Selene Mezzalira | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Selene Mezzalira | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

University of Basilicata, University of Naples Federico II | Italy

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Selene Mezzalira began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from the University of Padua, graduating cum laude. She then completed a Master’s degree in Philosophical Sciences with a thesis on Kant’s role in neuroscience. Her academic excellence was further highlighted by a Diploma of Excellence in Moral Sciences from the Scuola Galileiana. She later earned two PhDs—one in Philosophy (2016) and another in Clinical Psychology (2018) from Ryokan College, Los Angeles, focusing on trauma and temporal experience. Her interdisciplinary formation also includes a Master's in Urban Security and Violence Prevention.

🧠 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Mezzalira currently serves as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Naples Federico II on a project focused on intersectional stigma and health equity for LGBT individuals. She is also a contract lecturer at the University of Basilicata, covering clinical, general, and dynamic psychology, and has taught “Psychology of Violence” at IUSVE. She has worked on national projects involving cognitive stress and human-robot interaction, and has held roles as a researcher and lecturer across institutions like the University of Calabria and the University of Padua.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Mezzalira’s research spans clinical psychology, psychoanalysis, trauma studies, LGBTQIA+ mental health, minority stress, and phenomenological philosophy. She is recognized for her work on gender diversity, health disparities, and psychological trauma. Notably, she contributed to projects like “U4Inclusion” and “Equity Health Project,” promoting inclusion and addressing sexual harassment in academic settings. Her work often employs mixed-method and systematic review approaches, aiming to inform evidence-based clinical practices.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

In 2024, Dr. Mezzalira won First Prize in the National Scientific Dissemination Competition "Kerit-LC" for her book "Neuroscienze e fenomenologia. Il caso dei neuroni specchio." She is an active reviewer for several top-tier journals such as Frontiers in Psychiatry, Clinical Psychology Review, and Journal of Homosexuality, and also serves as a guest editor and proofreader for the Mediterranean Journal of Clinical Psychology.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Mezzalira's work is cited internationally and presented at high-profile conferences, including EPATH, SRCD, AIP, and SPR-IAG. Her systematic reviews and original studies are influencing policy and clinical practices in mental health, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. Through translations and curations of foundational texts in cognitive science and phenomenology, she also bridges academic research with public knowledge.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a foundation in both philosophical inquiry and clinical psychology, Dr. Mezzalira is a rare academic voice fusing deep theoretical insight with empirical rigor. Her future promises continued exploration of psychological trauma, queer health, and interdisciplinary dialogue between philosophy and therapy. She is poised to lead meaningful changes in mental health education, gender-informed care, and inclusive academic structures.

Publications


📄  Perceived Stigma and Quality of Life in Binary and Nonbinary/Queer Transgender Individuals in Italy: The Mediating Roles of Patient–Provider Relationship Quality and Barriers to Care
Authors: Selene Mezzalira, Gianluca Cruciani, Maria Quintigliano, Vincenzo Bochicchio, Nicola Carone, Cristiano Scandurra
 Journal: European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education
Year: 2025


📄 Anticipated Stigma and Depression in Italian Bisexual Emerging Adults: The Mediating Role of Emotion Regulation and Resilience
 Authors: Cristiano Scandurra, Selene Mezzalira, Pasquale Dolce, Nicola Carone, Vincenzo Bochicchio
Journal: Psychology & Sexuality
Year: 2025


📄 Trans in Treatment: A Mixed-Method Systematic Review on the Psychotherapeutic Experiences of Transgender and Gender Diverse People
Authors: Selene Mezzalira, Nicola Carone, Vincenzo Bochicchio, Sofia Villani, Gianluca Cruciani, Maria Quintigliano, Cristiano Scandurra
Journal: Research in Psychotherapy: Psychopathology, Process and Outcome
Year: 2025


📄 Minority Stress and Mental Health in European Transgender and Gender Diverse People: A Systematic Review of Quantitative Studies
Authors: F. Mezza, Selene Mezzalira, R. Pizzo, N.M. Maldonato, V. Bochicchio, C. Scandurra
 Journal: Clinical Psychology Review
Year: 2024


