Daon Hwang | Clinical Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Daon Hwang | Clinical Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Daon Hwang,  Depatment of Physical Therapy, Korea Natiional University of Transportation,  South Korea.

Daon Hwang is a dedicated physical therapist and Ph.D. candidate at Korea National University of Transportation, with a strong academic and clinical foundation in adult neurological rehabilitation. His research portfolio includes six completed projects and six peer-reviewed publications, focusing on stroke rehabilitation, gait analysis, neurorehabilitation, and assistive device development. With a practical background in clinical therapy and consulting experience in device usability, he effectively bridges the gap between research and real-world application. His active involvement in professional organizations further enriches his contributions to the rehabilitation field.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Daon Hwang began his academic journey with a deep interest in the human body and its recovery mechanisms, leading him to pursue a career in physical therapy. He earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Physical Therapy from Korea National University of Transportation (KNUT). His early academic years were marked by diligence and a curiosity-driven approach to the complexities of neurological rehabilitation. His strong academic performance and growing passion for evidence-based practice set the stage for his current doctoral research.

💼 Professional Endeavors

As a licensed physical therapist, Daon Hwang has accumulated meaningful clinical experience, particularly in the field of adult neurological rehabilitation. His hands-on work with stroke patients has fueled his commitment to integrating practical therapy with innovative research. His current role as a Ph.D. candidate at KNUT allows him to bridge clinical practice with academic exploration, where he also provides consultancy on assistive devices. Daon continues to evolve both as a practitioner and as a scholar in the rehabilitation sciences.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Daon’s primary research focuses include stroke rehabilitation, neurorehabilitation, gait analysis, and the development of assistive technologies. He has successfully completed six research projects, exploring diverse aspects such as proprioceptive training and the usability of rehabilitation devices. His scholarly output includes six peer-reviewed journal publications—two in SCI-indexed journals and four in KCI-indexed journals. These works contribute to enhancing therapeutic protocols and improving patients’ functional outcomes, particularly in post-stroke recovery.

🧪 Research Innovation and Impact

Daon’s innovative contributions are evident in his work with assistive device usability, having collaborated on three industry consulting projects to improve device design and user experience for stroke patients. His research has not only advanced academic knowledge but also offered real-world applicability in clinical settings. His studies often highlight the integration of biomechanical analysis and rehabilitation techniques to create more personalized and effective interventions.

🏅 Accolades and Professional Involvement

While Daon Hwang has not yet published books or acquired patents, his membership in several esteemed professional bodies reflects his dedication to continued learning and contribution to the field. He is an active member of the Korean Academy of Orthopedic Manipulative Physical Therapy, the Korean Physical Therapy Association, and the Korea Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Association. Through these affiliations, he stays at the forefront of developments in physical therapy and rehabilitation science.

🌍 Influence and Collaboration

Though he has not formally reported collaborative research projects, Daon’s consulting work and clinical partnerships demonstrate a growing sphere of influence. His findings are increasingly referenced by peers and practitioners, particularly in the areas of gait mechanics and neuro-motor rehabilitation. His dual role in academia and practice ensures his research remains grounded in clinical relevance.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Daon Hwang aspires to further integrate technology with neurorehabilitation strategies, aiming to develop more efficient, adaptive tools for stroke survivors. His doctoral work and future post-doctoral goals center on refining rehabilitative methods through data-driven research and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a vision of contributing meaningfully to global rehabilitation science, Daon is poised to leave a lasting legacy of innovation, empathy, and excellence in physical therapy.

Publication

  • Title: Usability Test for an Over-Ground Walking Assistance Robotic Device Based on the Mecanum Wheel
    Authors: Daon Hwang; EunPyeong Choi; Ki Hun Cho
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Changes in Balance Ability, Physical Performance and Lower Extremity Proprioception according to the Compression Stockings in University Students
    Authors: Daon Hwang; Hyeong Gyu Kim; Na Young Kang; Eun Seo Park; Hyun Young Yoo; Jun Young Lee; Seo Yeong Jang; Cheol Woo Hwang; Ki Hun Cho
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Usability Test for a Cane-Combined Weight Support Feedback Device
    Authors: Daon Hwang; Ki Hun Cho
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Usability Test for Motion Tracking Gait Assistive Walker
    Authors: Daon Hwang; Ki Hun Cho
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: The Effect of Mirror Therapy on the Balance, Gait and Motor Function in Patients with Subacute Stroke: A Pilot Study
    Authors: Min-Su Song; Soon-Hee Kang
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: Effect of Mirror Therapy on the Balance, Gait and Motor Function in Patients with Subacute Stroke
    Authors: Min-Su Song; Soon-Hee Kang
    Year: 2021

 

Conclusion

Driven by a passion for enhancing recovery outcomes in stroke patients, Daon Hwang has positioned himself as a promising scholar and practitioner in the field of physical therapy. His blend of academic rigor, clinical expertise, and innovation in assistive technologies reflects a career marked by meaningful impact and ongoing growth. As he advances toward completing his Ph.D., his work continues to shape the future of neurorehabilitation—promoting evidence-based practices and contributing to patient-centered healthcare innovations.

