Junfeng Zhao | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Junfeng Zhao | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Professor | The University of Henan University | China

Prof. Junfeng Zhao is an influential researcher in psychology whose scholarship integrates educational, developmental, health, and social psychology to address learning, adaptation, and mental health among children and adolescents. Across 98 publications, with 1,349 citations and an h-index of 26, his body of work combines rigorous empirical methods, longitudinal designs, and interdisciplinary approaches to investigate resilience, peer attachment, self-esteem, and school adaptation. He emphasizes applied outcomes measurement development, intervention design, and translation to educational practice while advancing theoretical understanding of developmental processes. A major strand of his research focuses on children affected by social disadvantages such as left-behind children, and those with sensory impairments examining risk and protective factors that shape psychological outcomes. Through multi-year tracking studies and psychometric scale evaluation, he has produced validated instruments and intervention-informed findings that clarify how family dynamics, peer relationships, and school contexts contribute to mental health trajectories. This work informs community based strategies and educational policies aimed at improving psychosocial supports for vulnerable groups. In educational psychology, his studies illuminate learning motivation, cognitive styles, learning strategies, and classroom processes, offering practical implications for curriculum design and teacher training. His research addresses early identification models for learning difficulties, the neural correlates of cognitive control and the psychological underpinnings of teacher professional identity and its influence on student well being. The portfolio demonstrates a productive mix of quantitative, qualitative, and neurophysiological methods. Methodologically, Zhao emphasizes mixed methods, longitudinal analyses, culturally sensitive measurement, and robust psychometrics strengthening the reliability and applicability of findings across contexts. His publications consistently bridge theory and practice, targeting educators, clinicians, and policymakers. The cumulative impact of his research lies in deepening understanding of how developmental mechanisms interact with social environments and in providing evidence-based frameworks for interventions that promote resilience and healthy development in children and adolescents. Overall, his work offers actionable frameworks for policy and practice.

Featured Publications

Huang, G., Qian, C., Newman-Norlund, R. D., Zhao, J., & Li, X.  Perceived stigma mediates the relationship between regional gray matter volume and aggressive behavior in children affected by parental.

Ji, L., Yu, Y., Wan, J., Zhang, Y., Zhao, J., & Chen, C. Relationship between cumulative peer risk and sense of security among adolescents: A moderated mediation model. BMC Psychology.

Wan, J., Ji, L., Wang, Z., Zhao, J., & Li, X.  Social exclusion and mental health of youths affected by parental HIV/AIDS in China: Based on a serial mediating model.

Chen, C., Wu, Q., Zhao, J., Zhao, G., Li, X., Du, H., & Chi, P. Enacted stigma influences bereavement coping among children orphaned by parental. A longitudinal study with network analysis.

Wu, J., Li, Q., Chi, P., Zhao, J., & Zhao, J. Mindfulness and well-being among socioeconomically disadvantaged college students: Roles of resilience and perceived discrimination.

Bingfei Gu | Rewards & Recognition | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Bingfei Gu | Rewards & Recognition | Research Excellence Award

Professor | The University of Zhejiang Sci-Tech University | China

Prof. Dr. Bingfei Gu is a prominent researcher in the interdisciplinary domain of digital apparel engineering, computational ergonomics, and intelligent garment technologies. With a scholarly record of 81 publications, 255 citations, and an h-index of 11, the author has built a strong research presence that spans human body modeling, fabric behavior simulation, and advanced garment design systems. Their work integrates computational methods, image processing, 3D point cloud analytics, and artificial intelligence to address long-standing challenges in apparel fit, pattern generation, body measurement accuracy, and digital clothing representation. A central focus of the author’s research is the development of precise and scalable human body measurement frameworks using hybrid scanning and imaging systems. This includes advanced classification of body shape, automated feature extraction, and individualized prototype generation for apparel design. Their studies on digital garment systems explore virtual fittings, numerical simulations of fabric drape, and biomechanics-based modeling of clothing body interaction, contributing to improved prediction of wearer comfort and performance. The author has produced influential work on garment technologies, including new algorithms for pattern adaptation, topologically consistent model reconstruction, and simulation-driven design optimization. Their research in garment virtual simulation extends into computational evaluations of ergonomics, ballistic protection mechanisms, and AI driven virtual try on methods leveraging generative diffusion models. Through collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, the author has contributed to notable advancements in industrial ergonomics, textile engineering, and digital fashion innovation. Their publications in high impact journals demonstrate a commitment to methodological rigor and practical relevance, supporting the broader transition toward intelligent apparel manufacturing, personalized garment engineering, and data-driven fashion technologies. The author’s contributions continue to shape emerging standards in digital human modeling and next-generation garment simulation.