📄  Affective Regulation and Trait Anger Personalities: The Buffering Effect of the Companion Animal Bond
Authors: Vincenzo Bochicchio, Cristiano Scandurra, Pasquale Dolce, Anna Scandurra, Maria Francesca Freda, Selene Mezzalira
Journal: European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education
Year: 2024


Yash Brahmbhatt | Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Yash Brahmbhatt | Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Tufts University School of Dental Medicine | United States

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Yash Brahmbhatt’s journey in education began with the International Baccalaureate® Career-related Programme at Atlantic High School, where he laid a solid foundation in health sciences and leadership. He pursued a Bachelor of Science in Public Health at Nova Southeastern University, complementing it with minors in Experiential Leadership and Pre-Health. His academic journey reached new heights when he enrolled in the Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) program at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM), where he is on track to graduate in May 2027. His early focus on interdisciplinary learning and public service laid the groundwork for a multifaceted professional career.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Mr. Brahmbhatt has held diverse roles across academia, research, leadership, and community engagement. At Tufts, he is actively involved as a Teaching Assistant in multiple dental courses and serves as President of the AI in Dental Research & Education Society. His professional experiences extend to being Vice President of the Dental Entrepreneurship Club, an Admissions Ambassador, and a Researcher at Tufts Medical Center, where he investigates critical issues in dentistry and public health. His leadership roles within national organizations such as ASDA and ADEA highlight his growing influence in dental education and policy.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Yash’s research contributions are wide-ranging and impactful. His work includes studies on peri-implant diseases, the link between periodontitis and cognitive decline, and AI applications in healthcare, including machine learning, language models, and 3D scanning technology. His dedication to innovation is further demonstrated through his leadership in organizing symposia and advancing evidence-based implant dentistry. He is especially passionate about integrating artificial intelligence into dental practice and education, setting a new standard for the next generation of practitioners.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and professional journey, Mr. Brahmbhatt has earned numerous recognitions, such as membership in the President’s 64 at Nova Southeastern University, leadership appointments in national dental associations, and his role as CEO of the Saving Smile Foundation. His certification portfolio—from HIPAA to OSHA—reflects a deep commitment to ethical and safe practices in healthcare. His honors and positions speak to his integrity, ambition, and the trust he has garnered across institutions.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Mr. Brahmbhatt’s influence goes beyond clinical and academic excellence. As a mission and service trip veteran, he has contributed to healthcare access in Guatemala, India, and underserved communities in Florida. Through community efforts and his foundation, he champions oral health equity, youth engagement, and environmental advocacy via his Seize The Sea organization. His multilingual abilities and cross-cultural competencies enhance his impact in global and local communities alike.

✨ Legacy and Future Contributions

With a unique blend of clinical skill, research innovation, entrepreneurial mindset, and community spirit, Mr. Brahmbhatt is shaping the future of dentistry. His continued work in AI integration, public health policy, and dental education reform positions him as a changemaker. Looking ahead, he is poised to lead transformative efforts in improving oral healthcare systems, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and inspiring the next generation of dental leaders. His legacy is one of service, science, and sustained impact.

Publications


📄 Association Between Ethylene Oxide Exposure and Complete Edentulism in United States Adults

Authors: Yash Brahmbhatt, Michelle Zak, Razan Alhajri, Noura Almulla, Sakeenah Alqallaf, Abdullah Alkandari, Shahad Alsaleh, Hend Alqaderi
Journal: Life
Year: 2025


📄 Association Between Severe Periodontitis and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults

Authors: Yash Brahmbhatt, Hend Alqaderi, Zahra Chinipardaz
Journal: Life
Year: 2024


Nancy Weaver | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nancy Weaver | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Saint Louis University | United States

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Nancy Weaver's academic journey is a testament to her commitment to public health and data-driven decision-making. She earned her Ph.D. in Health Behavior and Health Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2004, solidifying her expertise in behavioral sciences. Prior to this, she completed her Master of Public Health (MPH) in Biostatistics in 1995 at the same institution, honing her skills in data analysis and health research. Her foundation in quantitative sciences began with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, complemented by a minor in Statistics, from James Madison University in 1990. These academic achievements laid a strong groundwork for her future contributions to public health research and policy.

