Hajar Pakyari | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Research Article Award

Hajar Pakyari | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Research Article Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Hajar Pakyari, Islamic Azad University, Iran

Dr. Hajar Pakyari, born on September 16, 1981, in Shiraz, Iran, is an esteemed Associate Professor of Agricultural Entomology at the Islamic Azad University, Takestan Branch. With a dedicated career spanning over 18 years, she specializes in the biological control of agricultural pests, particularly focusing on the predatory thrips Scolothrips longicornis and its role in managing spider mite populations. As a pioneer female scientist in her field, she has been recognized as the youngest female Associate Professor in Iran and the first in Qazvin Province. Dr. Pakyari has contributed substantially through her research publications, book authorship, international conference presentations, and leadership roles, including heading the Department of Plant Protection. Her scientific excellence is acknowledged worldwide through various editorial responsibilities, such as her position as a Subject Editor for the Bulletin of Entomological Research. She continues to inspire through her impactful work in sustainable pest management and applied entomology.

Publication Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Hajar Pakyari holds a robust academic background in Plant Protection and Entomology. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Plant Protection from the Islamic Azad University, Shiraz Branch (1999–2002). Subsequently, she pursued her Master of Science in Entomology at the Islamic Azad University, Tehran Branch (2003–2005), where her thesis focused on the species diversity of soil mites in Sorkheh Hesar Forest Park. Driven by her passion for integrated pest management, she advanced to obtain her Ph.D. in Entomology from the same institution (2005–2008), where she investigated the efficiency of the predatory thrips Scolothrips longicornis in controlling Tetranychus urticae under controlled conditions. Her academic journey laid a strong foundation for her expertise in pest control, biological diversity, and ecological studies of beneficial arthropods, establishing her as a specialist in agricultural entomology.

💼 Experience

Dr. Pakyari began her professional career as a full-time Faculty Member at the Department of Plant Protection, Islamic Azad University, Takestan Branch in 2006, where she currently serves as an Associate Professor and Head of Department. From 2006 to 2008, she was also a Visiting Lecturer at the Science & Research Branch in Tehran. Her professional engagements include leadership as the Deputy of the Islamic World Women Scientists Network (2009–2024) and editorial duties as Subject Editor of the Bulletin of Entomological Research. She has managed several research projects on biological control, pest management, and pesticide effects on beneficial insects. Dr. Pakyari’s extensive peer-reviewing activity for renowned journals demonstrates her influence in the global entomological community. Additionally, she has shared her findings at key international congresses in countries such as the Netherlands, Tunisia, Thailand, and the USA, reinforcing her status as a leader in agricultural pest control research.

🏆 Honors and Awards

Dr. Hajar Pakyari’s outstanding scientific contributions have earned her multiple prestigious recognitions. She was honored as the Youngest Female Associate Professor in Iran and the first in Qazvin Province. Her pioneering research efforts led to her selection as Top Researcher of the Year at the Takestan Branch and the Young Researchers Club (2009), along with repeated recognitions in 2011, 2012, 2018, and 2024 at her university. As a long-standing member of the Elite Club of Young Researchers since 2001, Dr. Pakyari exemplifies academic excellence and leadership. Furthermore, she was acclaimed as the Provincial Top Researcher in Qazvin in 2020, underscoring her significant impact on regional agricultural advancements. These awards reflect her deep commitment to entomological science, particularly in biological pest management, making her a role model for aspiring researchers in Iran and globally.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Hajar Pakyari’s research primarily revolves around biological pest control, with an emphasis on the predatory efficiency of thrips (Scolothrips longicornis) against spider mites (Tetranychus urticae) under varied environmental conditions. Her studies investigate factors such as temperature, photoperiod, and pesticide impacts on the life cycle, fecundity, and predatory behavior of beneficial arthropods. She has also contributed to understanding functional response models, development thresholds, and sublethal pesticide effects on beneficial mites and insects, aiming to enhance integrated pest management (IPM) programs. Additionally, Dr. Pakyari’s research extends to evaluating the influence of abiotic factors such as light wavelengths and heat stress on predator-prey dynamics. Her work bridges the gap between theoretical models and applied agricultural practices, ensuring ecological safety and sustainability. Through national and international collaborations, she continues to pioneer innovative approaches for pest management in crop protection systems.