Featured Publications

Hou, J., Lu, Y., Wang, M., Ouyang, W., Yang, Y., Zou, F., Gu, B., & Liu, Z.  A Markov Chain approach for video-based virtual try-on with denoising diffusion generative adversarial network. Knowledge Based Systems.

Jin, S., & Gu,, Production scheduling optimization of shirt component module based on standard man-hour prediction.

Sheng, X., Zhao, S., & Gu, B. Construction of shirt component module groups based on process similarity

Sun, Y., Niu, W., Chen, X., Chen, Q., Gu, B., & Liu, Y. Application of human finite element model in flexible protective products. Journal of Medical Biomechanics.

Feng, H., Sheng, X., Zhang, L., Liu, Y., & Gu, B. Color analysis of brocade from the 4th to 8th centuries driven by image based matching network modeling.

Jin, S., & Gu, B. Individualized generation of women’s prototype based on the classification of body shape.

Imran Muhammad | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Imran Muhammad | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

PostDoc | The University of Xinjiang University | China

Dr. Imran Muhammad is an accomplished researcher in advanced analytical chemistry, with a strong publication record comprising 35 scientific documents, 276 citations, and an h-index of 11. His work spans a diverse range of contemporary research fields, with a central focus on sensor technologies, analytical method development, and environmental monitoring. His expertise bridges multiple interdisciplinary domains, including fluorescent probe design, chemosensors, biosensors, polymer-based sensing platforms, computational chemistry, and catalysis. A significant portion of his research is dedicated to developing innovative sensing systems for detecting toxic environmental pollutants such as mercury ions nitroaromatics, dioxins, and heavy metals. He has made notable contributions to the design of dansyl-based fluorescent sensors, graphene oxide–based solid-phase sensing materials, and β-cyclodextrin inclusion complexes, offering enhanced selectivity, sensitivity, and environmental applicability. Providing an efficient tool for water-quality assessment. In addition to sensor development, his research extends to molecularly imprinted polymers photocatalytic nanomaterials, surface modification, solid-phase extraction, and advanced material synthesis. His studies in photocatalysis, catalytic pyrolysis of plastics, and nanostructured metal oxides contribute to sustainable technologies and environmental remediation. Dr. Muhammad’s technical skills span a broad array of analytical instruments, including Fluorescence spectroscopy, and supporting his capacity to conduct rigorous and high-impact experimental work. He also integrates computational studies to elucidate molecular interactions and sensing mechanisms, strengthening the theoretical foundation of his analytical methodologies. Through continuous publication in high-ranking journals and participation in global scientific discussions, he maintains a strong commitment to advancing analytical chemistry and environmental science, with research aimed at delivering practical, efficient, and sustainable technological solutions.

Featured Publication

Yao, N., Cai, Y., Li, J., Nulahong, A., Okitsu, Imran, M., & Ren, T. Enhanced low-temperature performance of CO₂ methanation over Ni-Y zeolite molecular sieve.

Khan, M. I., Kim, H. Y., Ali, R., & Miyazaki, S. A comparison of conventional aging and defect-assisted precipitation mechanisms in TiNiPdCu-based high-temperature shape memory alloys.

Rida, B. N., Bakhsh, N. Investigating the high-temperature oxidation of the Hf₀.₅Nb₀.₅Ta₀.₅Ti₁.₅Zr refractory high-entropy alloy. Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry.