🌟 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Weaver has built an illustrious career as a leader in health behavior research and community engagement. She currently serves as a tenured Professor at the College for Public Health and Social Justice, Department of Behavioral Science and Health Education at Saint Louis University. Additionally, she co-directs the Community Engagement Core at the Center for Innovation in Child Maltreatment at Washington University in St. Louis, showcasing her dedication to interdisciplinary collaboration. Beyond academia, she is the Founder and CEO of Support Over Silence, LLC, an initiative focused on empowering individuals to respond to distress in public settings. She also operates Weaverly Consulting, LLC, where she provides strategic guidance in public health programs. Throughout her career, she has held numerous leadership positions, including Associate Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs and Founding Operations Director of the Research and Equity in Action for Child Health (REACH) Center. Her career trajectory underscores her unwavering dedication to improving health education and policy.

📈 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Weaver’s research is centered on child maltreatment prevention, health literacy, and behavioral interventions. She has secured substantial research funding, including her role as a subcontract principal investigator for the Center for Innovation in Child Maltreatment Policy, Research, and Training, a multi-million-dollar initiative backed by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Her work has also extended to projects funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where she has led efforts to tailor injury prevention communications for parents and healthcare providers. Her research contributions have significantly influenced pediatric injury prevention, as evidenced by her involvement in projects aimed at integrating injury prevention into home visitation programs and developing communication strategies for public health initiatives. She has also played a key role in addressing child maltreatment through social marketing and bystander intervention models, ensuring that her research translates into actionable public health solutions.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Weaver’s contributions to public health have been widely recognized through various grants and prestigious appointments. Her work in injury prevention and health communication has been published in top-tier journals such as the American Journal of Sports Medicine, Pediatrics, and Health Promotion Practice. Her research has also garnered attention for its practical applications, with her tailored communication strategies being implemented in pediatric primary care settings. As a mentor and educator, she has played a crucial role in training the next generation of public health professionals, further amplifying her impact on the field.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Weaver’s influence extends beyond academia into policy-making and community advocacy. Through her research, she has shaped national discussions on child safety and health literacy. Her work in developing evidence-based interventions has informed policy decisions at both state and national levels, demonstrating the real-world impact of her academic endeavors. She has also been instrumental in bridging the gap between social sciences and medical research, ensuring a holistic approach to health behavior interventions. Her collaborations with organizations like the Missouri Foundation for Health and the National Cancer Institute highlight her commitment to multidisciplinary problem-solving.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a leader in public health education and research, Dr. Nancy Weaver’s legacy is built on her dedication to improving child and community health outcomes. Her work continues to inspire new approaches to health behavior interventions, with a strong emphasis on data-driven strategies and community engagement. Through her roles in academia, consultancy, and nonprofit initiatives, she is paving the way for innovative solutions to pressing public health challenges. Her ongoing research in child maltreatment prevention, injury risk reduction, and health communication will undoubtedly leave a lasting imprint on the field, shaping future policies and practices for years to come. Dr. Weaver’s unwavering commitment to public health, research excellence, and community advocacy ensures that her influence will continue to grow, inspiring generations of scholars and practitioners to follow in her footsteps.

 

Publications


  • 📄 Emerging Virtual Reality Technologies and Opportunities for Public Health Programming
    Authors: Nancy Weaver, Kimberly Pryor
    Journal: Evaluation and Program Planning
    Year: 2025


  • 📄 Evaluation of Support Over Silence for KIDS: A Bystander Training Program to Address Public Child Maltreatment
    Authors: Meghan E. Taylor, Nancy L. Weaver, Terri L. Weaver, Travis M. Loux, Timothy J. Kutz
    Journal: Journal of Family Violence
    Year: 2023


  • 📄 Addressing caregiver-child conflict in public: Barriers and facilitators to bystander engagement
    Authors: Vithya Murugan, Terri L. Weaver, Meghan E. Taylor, Nancy L. Weaver, Allie D. Conlon
    Journal: Journal of Family Trauma, Child Custody and Child Development
    Year: 2021