📚 Publications

1️⃣ Effect of temperature on life-table parameters of Scolothrips longicornis fed on Tetranychus urticae 🌿
2️⃣ Estimating Development and Temperature Thresholds of Scolothrips longicornis Using Models 🔬
3️⃣ Effect of temperature on consumption of Tetranychus urticae eggs by Scolothrips longicornis 🥚
4️⃣ Temperature-dependent functional response of Scolothrips longicornis preying on Tetranychus urticae 🌱
5️⃣ Prey stage preference of Scolothrips longicornis on Tetranychus urticae 🍃
6️⃣ Mutual interference of Scolothrips longicornis on Tetranychus urticae 🕷️
7️⃣ No choice prey stage preference and functional response of Scolothrips longicornis 🧩
8️⃣ Development Rate of Scolothrips longicornis at Various Temperatures 🌡️
9️⃣ The biology, life table and predation of Scolothrips longicornis fed on Tetranychus urticae 🦟
🔟 Spatial distribution pattern of Tetranychus urticae and its predator Scolothrips longicornis 🗺️
1️⃣1️⃣ Species diversity of soil mites in Sorkheh Hesar Forest Park 🌳
1️⃣2️⃣ First report of genus Evimirus for Iran 🇮🇷
1️⃣3️⃣ Oviposition model of Scolothrips longicornis on Tetranychus urticae 🐣
1️⃣4️⃣ Development and Life Table of Tyrophagus putrescentiae on Mushroom 🍄
1️⃣5️⃣ Influence of temperature and host plant on Tetranychus urticae development 🌾
1️⃣6️⃣ Effect of temperature on reproduction of Scolothrips longicornis 🥚
1️⃣7️⃣ Development time and fecundity of Two-Spotted Spider Mite 🍃
1️⃣8️⃣ Functional response of predatory thrips under pesticide influence ☠️
1️⃣9️⃣ Lethal and sublethal effects of Fenpropathrin on Scolothrips longicornis 💀
2️⃣0️⃣ Sublethal and transgenerational effects of Abamectin on Scolothrips longicornis 🧬
2️⃣1️⃣ Temperature effects on Eotetranychus hirsti development on fig leaves 🍂
2️⃣2️⃣ Cannibalism in phytoseiid mites 🕸️
2️⃣3️⃣ Sublethal pesticide effects on Scolothrips longicornis feeding behavior ⚠️
2️⃣4️⃣ Sublethal pesticide effects on Cryptolaemus montrouzieri 🐞
2️⃣5️⃣ Spirodiclofen effects on Scolothrips longicornis 🧪
2️⃣6️⃣ Oviposition model of Ephestia kuehniella 🦋
2️⃣7️⃣ Development of pale damsel bug under temperature variations 🔥❄️
2️⃣8️⃣ Repellency of plant extracts on storage pests 🌿
2️⃣9️⃣ Mealybug avoidance of ladybird semiochemicals 🐞
3️⃣0️⃣ Development thresholds of Ephestia kuehniella for mass production 🏭
3️⃣1️⃣ Light cycle effects on Ephestia kuehniella in the lab 💡
3️⃣2️⃣ Photoperiod effects on Scolothrips longicornis life table 🌙
3️⃣3️⃣ Life table of Ephestia kuehniella at constant temperatures 📊
3️⃣4️⃣ Cold storage effects on Scolothrips longicornis 🧊
3️⃣5️⃣ Wavelength impact on Scolothrips longicornis development 🌈
3️⃣6️⃣ Predation rate of Scolothrips longicornis on Tetranychus urticae 🐜
3️⃣7️⃣ Light wavelength effects on Phytoseiulus persimilis 🌓
3️⃣8️⃣ Photoperiod effects on Phytoseiulus persimilis population growth 🌞
3️⃣9️⃣ Fenpyroximate effects on Scolothrips longicornis toxicity evaluation ⚠️
4️⃣0️⃣ Temperature impact on mass production of Scolothrips longicornis 🌡️
4️⃣1️⃣ Light cycles affecting predation of Phytoseiulus persimilis 🌅
4️⃣2️⃣ Heat stress effects on Phytoseiulus persimilis demographics 🔥

Mohamed Taha | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mohamed Taha | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr Mohamed Taha, National Research Center, Egypt