Hao Lai | Clinical Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hao Lai | Clinical Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hao Lai, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China.

Dr. Hao Lai is a distinguished cardiovascular surgeon and researcher, currently serving as Chief Physician at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University. With over 20 years of clinical expertise, he specializes in aortic and cardiovascular surgery. His academic achievements include a Ph.D. in Surgery from Fudan University and significant contributions to the study of epigenetic mechanisms in thoracic aortic dissection. As a principal investigator of nationally funded projects and co-author of influential publications, Dr. Lai combines scientific rigor with clinical innovation. He has also played a key role in medical education and device development through industry collaboration.

Profile

Scopus

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Hao Lai began his academic journey with a strong foundation in medical sciences, culminating in a Ph.D. in Surgery from the prestigious Fudan University. His early academic pursuits were marked by a deep interest in cardiovascular physiology and surgical intervention, which later matured into a specialized focus on aortic diseases. His time as a doctoral candidate not only equipped him with rigorous scientific training but also ignited his lifelong commitment to solving complex clinical problems through research.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as Chief Physician at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Dr. Hao Lai has accumulated over two decades of extensive clinical experience in cardiovascular and aortic surgery. His professional trajectory reflects a seamless integration of surgical excellence with academic leadership. At Zhongshan Hospital, a leading institution in China, he has spearheaded several clinical programs aimed at enhancing patient outcomes in cases of thoracic aortic dissection and other high-risk cardiovascular conditions.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Lai’s research centers around the epigenetic mechanisms underlying thoracic aortic dissection, with a particular focus on histone modification and DNA methylation. He is the Principal Investigator of a major research project funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, which explores the role of H3K36me3 histone modification and DNMT3B-mediated gene body methylation in the pathogenesis of aortic dissection. His scientific efforts bridge molecular pathology with clinical implications, offering new perspectives on the diagnosis and treatment of life-threatening vascular disorders.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

A respected voice in cardiovascular medicine, Dr. Hao Lai has co-authored numerous influential articles in high-impact journals such as Cardiovascular Research and Advanced Science. His h-index of 18, as listed on Scopus, reflects his consistent scholarly output and the wide academic acknowledgment of his work. In addition, his authorship of the textbook Practical Surgery (3rd Edition), published by People’s Medical Publishing House, stands as a testament to his educational contributions to the next generation of Chinese surgeons.

🧪 Impact and Innovation

Dr. Lai’s research has made a tangible impact on the understanding and treatment of aortic diseases. His investigation into the epigenetic regulation of vascular pathology has opened new avenues for targeted therapies. Moreover, his collaboration with MicroPort Endovascular MedTech demonstrates his commitment to translating research findings into real-world applications, particularly in the development and refinement of endovascular surgical devices.

🌍 Influence and Collaboration

Beyond his direct research and surgical contributions, Dr. Lai’s influence extends into collaborative domains, both nationally and internationally. His leadership in high-level research grants, clinical trials, and industrial partnerships positions him as a central figure in the evolving landscape of cardiovascular surgery. His collaborative spirit fosters innovation and promotes cross-disciplinary dialogue, essential in today’s complex medical research environment.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Hao Lai continues his distinguished career, his legacy is being shaped not only by his surgical accomplishments but also by his contributions to medical science. His ongoing projects are likely to further clarify the molecular landscape of aortic diseases and inspire new therapeutic strategies. Looking ahead, Dr. Lai is poised to remain at the forefront of cardiovascular innovation, committed to improving patient care through a synthesis of research, education, and clinical practice.