  • 📄 Support Over Silence for KIDS: A bystander training program to address public child maltreatment
    Authors: Nancy L. Weaver, Meghan E. Taylor, Terri L. Weaver, Timothy J. Kutz
    Journal: Children and Youth Services Review
    Year: 2020


  • 📄 Unintentional child injury in child welfare placements
    Authors: Jesse J. Helton, Nancy L. Weaver
    Journal: Child Abuse and Neglect
    Year: 2020


 

Sandra Alpuim-Gonçalves | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sandra Alpuim-Gonçalves | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Universidad Rovira i Virgili | Spain

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Sandra Marisa Barbosa de Alpuim-Gonçalves began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s in Nursing at the Escola Superior de Enfermagem de Viana do Castelo, Portugal, in 1993, followed by a Postgraduate specialization in Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing. She later completed her Master’s in Educational Sciences at the University of Minho, focusing on health education, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Nursing and Health at Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Spain. Her academic achievements showcase her dedication to health sciences and education.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Alpuim-Gonçalves is an Assistant Professor at the Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo (IPVC), Portugal. She has held numerous administrative and academic roles, including serving on various committees such as the Pedagogical Council and managing the Health Process of the IPVC’s Quality and Social Responsibility Management System. Additionally, she has contributed as a technical coordinator for institutional projects promoting mental health in higher education and the community.

🧑‍🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Alpuim-Gonçalves’s research emphasizes transcultural nursing and the promotion of positive mental health among vulnerable populations, including migrants, refugees, and higher education students. She has been involved in significant projects such as:

  • RES4ALL+: Promoting mental health among students.
  • CuidaProSM+: Positive mental health for caregivers.
  • INPEC+: Enhancing mental health and citizenship practices.
    Her publications and conference presentations address critical issues like culturally congruent care, the role of nurses in promoting mental health, and the psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Alpuim-Gonçalves has received numerous awards for her contributions, including:

  • Honorable Mention for the 3rd Best Poster by the Portuguese Society of Mental Health Nursing in 2020.
  • Best Poster for a scoping review on transcultural nursing methods in 2017.
  • Second place for her poster presentation on the FREI(A) Project in 2013.
    These accolades reflect her exceptional work in advancing mental health practices and transcultural nursing.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Alpuim-Gonçalves’s influence extends beyond academia into community health initiatives. Her work in promoting mental health for underrepresented populations has created a ripple effect in fostering inclusivity and mental well-being. Her leadership in projects and active participation in events demonstrate her commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.

✨ Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Alpuim-Gonçalves’s work continues to leave a lasting legacy in nursing and mental health. Her ongoing doctoral studies, combined with her practical and academic contributions, position her as a transformative figure in health education and transcultural nursing. Her future endeavors are expected to further enhance culturally sensitive healthcare practices, benefiting diverse populations worldwide.

 

Publications


📝Interventions Promoting Positive Mental Health for Migrant and Refugee Adults in the Community: A Scoping Review

  •  Article: Journal of International Migration and Integration
  •  Year: 2025
  •  Contributors: Sandra Marisa Barbosa de Alpuim-Gonçalves, Ana Sofia Martins Ferreira Canedo Garrido, Georgina Casanova Garrigos, Carme Ferré-Grau, Sandra Cristina Santos Sousa, Carlos Alberto da Cruz Sequeira

📝Consumos de álcool, tabaco e drogas e o contexto escolar

  •  Chapter: Enfermagem em Saúde Escolar
  •  Year: 2024
  •  Contributors: Diana Mateus, Rosa Silva, Paulo Seabra, Vera Cruz, Sandra M.B. Alpuim-Gonçalves

📝Posvenção do suicídio: o(a) profissional de saúde como sobrevivente

  •  Chapter: Ética e Deontologia em Enfermagem de Saúde Mental e Psiquiátrica
  •  Year: 2024
  •  Contributors: Isabel Amorim, Arminda Vieira, Sandra M.B. Alpuim-Gonçalves, Maria João Amorim