Dr. Mohamed Taha is a distinguished biophysicist and molecular biologist 🧬 with over 20 years of academic and research experience across Egypt, Germany, and the USA 🌍. He earned his Ph.D. in Natural Sciences (Biology) from Heinrich-Heine University, Germany 🇩🇪, under a DAAD scholarship, achieving Magna Cum Laude honors 🎓. His multidisciplinary expertise spans biochemistry, neurodegeneration, proteomics, and gene editing technologies like CRISPR/Cas9 🔬. Dr. Taha has led innovative research projects on oxidative stress and Alzheimer’s disease 🧠, protein networks related to Fragile X syndrome, and molecular biomarkers for autism. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the National Research Centre in Cairo 🏛️, he also served as a lecturer at Ain Shams University 📚. With an impressive track record of international collaborations, publications in high-impact journals, and cutting-edge research methods, Dr. Taha exemplifies excellence in scientific inquiry, mentorship, and translational medicine. His dedication to innovation makes him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award 🥇.

Publication Profile

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Education 

Dr. Mohamed Taha holds a Ph.D. in Biology (Natural Sciences) from the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Faculty of Medicine, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany 🇩🇪 (2009–2014), graduating with Magna Cum Laude distinction 🎓. His doctoral research, supported by the prestigious DAAD scholarship 🏅, focused on the protein network of Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein. He earned an M.Sc. in Biophysics from Ain Shams University, Cairo 🇪🇬 (2003–2007), where he studied gene expression in hearing-impaired children 🧬. Prior to that, he completed his B.Sc. in Biophysics from the same university (1997–2001), graduating with high honors 📘. His diverse educational background combines advanced training in molecular biology, proteomics, biochemistry, and biophysics 🔬. This academic foundation has propelled Dr. Taha into the forefront of international biomedical research and has enabled him to work across multidisciplinary scientific domains with depth and innovation 🧠🔍.

Experience 

Dr. Mohamed Taha brings a rich tapestry of research and teaching experience across international institutions 🌐. Since 2017, he has served as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the National Research Centre in Cairo 🏛️, where he leads projects on oxidative stress in neurodegeneration and low-dose radiotherapy in Alzheimer’s treatment 🧠. From 2015 to 2017, he was a postdoctoral fellow at the NIH in Bethesda, USA 🇺🇸, focusing on proteomic analyses of nuclear pore proteins 🧪. He also worked at Heinrich-Heine University, Germany 🇩🇪 (2014–2015), researching protein networks in Fragile X syndrome. Earlier, he contributed as a lecturer at Ain Shams University (2018–2021) 📚 and as a research assistant and assistant researcher at the National Research Centre (2003–2009). His hands-on lab experience spans molecular cloning, gene editing (CRISPR), microscopy, chromatography, and biophysical techniques, alongside strong teaching and mentoring roles 🔬👨‍🏫.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Taha has an impressive academic journey, starting with a DAAD Scholarship (2009–2014) that provided full funding for his Ph.D. at Heinrich-Heine University, Germany, where he graduated magna cum laude for his exceptional research in biology. He furthered his career with a tenure-track position as a postdoctoral researcher at the National Research Centre in Cairo, followed by an NIH Postdoc Fellowship in the USA (2015–2017). During this time, he also mentored NIH summer students, earning recognition for his guidance. Dr. Taha served as a University Lecturer at Ain Shams University, teaching undergraduate biotechnology from 2018 to 2021. His contributions to neurobiology, proteomics, and molecular diagnostics have earned him a nomination for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to research and mentoring, coupled with his global academic recognition, showcases his commitment to advancing the scientific community, making him a deserving candidate for further honors and accolades. 🌍🧬📚

Research Focus

Dr. Mohamed Taha’s research bridges molecular biology, neurodegeneration, and proteomics 🧬🧠. His Ph.D. work provided novel insights into Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP), a key regulator of neuronal function and synaptic plasticity 💡. At NIH, he advanced proteomic approaches to analyze nuclear pore protein modifications during mitosis 🧫. Currently, he investigates oxidative stress and low-dose radiotherapy as therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer’s 🧠⚡. He also explores genetic and biochemical markers in autism and viral diseases. His methodologies span CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, ELISA, FPLC protein purification, and real-time PCR 🔍. With a focus on translational research and early biomarker discovery, Dr. Taha’s work aims to bridge the gap between lab innovations and clinical applications, addressing unmet medical needs and contributing significantly to precision medicine 🌟🧪.