Yifei Zhang | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Yifei Zhang | Learning & Development | Research Excellence Award

Professor | The University of Hebei University | China

Dr. Yifei Zhang is a developing scholar whose research contributions span metallurgical physical chemistry, advanced materials processing, non-destructive testing, and intelligent material characterization. With a growing academic profile supported by 13 research documents, 235 citations, and an h-index of 7, the author has established a strong foundation in studying material behavior, performance evolution, and diagnostics using both experimental and data-driven approaches. Their work in alloy systems, particularly titanium alloys produced through selective laser melting and other additive manufacturing pathways, has yielded influential findings regarding microstructural evolution, oxide film dynamics, and electrochemical performance. These studies have improved the understanding of how processing conditions affect long-term material stability, reliability, and corrosion behavior an area of increasing importance for aerospace, biomedical, and high-performance engineering applications. The author’s contributions extend to investigating surface modification and coating technologies, including the impact of residual stress on the adhesion behavior of thin films such as TiN coatings. Their insights into interfacial mechanics and coating performance support the broader development of durable protective layers and engineered surfaces. In parallel, the author has advanced methodological innovation in the field of non-destructive evaluation. By integrating acoustic emission analysis, variational mode decomposition, continuous wavelet transforms, and convolutional neural networks, their work enhances the accuracy of damage mode identification in complex composite structures and stainless steels. These integrated diagnostic frameworks offer improved capabilities for monitoring structural health, predicting failure, and optimizing material maintenance strategies. Collectively, the author’s research demonstrates a commitment to bridging materials science, machine learning, and modern diagnostic technologies. Their publications contribute to both theoretical understanding and practical solutions for evaluating and enhancing material performance. With a steadily increasing citation profile and a diverse research portfolio, the author continues to influence key developments in materials characterization, surface engineering, and intelligent non-destructive testing.

Featured Publication

Zhang, Y., Yao, Y., Li, J., et al. Effect of residual stress on adhesion behaviour of TiN coating. Bulletin of Materials Science.

Xu Xinsheng | Strategic HR Management | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Xu Xinsheng | Strategic HR Management | Research Excellence Award

Professor | The University of Shandong University of Aeronautics | China

Prof. Xinsheng Xu is an accomplished scholar whose research sits at the intersection of supply chain management, inventory theory, risk analytics, and quantitative optimization. With 34 academic documents, over 300 citations, and an h-index of 10, his scholarly impact is reflected in both the depth and breadth of his contributions to operations research and management science. His work advances understanding of decision-making under uncertainty, particularly focusing on how risk attitudes such as loss aversion and risk aversion shape procurement and ordering behavior. A significant portion of his research extends classical models such as the newsvendor framework, exploring new dimensions that incorporate backlogging, shortage penalties, fill rate considerations, opportunity loss, and advanced risk measures including Conditional Value-at-Risk. These models offer improved decision-support tools for retailers, suppliers, and logistics managers facing increasingly volatile market environments. Beyond behavioral decision models, his research also encompasses multi sourcing procurement, dual sourcing under emergency conditions, supply option contracts, supplier default risks, and portfolio purchasing strategies. He has developed analytical methods for optimizing procurement in hybrid sourcing systems, considering mismatch costs, spot market dynamics, emergent replenishment strategies, and utility maximizing approaches for risk-sensitive buyers. In parallel, Xinsheng Xu has made influential contributions to optimization theory, including bilevel programming, tri level supply chain models, smoothing techniques for penalty functions, and algorithmic strategies for constrained optimization. These theoretical developments are applied in multi-stage supply chain design, cooperative risk-sharing, and interaction programming problems. His work appears in respected journals such as International Journal of Production Economics, International Journal of Production Research, Annals of Operations Research, Industrial Management & Data Systems, Computers & Industrial Engineering, Mathematics, Discrete Dynamics in Nature and Society, and Numerical Functional Analysis and Optimization.

Featured Publications

Xu, X., Sang, S., & Lee, C. K. M. The optimal ordering decision of a retailer with a spot buying. International Journal of Production Research.