📝OS SERVIÇOS DE PROMOÇÃO DE SAÚDE MENTAL E BEM-ESTAR DOS SERVIÇOS DE ACÇÃO SOCIAL DO INSTITUTO POLITÉCNICO DE VIANA DO CASTELO

  •  Conference Paper
  •  Year: 2024
  •  Contributors: Mariana Fernandes, Ana Sofia Rodrigues, Luís Ceia, Daniela Ferreira, Sandra M.B. Alpuim-Gonçalves

📝Impacto da Pandemia COVID-19 na População em Geral

  •  Article: Revista Portuguesa de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo - Suplemento XXVII Curso Pós-graduado de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo
  •  Year: 2022
  •  Contributor: Sandra Marisa B. Alpuim-Gonçalves

 

Yanqiu Huang | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yanqiu Huang | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine| China

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Yanqiu Huang began her academic journey in Preventive Medicine at Nanjing Medical University from 2017 to 2022. Her major courses included Epidemiology, Health Statistics, Environmental Hygiene, and Nutrition and Food Hygiene. Throughout her undergraduate studies, she demonstrated exceptional academic excellence, receiving several prestigious honors such as the National Scholarship, First Class Academic Scholarship, Dean Scholarship, and Public Health Scholarship. These early achievements laid a strong foundation for her career in public health.

Professional Endeavors 🏥

After completing her Bachelor's degree, Dr. Huang pursued a Doctor of Medicine in Public Health and Preventive Medicine at Shanghai Jiao Tong University from 2022 to 2024. During her PhD, she delved into advanced subjects such as Advanced Epidemiology, Oncology, Endocrinology, Metabolic Diseases, and Medical Statistics. Her exceptional performance in these areas earned her PhD First and Second Class Academic Scholarships. Dr. Huang's research during this period focused on public health challenges, particularly lifestyle and environmental factors affecting health outcomes.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Huang has made significant contributions to the field of public health and preventive medicine. Her research primarily focuses on the role of lifestyle and nutrient intake on health, particularly in special populations. She has also explored Mendelian Randomization in digestive, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular diseases, as well as the impact of air pollution on adverse health outcomes. Some of her notable publications include:

  • "Effect of Maternal Triclosan Exposure on Neonatal Birth Weight and Children Triclosan Exposure on BMI" (2021)
  • "Association Between Healthy Lifestyle Combinations and Periodontitis" (2024)
  • "Independent and Combined Effects of Smoking, Drinking, and Depression on Periodontal Disease" (2024)

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Huang's academic and research accomplishments have been widely recognized. She has consistently received scholarships throughout her academic career, including the PhD First Class Academic Scholarship and PhD Second Class Academic Scholarship. Her publications in high-impact journals, such as Front Public Health and BMC Oral Health, have earned her a reputation as a rising star in public health research.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Huang’s research has made a significant impact on understanding the intersection of lifestyle, environmental factors, and health outcomes. Her studies have helped shape public health strategies by highlighting the importance of nutrient intake, pollution control, and healthy lifestyles in preventing diseases. Her work on Mendelian Randomization and its application to chronic diseases like cardiovascular and neurodegenerative conditions further contributes to global health knowledge.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Dr. Yanqiu Huang's academic achievements and research contributions position her as a future leader in preventive medicine. As she continues her work in public health research, her focus on lifestyle-mediated health outcomes and environmental influences will likely lead to new insights and solutions for improving global health. Her ongoing research and future publications will continue to influence policy and health initiatives worldwide, creating a lasting impact on the field.

 

Publications


📄 Association between Lifestyle Modification and All-Cause, Cardiovascular, and Premature Mortality in Individuals with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Journal: Nutrients
Year: 2024
Contributors: Yanqiu Huang, Jinfan Xu, Yang Yang, Tingya Wan, Hui Wang, Xiaoguang Li


📄 The Combined Effects of the Most Important Dietary Patterns on the Incidence and Prevalence of Chronic Renal Failure: Results from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and Mendelian Analyses
Journal: Nutrients
Year: 2024
Contributors: Yanqiu Huang, Shiyu Xu, Tingya Wan, Xiaoyu Wang, Shuo Jiang, Wentao Shi, Shuai Ma, Hui Wang


