A (yet to be published in a journal, just the year 2023 is mentioned)
Year: 2023

Implications of the supply and demand-side models of national health insurance for universal health coverage in Wa municipality of Ghana

Authors: JG Tuolong, KA Alatinga, E Yendaw
Journal: University for Development Studies 1st Annual Graduate School Conference Proceedings
Year: 2021

 

Dr. Polyzois Makras | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Polyzois Makras | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

251 Hellenic Air Force & VA General Hospital, Department of Medical Research, Greece 

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🏫 Early Academic Pursuits

Polyzois Makras embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in medicine. He earned his MD degree from the University of Thessaloniki, Greece, in 1994, laying the groundwork for his future contributions to the field of endocrinology. Following his medical degree, he pursued specialized training in Internal Medicine and Endocrinology in Athens, where he developed a keen interest in disorders of calcium and bone metabolism. His academic curiosity and drive led him to further his education, culminating in the completion of a PhD from the University of Thrace, Greece. This academic achievement set the stage for his extensive research career.

Makras’s academic path also included a significant international experience. He served as a clinical fellow at the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases of the Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands between 2006 and 2007. This period was instrumental in shaping his expertise in metabolic diseases and provided him with a broader perspective on global health challenges related to endocrinology.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Polyzois Makras has made significant strides in his professional career, particularly in the field of endocrinology. He currently serves as a Consultant Endocrinologist and Director of the Department of Medical Research at the 251 Hellenic Air Force & VA General Hospital of Athens, Greece. In this role, he has become a pivotal figure in the study and treatment of rare diseases, specifically Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) and Erdheim Chester Disease (ECD). His leadership in these areas has been transformative, as he established and directed the National Expert Center for LCH and ECD at his institution.

Makras co-founded the LCH adult clinic in 2005, which later evolved into the National Expert Center for LCH and ECD in 2019. Under his guidance, the center became recognized for its excellence and joined the ERN – EuroBloodNet in 2022, a European reference network for rare hematological diseases. His commitment to advancing knowledge and treatment options for these rare conditions has placed him at the forefront of histiocytosis research.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Over the last eighteen years, Dr. Makras has dedicated his research efforts to understanding disorders of calcium and bone metabolism, as well as rare diseases, particularly LCH and non-Langerhans histiocytoses. His work in these fields has been pioneering, and he has contributed significantly to the scientific community’s understanding of these complex conditions.

Dr. Makras is a founding member of the European Consortium for Histiocytosis (ECHO) and the head of the Adult ECHO working group. Through these roles, he has facilitated collaboration among researchers and clinicians across Europe, fostering the development of new treatments and management strategies for histiocytosis. His research has also led to the publication of numerous diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines, particularly in osteoporosis and parathyroid disorders. These guidelines have been instrumental in shaping clinical practice in Greece, where Dr. Makras is recognized as a leading authority in his field.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Makras’s contributions to endocrinology and rare disease research have been widely recognized. He is the former President of the Hellenic Society for the Study of Bone Metabolism, a role in which he influenced the direction of bone metabolism research and advocacy in Greece. Additionally, he has been a member of the Committee of Scientific Advisors of the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) since 2020. His involvement with the IOF underscores his global impact, as he has played a key role in shaping international osteoporosis research and policy.

In Greece, Dr. Makras is known for establishing the country’s first fracture liaison service (FLS), a crucial development in the prevention and management of osteoporosis-related fractures. His leadership in this area has set a new standard of care for patients with osteoporosis, significantly improving outcomes and reducing the incidence of fractures.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Makras’s impact extends beyond his immediate clinical and research environment. Through his leadership roles in national and international organizations, he has influenced the global approach to bone metabolism disorders and rare diseases. His guidelines for osteoporosis and parathyroid disorders have become the gold standard in Greece, and his advocacy for the establishment of FLS has led to improved patient care and outcomes.