Publication

 

Title: Prevalence and predictors of left atrial thrombus in patients with rheumatic atrial fibrillation undergoing cardiac surgery: a cross-sectional study
Authors: J. Cui, Y. Zhang, Y. Wang, Q. Ji, C. Wang
Year: 2025


Title: A novel open-vascular single-branched stent graft in total arch repair of type A aortic dissection one-year results of a prospective multicenter randomized controlled study
Authors: J. Gu, W. Zhang, L. Kang, H. Lai, C. Wang
Year: 2025


Title: Fibroblast Activation Protein Acts as a Biomarker for Monitoring ECM Remodeling During Aortic Aneurysm via 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET Imaging
Authors: C. Hu, H. Tan, Y. Zhang, X. Chen, L. Wang
Year: 2025


Title: Mitochondrial NAD+ deficiency in vascular smooth muscle impairs collagen III turnover to trigger thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: J. Zhang, Y. Tang, S. Zhang, K. Zhu, W. Zhang
Year: 2025


Title: Correcting mitochondrial loss mitigates NOTCH1-related aortopathy in mice
Authors: Y. Tang, J. Zhang, Y. Fang, Y. Xu, W. Zhang
Year: 2025


Title: Exploration of 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/MR in Chronic Type B Aortic Dissection
Authors: C. Hu, Y. Zhang, S. Qiu, H. Shi, L. Wang
Year: 2025


Title: Effects of postoperative glucocorticoids on mitigation of organ dysfunction in patients with type A aortic dissection: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: M. Luo, J. Luo, X. Xu, G. Tu, Z. Luo
Year: 2024


Title: Therapeutic results of three-dimensional aortic valve anatomic repair for regurgitant bicuspid aortic valve
Authors: J. Li, C. Wang, Z. Zuo, W. Ding, T. Hong
Year: 2024


Title: 68Ga-FAPI-04 Positron Emission Tomography/Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Assessing Ascending Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: C. Hu, H. Tan, Y. Zhang, H. Lai, L. Wang
Year: 2024


Title: Sex-based outcomes after thoracic endovascular aortic repair: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Y. Zhang, Y. Zhang, Y. Wang, L. Wang, Q. Ji
Year: 2025

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Hao Lai’s career represents a powerful blend of surgical precision, scientific insight, and academic leadership. His work has advanced the understanding of aortic diseases at the molecular level while improving surgical outcomes for patients. As he continues to mentor, innovate, and lead research at the intersection of epigenetics and cardiovascular pathology, Dr. Lai’s contributions are set to leave a lasting legacy in both clinical practice and medical science.

 

 

Noha Ibrahim | Neuroplacentology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Noha Ibrahim | Neuroplacentology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Noha Ibrahim, HSE, Ireland.

Noha Ibrahim’s journey from her early academic excellence to becoming a leading psychiatrist reflects her dedication to medicine and mental health. Her extensive experience across multiple psychiatric subspecialties, coupled with her commitment to research and education, has made a significant impact in the field. Her expertise in neuropsychiatry and autism spectrum disorders, along with her contributions to psychotherapy and mental health advocacy, highlights her influential role in psychiatric care.

Profile

Orcid

✨ Early Academic Pursuits ✨

Noha Ibrahim’s academic journey began at Khartoum International Preparatory School (KIPS), Sudan, where she laid the foundation for her future in medicine. Demonstrating exceptional promise, she pursued her undergraduate studies at the National Ribat University in Khartoum, earning her Medicine and Surgery Bachelor’s Degree in 2008. During her studies, her dedication to research and academic excellence was recognized when she was awarded the Best National Medical Student Research accolade in 2007. This early recognition highlighted her potential and set the stage for an impactful career in psychiatry.

🏥 Professional Endeavors 🏥

With over 11 years of experience in psychiatry, Noha Ibrahim has contributed significantly to multiple subspecialties, including General Adult Psychiatry, Liaison Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), Rehabilitation, Intellectual Disability, Neuropsychiatry, and Adult ADHD. Her rigorous training led her to achieve the Certificate of Satisfactory Completion of Specialist Training (CSCST) in General Adult Psychiatry with a focus on academic neuropsychiatry in January 2024 from the College of Psychiatry in Ireland (COPI). Noha’s professional journey reflects her unwavering commitment to advancing mental health care through clinical expertise and continuous learning.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus 📚

Throughout her career, Noha Ibrahim has remained actively engaged in research and clinical education. Her passion for academia led her to complete a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences in 2022, followed by a Master’s in Clinical Education at the University of Galway in 2023. She has been extensively trained in Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) since 2020 and Autism Clinical Interview for Adults (ACIA) in 2024. Noha’s research interests focus on neuropsychiatry, autism spectrum disorders, and the application of structured therapeutic models in clinical practice, ensuring that her contributions extend beyond patient care into shaping the future of psychiatric education and training.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Recognized for her excellence in both clinical and academic psychiatry, Noha Ibrahim has achieved multiple prestigious memberships and registrations. She has been a Member of the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland (MCPsychI) since 2020, an active member of the Irish Medical Council since 2013, and has maintained her Sudanese Medical Council registration since 2008. Her research excellence was acknowledged as early as 2007 when she was honored as the Best National Medical Student Researcher, an award that emphasized her dedication to advancing medical knowledge.