📄 Association between Sleep and Periodontitis: NHANES 2009-2014 and Mendelian Randomization Study
Journal: CRANIO®
Year: 2024
Contributors: Yong Yuan, Xujie Miao, Yingqi Hou, Yanqiu Huang, Beibei Qiu, Wentao Shi


 

 

 

Alessia Bertolazzi | Social Sciences | Best Research Award

Prof. Alessia Bertolazzi | Social Sciences | Best Research Award

University of Macerata | Italy

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Prof. Alessia Bertolazzi embarked on her academic journey with a Degree in Political Science from the University of Bologna, graduating with the highest honors in 2001. She further pursued a Ph.D. in Criminology at the same institution, completing it in 2005. Her early studies laid a solid foundation for her future research in sociology and criminology.

Professional Endeavors 🌟

Prof. Bertolazzi's professional career includes significant roles at the University of Macerata, where she has been an Associate Professor in General Sociology since 2021, following a decade as an Assistant Professor. Her teaching and research contributions have been instrumental in shaping the academic landscape in her field. She has also held visiting professor positions at esteemed institutions such as KU Leuven University, Maria Curie Sklodowska University, and Pablo de Olavide University, enhancing her global academic footprint.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Prof. Bertolazzi’s research spans various aspects of sociology, particularly focusing on digitalization in elderly care, socio-healthcare system transformations, and the nursing profession. Notable projects include "DIGITELD: Digitalization of Elderly" and "REINITIALISE: Preserving Fundamental Rights in e-health Services." Her work often involves significant European Union-funded initiatives, reflecting her commitment to advancing social and healthcare systems.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout her career, Prof. Bertolazzi has garnered recognition for her scholarly contributions. She serves as the Vice President of the Italian Society of Health Sociology (SISS) and is a member of several prestigious scientific societies, including the European Sociological Association (ESA) and the European Society for Health and Medical Sociology (ESHMS). Her leadership and active participation in these societies highlight her influence and dedication to her field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Prof. Bertolazzi’s research and academic roles have had a profound impact on understanding and improving socio-healthcare systems. Her work on the integration of technology in elderly care and her analysis of socio-healthcare transformations in Italian regions have influenced policies and practices. Her contributions extend beyond Italy, impacting the broader European and global academic community through her international collaborations and teaching roles.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Prof. Bertolazzi's legacy is rooted in her innovative research and dedication to advancing the field of sociology, particularly in health and social services. Looking ahead, her ongoing involvement in high-impact projects and her role in scientific societies ensure that she will continue to shape and contribute to the development of sociological research and practice. Her future contributions promise to further enhance understanding and address emerging challenges in the field.

 

Publications


  • 📝"Datafication of Care: Security and Privacy Issues with Health Technology for People with Diabetes"
    Author: Alessia Bertolazzi, Katarzyna Marzęda-Młynarska, Justyna Kięczkowska, Maria Letizia Zanier
    Journal: Societies
    Year: 2024

  • 📝"Editorial: Uncertainty Management During and About the COVID-19 Pandemic"
    Author: Ilaria Riccioni, Alessia Bertolazzi, Anna Tereszkiewicz, Magdalena Szczyrbak, Ramona Bongelli
    Journal: Frontiers in Communication
    Year: 2024

  • 📝"Barriers and Facilitators to Health Technology Adoption by Older Adults with Chronic Diseases: An Integrative Systematic Review"
    Author: Alessia Bertolazzi, Valeria Quaglia, Ramona Bongelli
    Journal: BMC Public Health
    Year: 2024

  • 📝"Health Risk Communication During Covid-19 Emergency in Italy: The Impact of Medical Experts’ Debate on Twitter"
    Author: Alessia Bertolazzi, Ramona Bongelli, Ilaria Riccioni
    Journal: Health Communication
    Year: 2023

  • 📝"I Know That I Know: Online Health Information Seeking, Self-Care and the Overconfidence Effect"
    Author: Alessia Bertolazzi, Linda Lombi, Alessandro Lovari, Gea Ducci, Lucia D'Ambrosi
    Journal: Sociological Forum
    Year: 2023