Moreover, his work with the European Consortium for Histiocytosis (ECHO) has facilitated cross-border collaboration, enabling researchers and clinicians to share knowledge and resources in the fight against histiocytosis. This collaborative approach has accelerated the development of new treatments and improved the quality of life for patients with these rare diseases.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Makras continues his work, his legacy is already evident in the advancements he has driven in endocrinology and rare disease research. His establishment of the LCH and ECD expert center, his leadership in the Hellenic Society for the Study of Bone Metabolism, and his role in the International Osteoporosis Foundation are all testaments to his enduring impact on the medical field.

Looking to the future, Dr. Makras is poised to continue making significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of rare diseases and bone metabolism disorders. His ongoing research, coupled with his commitment to improving clinical care through the development of new guidelines and services, ensures that his influence will be felt for years to come.

In summary, Polyzois Makras MD, PhD, is a distinguished endocrinologist whose work has had a profound impact on both national and international levels. His dedication to research, clinical care, and collaboration has not only advanced the understanding of complex medical conditions but has also improved the lives of countless patients. As he continues to push the boundaries of medical science, his contributions will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in the field of endocrinology.

Notable Publications 

Primary hyperparathyroidism: from guidelines to outpatient clinic

Authors: Andrea Palermo, Gaia Tabacco, Polyzois Makras, Guido Zavatta, Pierpaolo Trimboli, Elena Castellano, Maria P. Yavropoulou, Anda Mihaela Naciu, Athanasios D. Anastasilakis

Journal: Reviews in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders

Year: 2024

The comparative effect of teriparatide and denosumab on activins, follistatins, and inhibins in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis

Authors: Athanasios D Anastasilakis, Stergios A Polyzos, Polyzois Makras, Matthaios Savvidis, Christos S Mantzoros

Journal: Journal of Bone and Mineral Research

Year: 2024

Romsozumab versus parathyroid hormone receptor agonists: which osteoanabolic to choose and when?

Authors: Athanasios D Anastasilakis, Maria P Yavropoulou, Andrea Palermo, Polyzois Makras, Julien Paccou, Gaia Tabacco, Anda Mihaela Naciu, Elena Tsourdi

Journal: European Journal of Endocrinology

Year: 2024

Transient osteoporosis of the hip following discontinuation of denosumab and switch to alendronate treatment

Authors: Polyzois Makras, Maria P. Yavropoulou, Athanasios D. Anastasilakis, Athanasios Papatheodorou, Christos Tekedis, Socrates E. Papapoulos

Journal: Osteoporosis International

Year: 2024

The relationship between length of denosumab treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis and serum TRAcP5b measured six months after the last injection

Authors: Polyzois Makras, Maria P. Yavropoulou, Stergios A. Polyzos, Socrates E. Papapoulos, Danai Georgakopoulou, Athanasios Papatheodorou, Athanasios D. Anastasilakis

Journal: Osteoporosis International

Year: 2024

Dr. Haitham Afan |Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Haitham Afan |Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Upper Euphrates Basin Developing Center, University of Anbar, Iraq

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Haitham Abdulmohsin Afan’s journey into the world of engineering began with a Bachelor of Science in Dams and Water Resources Engineering from the University of Anbar, Iraq, in 2010. This foundational education set the stage for his deep interest in water resources engineering, a field that would become the cornerstone of his academic and professional career. His early academic years were marked by a strong dedication to understanding the complexities of water resource management, an essential discipline in a region where water scarcity and management are critical issues.

Driven by a desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of civil engineering, Afan pursued a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Water Resources Engineering at the University Kebangsaan Malaysia. During this period (2012-2014), he honed his skills in the application of advanced engineering principles to water resource challenges, laying the groundwork for his future research. His master’s thesis, which focused on artificial intelligence-based models for streamflow forecasting, was a precursor to his later work in the field.

In 2017, Afan completed his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Civil Engineering, with a concentration in Water Resources Engineering, from the University Kebangsaan Malaysia. His doctoral research was distinguished by its innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to address complex water resource issues. His work in developing predictive models for sediment transport and river flow forecasting using AI has been widely recognized and cited in academic circles, contributing significantly to the field of water resources engineering.