Xu, X., & Lee, C. K. M. Portfolio procurement with an option contract and spot market. International Journal of General Systems.

Sang, S., Xu, X., & Lee, C. K. M. A purchaser’s optimal procurement strategy under emergencies. International Journal of General Systems. Published online.

Chao-Feng Shih | Leadership Development | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Chao-Feng Shih | Leadership Development | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof | The University of  Central Police University | Taiwan

Dr. Chao-Feng Shih is a scholar and engineer specializing in marine engineering, maritime safety, smart port technologies, and computational mechanics. His academic background and research trajectory focus on advancing hydrodynamics, nonlinear sloshing analysis, marine risk assessment, and intelligent port-based monitoring systems. He has developed strong expertise in integrating engineering theory with modern computational tools to address complex maritime challenges and enhance operational safety in port and offshore environments. His doctoral research applied a modified Lie-Group algorithm to nonlinear sloshing problems, contributing new numerical strategies for analyzing fluid structure interactions in confined and dynamic marine systems. Dr. Shih’s broader research in nonlinear hydrodynamics includes studies on sloshing suppression using baffle designs, meshless methods for heat transfer simulation, and explicit/implicit Lie-Group numerical schemes. His work has been published in reputable indexed journals, addressing topics such as underwater vehicle acoustics, two-dimensional tank sloshing behavior, and Trefftz-based multi-scale methods. Beyond theoretical contributions, Dr. Shih’s research intersects with applied maritime safety and smart harbor development. He has played key roles in projects involving 5G-enabled port monitoring, based inspection systems, and driven maritime applications. His recent works explore remote sensing for port operations, edge-computing frameworks for drone communications, and AI-enhanced solutions for underwater environmental monitoring. These efforts highlight his commitment to integrating emerging technologies with marine engineering to support safer, more efficient, and data-driven maritime operations. His academic publications also include studies on fire prevention in cargo vessels, unmanned underwater vehicle applications, and marine safety risk assessment. Future research directions involve developing AI assisted maritime training systems, simulation-based digital twin platforms, autonomous navigation technologies, and advanced predictive models for port-level risk management. Through this multidisciplinary research portfolio, Dr. Shih continues to contribute to innovation across marine engineering, intelligent maritime systems, and computational analysis.

Featured Publications

Tan, C.-C., Shih, C.-F., Shen, J.-H., & Chen, Y.-W.  A time–space numerical procedure for solving the sideways heat conduction problem.

Chen, Y.-W., Pan, C.-C., Lin, Y.-H., Shih, C.-F., Shen, J.-H., & Chang, C.-M. Acoustic field radiation prediction and verification of underwater vehicles under a free surface. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering

Arega Debu | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member

Mr. Arega Debu | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member

Lecturer| The University of  Dire Dawa University | Ethiopia

Mr. Arega Debu an emerging researcher in the fields of thermal engineering, renewable energy systems, and mechanical design. His academic work primarily centers on developing sustainable solutions that address critical resource challenges, with a particular focus on accessible water purification technologies for underserved communities. His master’s research explored solar desalination as a practical and energy-efficient avenue to provide clean water in remote regions. By investigating system performance, thermal behavior, and energy optimization, his work contributes to the broader field of solar-driven water treatment technologies and aligns with global efforts toward sustainable development. His research background also includes mechanical system design, with particular interest in dynamic systems and mobility solutions. Earlier academic projects involving suspension systems demonstrate his strong analytical capabilities, design proficiency, and commitment to engineering innovation. These foundational studies reflect a wider interest in mechanical structures and the integration of engineering principles for improved performance, efficiency, and user-centered design. He possesses strong technical skills that support his research activities, including proficiency in major mechanical engineering software tools such as SolidWorks and ANSYS for simulation, modeling, and design analysis. In addition, his training in computer hardware systems and digital tools enhances his ability to integrate technology-driven approaches into engineering problem-solving. His growing competency in digital productivity tools and technical communication further complements his interdisciplinary research focus. Beyond technical competence, the author maintains an interest in emerging renewable technologies, heat transfer applications, and sustainable engineering solutions. His research vision centers on advancing affordable, practical, and community-oriented engineering innovations particularly those that enhance water security, promote renewable energy adoption, and support long-term socio-economic development. Through continued inquiry and collaboration, he aims to expand contributions to fields such as thermal systems engineering, solar technologies, and applied mechanical design.