🧠 Impact and Influence 🧠

Beyond her clinical practice, Noha Ibrahim has played an instrumental role in advancing mental health awareness and education. She has provided psychotherapy using Cognitive Analytical Therapy (CAT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to patients with complex psychiatric needs. Additionally, her commitment to community mental health was evident when she facilitated Deciders Skills courses for teenagers in CAMHS, Co. Clare, in 2016, equipping young individuals with essential coping strategies. Her dedication to patient-centered care and education has made a lasting impact on both her colleagues and the patients she serves.

📝 Legacy and Future Contributions 📝

As a distinguished professional in the field of psychiatry, Noha Ibrahim continues to shape the future of mental health services through her expertise and research. With her extensive experience in neuropsychiatry and autism spectrum disorders, she aims to further develop specialized diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that can enhance patient care. Her contributions to psychiatric education and training will leave a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of mental health professionals. With her dual Sudanese-Irish background, Noha represents a bridge between diverse medical communities, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field of psychiatry.

 

Publication

Title: Examining the association between placental malperfusion assessed by histopathological examination and child and adolescent neurodevelopment: a systematic review
Author(s): Noha Ibrahim, Sydni A. Weissgold, Lucy Brink, Ibtihal Mahgoub, Benjamin Richard Carter, Vaheshta Sethna, Hein Odendaal
Year: 2025

 

💪 Conclusion 💪

Through years of dedication, clinical expertise, and research, Noha Ibrahim has established herself as a highly respected psychiatrist and educator. Her impact on mental health care, particularly in neuropsychiatry, is profound, and her future contributions will continue to shape the landscape of psychiatric education and patient care. With her unwavering commitment to innovation and compassionate care, she remains a driving force in advancing the field of psychiatry for years to come.

 

Sunita Pokhrel Bhattarai | Cognitive | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sunita Pokhrel Bhattarai | Cognitive | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sunita Pokhrel, Bhattarai Ohio State University, United States.

Dr. Sunita Pokhrel Bhattarai, Ph.D., RN, is a distinguished nursing scholar and practitioner with a remarkable academic and professional journey. Her career began with an exceptional academic foundation in nursing, supported by prestigious scholarships. She transitioned seamlessly from clinical excellence in Nepal to advanced research and education in the global arena. Her doctoral research at the University of Rochester, focused on innovative methods for diagnosing acute heart failure, underscores her contributions to cardiovascular nursing. Beyond clinical practice, Sunita has excelled in academia, research coordination, and manuscript review, emphasizing her influence in the global nursing and healthcare community. Her accolades, including diversity and travel grants, reflect her dedication to excellence and equity in healthcare.

Profile

Scholar

🩺 Early Academic Pursuits: A Foundation of Excellence

Sunita Pokhrel Bhattarai, Ph.D., RN, began her academic journey with an unwavering commitment to healthcare and nursing education. From earning her Proficiency Certificate in Nursing on a full government scholarship in Nepal to completing her Bachelor’s in Nursing with a specialization in Community Health, Sunita demonstrated a dedication to academic excellence. Her early research on the knowledge and consequences of teenage marriage in Nepal set the stage for her future pursuits. This strong foundation was further reinforced through her Master’s studies in Emergency and Critical Care Nursing under the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, where she explored advanced cardiac life support knowledge among critical care nurses.

💼 Professional Endeavors: Leadership in Nursing Practice and Education

Sunita’s professional trajectory reflects a remarkable blend of clinical expertise and academic leadership. She served as a Registered Nurse in Nepal’s premier institutions, including Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre, where she specialized in cardiac care. Transitioning into academia, she became a Nursing Lecturer at Purbanchan University, imparting her knowledge to future nurses. These roles enriched her understanding of healthcare delivery and education, enabling her to contribute effectively to the global nursing community.