🛠️ Professional Endeavors

Afan’s professional journey is as impressive as his academic achievements. His career has been marked by roles in various academic and research institutions across the globe, each position contributing to his growing reputation as a leading expert in civil and water resources engineering.

After completing his Ph.D., Afan took on a role as a Research Assistant at the University Kebangsaan Malaysia, where he worked on a project focused on the use of computational modeling for transdisciplinary engineering applications. This early experience in multidisciplinary research set the stage for his future endeavors, where he would often integrate AI with traditional engineering disciplines.

In 2018, Afan joined the Sustainable Developments in Civil Engineering Research Group at Ton Duc Thang University (TDTU) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, as a Researcher. Here, he continued to push the boundaries of water resources engineering by exploring the applications of AI in sustainable development. His research during this period was critical in developing new methodologies for streamflow forecasting and heavy metal prediction in water bodies, contributing to environmental protection efforts in the region.

His postdoctoral work at the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, further solidified his expertise. As a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow in the Faculty of Engineering, Afan worked on advanced projects that integrated AI into water resource management, enhancing the predictive capabilities of engineering models.

In 2020, Afan’s career took him to Duy Tan University (DTU) in Da Nang, Vietnam, where he served as a Researcher at the Institute of Research and Development. His work here continued to focus on AI applications in civil engineering, particularly in the areas of hydrology and water resource management.

He also served as a Lecturer and Coordinator of the Civil Engineering Faculty at Al Maarif University College (AUC) in Ramadi, Anbar, Iraq, from 2020 to 2023. During his tenure, Afan was responsible for teaching a variety of courses, including Water Resources Engineering, Hydrology, and Engineering Analysis. His efforts in curriculum development and student mentorship were instrumental in shaping the next generation of engineers in Iraq.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Haitham Abdulmohsin Afan’s research is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature and its focus on the application of artificial intelligence in civil engineering. Over the years, he has published 61 research papers, accumulating over 3,055 citations, with an impressive h-index of 30 and an i10-index of 52. These metrics underscore the impact of his work on the academic community.

Afan’s research has primarily focused on developing AI-based models for various aspects of water resources engineering. His work includes the use of artificial neural networks (ANN) and radial basis function neural networks (RBFNN) for predicting river flow, sediment transport, and heavy metal contamination in water bodies. These models have proven to be highly effective in improving the accuracy of predictions in hydrological studies, which are crucial for sustainable water resource management.

In addition to his research, Afan has made significant contributions as an editor and reviewer for several high-impact journals. He currently serves as an editor for the Iraqi Journal of Civil Engineering and has been a leading editor for the Complexity Journal. His expertise is also sought after by numerous other journals, including the Journal of Hydrology, Water Resources Management Journal, and Environmental Earth Science Journal, where he has been recognized as a reviewer.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Afan has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the field of civil engineering. His research has been recognized by academic institutions and professional organizations alike. As a member of the Iraqi Engineers Union since 2010, Afan has been actively involved in the engineering community, both in Iraq and internationally.

His role as a recognized reviewer for prestigious journals is a testament to his expertise and the high regard in which he is held by his peers. The certificates and awards he has received from these journals are a reflection of his dedication to advancing the field of civil engineering through rigorous research and scholarly contributions.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Afan’s work has had a significant impact on the field of civil engineering, particularly in the area of water resources management. His research has not only contributed to academic knowledge but has also had practical applications in environmental protection and sustainable development. The AI models he has developed are being used to improve the management of water resources in regions facing challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and climate change.

As a teacher and mentor, Afan has influenced the careers of many young engineers, instilling in them the importance of integrating technology with traditional engineering practices. His efforts in curriculum development and his commitment to student success have left a lasting legacy in the institutions where he has taught.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Haitham Abdulmohsin Afan is poised to continue his pioneering work in civil engineering. His ongoing research at the Upper Euphrates Basin Developing Centre at the University of Anbar, coupled with his editorial roles, positions him as a leading figure in the integration of AI with engineering. His future contributions are expected to further advance the field, particularly in areas related to sustainable water management and environmental protection.