Featured Publication

Debu, A. A., Adem, K. D., & Nigussie, S. G. Design and thermal performance investigation of solar-powered water purifying system for Dire Dawa rural area. Solar Energy Advances.

Zemenu Tadesse Adimas | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member

Mr. Zemenu Tadesse Adimas | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member

Lecturer And Researcher | The University of  Bahir Dar University | Ethiopia

Mr. Zemenu Tadesse Adimas is an emerging researcher in the fields of Food Engineering and Biotechnology, with a strong scholarly focus on food product development, formulation, and natural preservation strategies. His academic background in Food Technology and Food Process Engineering has provided a solid foundation for exploring innovative, sustainable, and science-driven approaches to enhancing food quality and safety. He is particularly interested in the utilization of natural preservatives, improvement of indigenous foods, and optimization of storage technologies to reduce post-harvest losses. His research contributions span various critical topics in food science, including shelf-life extension, food processing, bioactive compounds, and the integration of traditional and modern preservation methods. His published works demonstrate both depth and breadth, covering microbial stability, physicochemical property optimization, sensory quality enhancement, hermetic storage systems, and the use of plant-based bioactive compounds for grain protection. These publications appear in reputable international journals such as Cogent Food & Agriculture, Applied Food Research, Heliyon, and the Poly Journal of Engineering and Technology. A notable portion of his work examines the effects of processing conditions such as temperature, time, and formulation ratios on the quality attributes of food and beverage products. His studies on cinnamon extract for juice preservation, roasting parameters for plant beverages, and flour blending for biscuit production showcase his commitment to developing practical, scalable solutions for industry and community-level food systems. His scientific interests also extend to post-harvest technology, where he has investigated hermetic storage methods to minimize losses in staple crops such as maize and wheat. Through systematic experimental design, analytical evaluation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, he contributes to improving food security and promoting value-added food innovations. Across his research portfolio, Zemenu emphasizes evidence-based problem solving, sustainability, and the enhancement of traditional knowledge through modern food science techniques.

Featured Publications

Abera, B. D., Adimas, Z. T., Adimas, M. A., Alemayehu, A. J., & Geletu, M. G. Effect of blending ratios of roasted and unroasted lupine flour on the physicochemical properties, antinutritional factors, and organoleptic qualities of wheat–lupine composite bread. Applied Food Research.

Alemayehu, A. J., Adimas, Z. T., & Abera, B. D. The effect of sugar concentration and storage time on the physicochemical, microbial, and sensory properties of ginger drink. Applied Food Research.

Adimas, Z. T., & Abera, B. D. Effect of roasting time and temperature on the physicochemical and sensory properties of plant beverage from groundnut. Applied Food Research.

Adimas, Z. T., Adimas, M. A., & Abera, B. D.  Plant-based bioactive compounds for grain storage: A comprehensive review. Cogent Food & Agriculture.

Tolasa Tamasgen | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member

Assist. Prof. Dr. Tolasa Tamasgen | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Editorial Board Member 