 

Fung Kuen Koo | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fung Kuen Koo | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Western Sydney University | Australia

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📚 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Fung Kuen Koo’s academic journey is marked by distinguished qualifications in health and education. She earned her Ph.D. in 2005 from the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Education & Social Work, presenting a thesis on the health beliefs and behaviors of older Hong Kong Chinese people in Australia. Prior to this, she completed a Master of Education in Health Education at the same institution in 1999, investigating barriers to health promotion participation among older Chinese-speaking individuals in New South Wales. She also holds a Master of Public Health from the University of Wollongong (1997), a Bachelor of Health Science in Nursing from the University of Western Sydney (1995), and a Diploma of General Nursing from Caritas Medical Centre in Hong Kong (1993).

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Koo’s professional career is extensive and impactful. She is currently a Senior Lecturer at Western Sydney University’s Hawkesbury Campus since July 2022. Before this, she held various significant positions, including Senior Lecturer/Lead for Pre-Registration Master in Nursing at Charles Darwin University, and Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney. Her earlier roles include Lecturer at the University of Sydney, Clinical Instructor at the University of Hong Kong, and Registered Nurse at multiple prestigious institutions including Royal North Shore Hospital and Mater Hospital in Sydney.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Koo’s research contributions are vast and varied. Her work spans several critical areas, including preventive health, health education, and the integration of cultural perspectives into healthcare. Notable projects include the development of community cancer screening programs for Chinese-Australian women and studies on the willingness of young adults to provide dementia care. Her research on cultural influences and vitamin D status among South East Asian women highlights her commitment to addressing health disparities through culturally informed interventions.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Koo’s excellence in research and education has been recognized through various grants and awards. She has received funding from esteemed organizations like the Australian Association of Gerontology, the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education, and the Cancer Institute NSW. Her projects have been pivotal in advancing community health initiatives and educational programs, earning her a reputable position in the field of health education.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Dr. Koo’s impact on the field of nursing and health education is profound. Her work has influenced health promotion practices, particularly among Chinese-speaking communities in Australia. Through her innovative research and dedicated teaching, she has shaped the perspectives of countless students and healthcare professionals, fostering a deeper understanding of culturally competent care.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Koo’s legacy is one of dedication, innovation, and cultural sensitivity in healthcare. She continues to inspire future generations of nurses and educators with her pioneering research and commitment to community health. Her ongoing projects and future endeavors promise to further enhance the integration of cultural perspectives into health education and practice, ensuring her lasting influence on the field.

 

Publications 🖋️ 


📝Evaluating pre-and post-oral health literacy of undergraduate nursing students on an oral-systemic health learning intervention
Authors: Fung Kuen Koo BHS(Nsg), MPH, MEd, PhD, Rebecca Chen BOH, MIntPH, Judith Fethney BA (Hons), BTeach, Jay Balante BSN, MAN (Adult Health Nsg), GradCertClinEd, MACN, Grace Wong RDT, BHM, BTrngDev, MHlthProm, GradCert, HPEd, PhD
Journal: Journal of Dental Education
Year: 2024


📝Nursing students' experiences of using flipcharts as a learning tool during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Balante, J., Candelaria, D., Perez, D., Koo, F.
Journal: Nurse Education Today
Year: 2023


📝A systematic review of quantitative and qualitative literature on health professionals' experiences communicating with Chinese immigrants
Authors: Li, J., Lowres, N., Koo, F.K., Gallagher, R.
Journal: International Journal of Nursing Practice
Year: 2021


📝Assessing oral health literacy of university nursing students: A cross-sectional exploratory study
Authors: Wong, G., Koo, T.F., Fethney, J., Chen, R.
Journal: Nurse Education in Practice
Year: 2021


📝Understanding Prevention and Management of Coronary Heart Disease Among Chinese Immigrants and Their Family Carers: A Socioecological Approach
Authors: Jin, K., Neubeck, L., Koo, F., Ding, D., Gullick, J.
Journal: Journal of Transcultural Nursing
Year: 2020