Afan’s legacy will undoubtedly be marked by his innovative approach to engineering challenges and his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. His work will continue to influence future generations of engineers, ensuring that his contributions to civil engineering will be felt for years to come.

Notable Publications 

Artificial intelligence based models for stream-flow forecasting: 2000–2015

Authors: Z.M. Yaseen, A. El-Shafie, O. Jaafar, H.A. Afan, K.N. Sayl

Journal: Journal of Hydrology

Year: 2015

Machine learning methods for better water quality prediction

Authors: A.N. Ahmed, F.B. Othman, H.A. Afan, R.K. Ibrahim, C.M. Fai, M.S. Hossain, …

Journal: Journal of Hydrology

Year: 2019

Application of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques in water quality index prediction: a case study in tropical region, Malaysia

Authors: M. Hameed, S.S. Sharqi, Z.M. Yaseen, H.A. Afan, A. Hussain, A. Elshafie

Journal: Neural Computing and Applications

Year: 2017

ANN based sediment prediction model utilizing different input scenarios

Authors: H.A. Afan, A. El-Shafie, Z.M. Yaseen, M.M. Hameed, W.H.M. Wan Mohtar, …

Journal: Water Resources Management

Year: 2015

Past, present and prospect of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) based model for sediment transport prediction

Authors: H.A. Afan, A. El-shafie, W.H.M.W. Mohtar, Z.M. Yaseen

Journal: Journal of Hydrology

Year: 2016

Assoc Prof Dr. Puneeta Ajmera | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Puneeta Ajmera | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research University, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, India 

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Prajith A. embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Geology from Kannur University, Kerala, India, which laid the foundation for his deep-seated interest in marine sciences. Building on this solid base, he pursued a Master’s degree in Geology from the same university. His exceptional academic performance earned him a prestigious Junior Research Fellowship from CSIR-UGC, leading him to a Ph.D. in Marine Science at CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa University. During his doctoral studies, Dr. Prajith developed a strong research focus on sedimentology, paleoceanography, and paleoclimate, which would shape his future contributions to earth sciences.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Dr. Prajith A.’s career is marked by a commitment to exploring and understanding the complex processes of marine and polar environments. He began his professional journey as a Junior Research Fellow at CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, where he honed his skills in marine geology and oceanography. This was followed by his role as a Project Fellow at Mangalore University, where he further deepened his expertise in marine geology.

In 2013, Dr. Prajith joined CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography as a Senior Research Fellow, working on various projects related to marine sedimentology and paleoceanography. His notable contributions during this period led to his appointment as a Project Scientist at the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Goa, where he continued to build his reputation as a leading marine scientist.

Since 2021, Dr. Prajith has served as a Scientist B and later Scientist C at the National Centre for Earth Science Studies in Thiruvananthapuram. His role involves leading scientific cruises and fieldwork, contributing to significant research projects like the study of the exclusive economic zone of India and hydrothermal exploration in the Indian Ocean Ridge.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Prajith A.’s research is distinguished by its focus on sedimentology, paleoceanography, paleoclimate, and the exploration of hydrothermal sulphide minerals. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of sediment sources, diagenesis, and geochemistry in various marine environments. Notable research includes his studies on the influences of monsoon variations on terrigenous influx and bioproductivity in the Bay of Bengal, and his geochemical investigations of core sediments which provide insights into weathering and early diagenetic changes.