Course Instructor and Researcher | The University of Bonga University | Ethiopia

Dr. Tolasa Tamasgen Hirpha, is a dedicated scholar in Condensed Matter optical properties, nanostructures, and computational physics. His academic pathway includes a in Condensed Matter Physics, complemented by strong interdisciplinary grounding through master’s degrees in Physics and Project Management. His research interests bridge fundamental physics and applied materials science, with a particular emphasis on nanocomposites, thin films, electronic structure calculations, and field-enhancement phenomena. His scholarly work demonstrates strong competence in both theoretical modeling and materials characterization. Publications authored or co-authored address critical topics such as the optical and structural behavior of PbS thin films, local field enhancement mechanisms in spheroidal core-shell nanocomposites, nonlinear optical responses, and the impact of interfacial layers on enhancement factors in metal–dielectric systems. He has also contributed to computational investigations of bulk and monolayer using Density Functional Theory, reflecting his ability to apply modern simulation tools to explore electronic and optical properties. Additional interdisciplinary research includes fault-tolerant control systems for electrical machines, highlighting versatility beyond physics-focused domains. Proficient he integrates computational analysis with high-quality scientific documentation. His research strengths include data interpretation, modeling, simulation, and the dissemination of findings through peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations. His academic foundation and research record demonstrate a continuous commitment to advancing materials science, physics-based modeling, and interdisciplinary scientific inquiry. He remains strongly interested in further integrating project management principles into scientific research methodologies to enhance applied outcomes and broaden the real-world impact of theoretical concepts.

Featured Publications

Hirpha, T. T., Gurmesa, G. S., Ali, B. M., & Aga, G. S. Investigation of the electronic and optical properties of bulk and monolayer AlxGa(1−x)N structure using density functional theory.

Chehhat, A., Chouchane, N., Si-Ameur, M., Rebai, B., Larguech, S., Hirpha, T. T., & Menni, Y. Investigation of compressible internal flow mechanisms and thermofluid interactions in centrifugal compressors through advanced hub-to-shroud computational fluid dynamics for diesel engine turbocharger performance.

Bellali, B., Makhloufi, S., Belbekri, T., Alkhafaji, M. A., Hirpha, T. T., Bousserhane, I. K., & Menni, Y. Active fault-tolerant control for asynchronous machines using EKF-based fault estimation and 3-H-bridge inverter mitigation of ITSCs.

Hirpha, T. T., Bergaga, G. D., Ali, B. M., & Gebre, S. S. Investigation of optical bistability in spheroidal core–shell nanocomposites with passive and active dielectric cores.

Hirpha, T. T., Bergaga, G. D., Ali, B. M., & Gebre, S. S.  Local field enhancement factor of spheroidal core–shell nanocomposites with passive and active dielectric cores.

Beáta Šofranková | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Beáta Šofranková | HR Technology and Digital Transformation | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | The University of Presov| Slovakia

Mrs. Beáta Šofranková, is a researcher in the field of management whose scholarly work centers on digital transformation, competitiveness, economic performance, and sustainable development across European countries. Her research integrates economic-mathematical reasoning with modern managerial perspectives, providing a multidimensional understanding of how digitalization and innovation impact institutional performance and long-term economic resilience. Her scientific portfolio consists of 16 published research documents, collectively cited 235 times, resulting in an h-index of 8. These metrics reflect a steady scholarly influence and demonstrate the relevance of her work within the fields of management, economics, and regional development. Her publications frequently address the evolving conditions of European economies, exploring strategic determinants of competitiveness, the role of digital technologies in economic growth, and the implications of sustainable development frameworks on national and regional performance indicators. She has contributed significantly to research initiatives through her involvement in major national grant projects, where she has designed, coordinated, or supported scientific tasks focused on digital readiness, innovation performance, and socio-economic transformation. Her participation in  projects reflects sustained engagement in evidence-based research aligned with national priorities and international academic standards. These projects have produced theoretical and empirical outputs that inform management practices, public policy, and academic debate. Her work also incorporates a strong comparative perspective, drawing on interdisciplinary frameworks that connect economic modelling, management theory, and sustainability science. She frequently collaborates within research teams exploring emerging digital trends, performance analytics, and the competitiveness challenges faced by European economies in the context of global transformations. Through her publication record, research leadership, and active contribution to national scientific projects, her scholarly profile demonstrates a consistent commitment to advancing knowledge about digital transformation and sustainable economic development. Her research output continues to support academic, institutional, and policy-oriented discussions within the broader European research community.

Featured Publication

Kiselakova, D., Sofrankova, B., Gombar, M., & Matijova, M. Modelling the impact of innovation performance on digital competitiveness: The key role of innovation and technologies. Asian Economic and Financial Review,