🔬 Contributions to Cardiovascular Research: Bridging Practice and Science

Driven by a passion for advancing cardiovascular care, Sunita’s research focuses on acute heart failure and innovative diagnostic approaches. Her doctoral research at the University of Rochester aimed to estimate left ventricular ejection fraction using ECG, a novel contribution to acute heart failure management. Her involvement in multidisciplinary projects, such as investigating the optimal timing for coronary angiography, highlights her ability to bridge clinical practice and scientific inquiry. Her research not only addresses critical clinical questions but also emphasizes the importance of evidence-based solutions in nursing.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition: Celebrating a Trailblazer

Sunita’s outstanding contributions have been recognized with numerous awards and grants. Notable honors include the Presidential Stronger as One Diversity Award from the University of Rochester and the Ireta Neumann Scholarship for International Nurses. Her achievements underscore her dedication to fostering diversity and excellence in nursing. Travel grants from esteemed organizations like the American Heart Association and the International Society for Computerized Electrocardiology further reflect her active participation in the global research community.

🌍 Impact and Influence: Advancing Global Health Equity

Sunita’s work extends beyond research and practice to address disparities in healthcare delivery. With a keen interest in self-care, implementation science, and healthcare discrepancies, she aims to enhance patient outcomes and equity in access to care. Her contributions as a research lead coordinator and manuscript reviewer illustrate her influence in shaping nursing science. Through mentorship and scholarly collaboration, she continues to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

🧠 Legacy of Expertise: Pioneering Big Data and Applied Statistics

Sunita’s proficiency in big data analysis and applied statistics distinguishes her as a thought leader in nursing research. By leveraging these tools, she has contributed to clinical trials and comprehensive literature reviews that inform evidence-based practice. Her role as an abstract reviewer and researcher underscores her commitment to advancing knowledge in cardiovascular nursing and beyond.

🌟 Future Contributions: A Vision for Transformative Healthcare

With her multifaceted expertise and global perspective, Sunita is poised to drive innovation in healthcare. Her dedication to improving acute heart failure diagnostics, addressing healthcare disparities, and mentoring emerging scholars positions her as a transformative figure in nursing science. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, scholarship, and a passion for improving lives.

📚 Publications

  • Delays in door-to-diuretic time and 1-year mortality among patients with heart failure
    Authors: DJ Dzikowicz, SP Bhattarai, J Ng, AL Zemanek, MG Carey
    Year: 2022

 

  • Signs and Symptoms Clusters Among Patients With Acute Heart Failure: A Correlational Study
    Authors: S Pokhrel Bhattarai, DJ Dzikowicz, MG Carey
    Year: 2023

 

  • Integrative review of electrocardiographic characteristics in patients with reduced, mildly reduced, and preserved heart failure
    Authors: SP Bhattarai, RC Block, Y Xue, DH Rodriguez, RG Tucker, MG Carey
    Year: 2024

 

  • Knowledge and practices on prevention of coronary artery diseases in Nepalese community: A cross-sectional from five different cities in Nepal
    Authors: SP Bhattarai, P Neupane
    Year: 2018

 

  • Estimating Ejection Fraction from the 12 Lead ECG among Patients with Acute Heart Failure
    Authors: SP Bhattarai, DJ Dzikowicz, Y Xue, R Block, RG Tucker, S Bhandari, …
    Year: 2024

 

  • Door-to-Diuretic Time is related to length of hospital stay independent of diuretic dose among acute decompensated heart failure patients
    Authors: DJ Dzikowicz, M Aktas, SP Bhattarai, L Chen, MG Carey
    Year: 2025

 

  • Estimating very low ejection fraction from the 12 Lead ECG among patients with acute heart failure
    Authors: SP Bhattarai, DJ Dzikowicz, Y Xue, R Block, RG Tucker, S Bhandari, …
    Year: 2025

 

  • Association Between Serum Albumin and the Length of Hospital Stay Among Patients With Acute Heart Failure
    Authors: S Pokhrel Bhattarai, DJ Dzikowicz, MG Carey
    Year: 2025

 

  • Estimating ejection fraction from the 12 lead ECG in acute heart failure
    Authors: SB Pokhrel, DJ Dzikowicz, S Bhandari, VE Boulware, MG Carey
    Year: 2024

 

  • Interaction Between Door To Diuretic Time And Dosing As A Predictor Of Mortality And Readmission
    Authors: D Dzikowicz, SP Bhattarai, L Chen, MG Carey
    Year: 2024

 

Conclusion

Dr. Sunita Pokhrel Bhattarai’s journey illustrates the power of knowledge, resilience, and a commitment to improving healthcare. By integrating clinical expertise, innovative research, and global collaboration, she has advanced the field of cardiovascular nursing and inspired future generations. Her ongoing work promises to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, enhance patient outcomes, and drive transformative change in nursing science. Sunita’s legacy is one of impact, innovation, and an enduring dedication to the betterment of global health.