His shipborne experience, including leading and participating in multiple scientific cruises, underscores his practical expertise and leadership in marine research. Dr. Prajith has been involved in 11 scientific cruises, with leadership roles in several, including geological sampling and hydrothermal exploration missions.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Prajith A.’s exceptional contributions to earth sciences have been recognized through various awards and accolades. He received the CSIR-UGC Junior Research Fellowship in Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean, and Planetary Sciences in December 2010 and the CSIR-UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) lectureship in December 2008. His achievements reflect his dedication and excellence in his field.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Dr. Prajith’s research has had a profound impact on the understanding of marine sedimentology and paleoceanography. His studies have provided valuable insights into the geochemical and isotopic processes governing volcanic activities, rare earth element sources, and sediment weathering. His work has influenced scientific perspectives on environmental magnetism and hydrothermal systems, contributing to the broader field of marine and earth sciences.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Looking ahead, Dr. Prajith A. is poised to continue making significant contributions to the field of marine science. His ongoing research endeavors and leadership in scientific expeditions are expected to yield further advancements in understanding marine sediment processes and paleoceanographic changes. Dr. Prajith’s legacy will likely be defined by his pioneering work in exploring and analyzing complex marine environments, influencing future research directions and methodologies in earth sciences. His commitment to excellence and exploration will inspire future generations of scientists in the quest to unravel the mysteries of our planet’s oceans and sediments.

Publications 

Modelling the barriers of Health 4.0–the fourth healthcare industrial revolution in India by TISM

    • Authors: Puneeta Ajmera, Vineet Jain
    • Journal: Operations Management Research
    • Year: 2019

Modelling the enablers of industry 4.0 in the Indian manufacturing industry

    • Authors: Vineet Jain, Puneeta Ajmera
    • Journal: International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management
    • Year: 2021

Ranking the strategies for Indian medical tourism sector through the integration of SWOT analysis and TOPSIS method

    • Author: Puneeta Ajmera
    • Journal: International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance
    • Year: 2017

Modelling the factors affecting Indian medical tourism sector using interpretive structural modeling

    • Authors: Vineet Jain, Puneeta Ajmera
    • Journal: Benchmarking: An International Journal
    • Year: 2018

A fuzzy interpretive structural modeling approach for evaluating the factors affecting lean implementation in Indian healthcare industry

    • Authors: Puneeta Ajmera, Vineet Jain
    • Journal: International Journal of Lean Six Sigma
    • Year: 2020

Dr. Isabel Bico | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Isabel Bico | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Universidade de Évora, Portugal

🔗 Profile

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📚Early Academic Pursuits 

Isabel Maria Tarico Bico began her academic journey with a solid foundation in nursing. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Évora’s School of Nursing of São João de Deus in 1992. Her pursuit of excellence in the field continued with a specialized higher education course in Nursing at the Polytechnic Institute of Beja, where she obtained her Licentiate degree in 1999. She further specialized in Medical-Surgical Nursing, underscoring her commitment to advancing her expertise in critical care.

Her academic endeavors did not stop there. In 2005, Isabel earned a Master’s degree in Sociology with a focus on Human Resources and Sustainable Development from the University of Évora. Her dissertation, “A Família, a Morte e o Luto,” explored the profound themes of family, death, and mourning, reflecting her deep engagement with the social aspects of healthcare.

🩺Professional Endeavors 

Isabel’s professional career is marked by her dedication to both practical nursing and academic leadership. She started as a nurse at Hospital de São Bernardo and later at Hospital do Espírito Santo EPE, where she served from 1992 to 2003. Her transition to academia began in 2003 when she joined the University of Évora as an Assistant Lecturer. Over the years, she progressed to the position of Adjunct Professor, a role she has held since 2010.

In her academic role, Isabel has been instrumental in shaping nursing education. She is currently the Director of the Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing program at the University of Évora’s School of Nursing of São João de Deus. Additionally, she directs the Trauma Course, emphasizing her expertise in managing critical health situations. Isabel also serves on various academic committees, including the Technical-Scientific Council and the School Assembly, showcasing her leadership and commitment to academic governance.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus 

Isabel’s research interests are deeply rooted in improving patient care, particularly for those with advanced oncological diseases. Her Ph.D. thesis, completed in 2023 at the University of Lisbon, titled “Capacitar o doente oncológico com doença avançada e o cuidador principal para a gestão da dor em domicílio,” focuses on empowering cancer patients and their primary caregivers to manage pain at home. This work highlights her commitment to enhancing the quality of life for patients with severe illnesses.

Isabel’s research extends to critical care, communication, and end-of-life care, areas where she has made significant contributions. Her involvement in various research projects and her ability to integrate practical nursing with academic insights make her a valuable asset to the field.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Isabel’s dedication and expertise have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the approval with distinction of her doctoral thesis. Her work has been recognized for its impact on both academic and practical nursing fields.

In addition to her academic achievements, Isabel’s leadership roles have earned her respect and recognition within the nursing community. She has been a member of several prestigious committees and has played a pivotal role in the development and implementation of nursing programs at the University of Évora.

🌍Impact and Influence 

Isabel’s influence extends beyond her immediate professional environment. Her research on empowering cancer patients and caregivers has had a profound impact on patient care practices, particularly in the management of pain and palliative care. Her work emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care and the role of caregivers in the healthcare process.

Through her teaching and leadership, Isabel has mentored numerous nursing students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their careers. Her dedication to education and her ability to inspire future generations of nurses is a testament to her lasting impact on the field.

🌟Legacy and Future Contributions 

Isabel Maria Tarico Bico’s legacy is one of dedication, excellence, and compassion. Her contributions to nursing education, research, and patient care have left an indelible mark on the field. As she continues to lead and inspire, Isabel remains committed to advancing nursing practices and improving patient outcomes.

Looking ahead, Isabel plans to expand her research on patient empowerment and pain management, with a particular focus on innovative approaches and technologies. Her future work aims to further bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, ensuring that her contributions continue to benefit patients, caregivers, and the broader healthcare community.

Isabel’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication and the impact that one individual can have on the field of nursing and beyond.

📚 Publications

Dr. Ameni Boumaiza | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ameni Boumaiza | Decision-making and Problem-solving | Best Researcher Award

Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute, Qatar

🔗 Professional Profiles

Summary:

Dr. Ameni Boumaiza is a pioneering AI engineer and scientist at the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI). She is renowned for her expertise in artificial intelligence, renewable energy systems, and blockchain technology for energy trade. As an entrepreneur, she founded Q-Green, focusing on decentralized solar energy solutions.

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Computer Science/AI Engineering, University of Lorraine, France 🎓
  • M.S. in Computer Science/AI Engineering, National School of Engineering, Tunisia 📘

Professional Experience:

  • Scientist/Energy Demand & Trade Project Lead at QEERI 🌞
  • Founder of “Q-Green” startup 🌱
  • Post-doctoral Fellow specializing in modeling solar PV adoption 🌍
  • Previous roles in software engineering and R&D in Qatar and France 🖥️

Research Interests:

  • AI applications in smart cities 🏙️
  • Blockchain for renewable energy 🔄
  • Modeling solar energy adoption 🌞

📖Publication Top Noted

Title: A Blockchain-Based Scalability Solution with Microgrids Peer-to-Peer Trade Energies

    • Authors: Ameni Boumaiza
    • Journal: Energies
    • Volume: 17
    • Issue: 4
    • Pages: 915
    • Year: 2024

Title: A Blockchain-Centric P2P Trading Framework Incorporating Carbon and Energy Trades

    • Authors: Ameni Boumaiza
    • Journal: SSRN
    • Year: 2024
    • DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.4776369

Title: Testing Framework for Blockchain-Based Energy Trade Microgrids Applications

    • Authors: Ameni Boumaiza
    • Journal: IEEE Access
    • Year: 2024
    • DOI: 10.1109/ACCESS.2024.3367999

Title: A blockchain-centric P2P trading framework incorporating carbon and energy trades

    • Authors: Ameni Boumaiza; Antonio Sanfilippo
    • Journal: Energy Strategy Reviews
    • Volume: Not specified
    • Issue: Not specified
    • Pages: Not specified
    • Year: 2024-07
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.esr.2024.101466

Title: Carbon and Energy Trading Integration within a Blockchain-Powered Peer-to-Peer Framework

    • Authors: Ameni Boumaiza
    • Journal: Energies
    • Volume: 17
    • Issue: 11
    • Pages: 2473
    • Year: 2024-05-22
    • DOI: 10.3390/en17112473