Publication Top Notes

  • Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein Protein and Its Multifunctionality: From Cytosol to Nucleolus and Back (Biomolecules, 2024)

  • 🦠 In Vitro Assessment of a Natural Monoterpene as an Antiviral Compound against Low Pathogenic Human Coronavirus 229E (Egypt. J. Chem., 2024)

  • 🔄 Physical Interaction between ERas and Arginase-1 in Quiescent Hepatic Stellate Cells (Cells, 2022)

  • 🧪 Telomere Length and Glutathione Level as Potential Biomarkers for Autism (J Psychi Res Rev Rep, 2021)

  • 🔗 Uncovering Multiple Protein Interaction Networks Linked to Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FEBS J., 2020)

  • 🛡️ FMRP Protects Against TNF-Mediated Cell Death and Liver Injury (Gut, 2020)

  • 📍 Subcellular Localization Reveals Direct Interaction of FMRP with Nucleolin (Manuscript)

Luciana Gonzalez Paleo| Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Luciana Gonzalez Paleo| Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Investigador adjunto-Research at MEF CONICET, Argentina

Luciana Gonzalez Paleo is a highly accomplished researcher specializing in plant physiology, eco-physiology, and agricultural sciences. With a strong academic background and extensive research experience, she has focused on understanding the structural and functional aspects of perenniality in herb systems, particularly in the context of marginal environments. Her work aims to develop conceptual models for cultivating perennial oilseed crops and selecting criteria that balance yield with sustainability. In addition to her postdoctoral research on leaf-level structure/function relationships in annual and perennial herbs, Luciana has investigated the antibacterial and phytosanitary properties of medicinal plants used in traditional herbal medicine. Her research contributes to the development of natural antibiotics and fungicides, offering sustainable solutions for agriculture and healthcare. Luciana’s research underscores her commitment to advancing agricultural sustainability and addressing global challenges through innovative scientific approaches. Her work has implications for crop improvement, environmental conservation, and human health, making her a valuable asset in the field of agricultural and biological sciences.

Professional Profile:

📚 Education:

Luciana Gonzalez Paleo completed her Ph.D. in Eco-physiology of native plants in arid zones. Her postdoctoral work focused on understanding the functional mechanisms at different hierarchical levels (anatomical, structural, and functional) behind the responses to drought of promising species as new crops. This research aimed to establish criteria for defining crop ideotypes for fragile areas, considering sustainability and yield stability.  In addition to her doctoral and postdoctoral studies, Luciana has undertaken postgraduate courses and extracurricular training. For example, she completed a course on an unspecified topic from November 29 to December 2, 2011. Luciana’s educational background demonstrates her strong foundation in plant physiology, particularly in the context of arid environments, and her commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture through scientific research and learning.

📝Work Experience:

Luciana Gonzalez Paleo has a diverse and rich work experience, primarily focused on research and education in the field of plant physiology and agricultural sciences. She has held various teaching positions at the Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco, Facultad de Cs. Naturales y Ciencias de la Salud – Sede Puerto Madryn, where she has contributed her expertise as a professor in courses such as Botany and General Physiology. Luciana has also been actively involved in research, particularly in the evaluation of the antibacterial and phytosanitary activity of medicinal plants from the traditional herbal medicine of the Chubut plateau. Her research aimed to study the properties and potential applications of these plants, which represent a promising source of new natural products for the development of phytomedicines, cosmetics, or phytosanitary products. This work highlights her commitment to exploring sustainable alternatives in agriculture and healthcare. Furthermore, Luciana has played important roles in institutional management, serving as a member of the Zonal Advisory Council at the Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco, Facultad de Cs. Naturales y Ciencias de la Salud – Sede Puerto Madryn, where she provided specialized advice. She has also served as the Coordinator of the Department of Biology at the same institution, demonstrating her leadership and organizational skills. Overall, Luciana’s work experience reflects her dedication to scientific research, education, and institutional development in the field of plant physiology and agricultural sciences.

📊Research :

Luciana Gonzalez Paleo has a robust research background, focusing on plant physiology, eco-physiology, and agricultural sciences. Her research has been instrumental in understanding the structural and functional bases of perenniality in herb systems, particularly those differing in plant productivity and longevity. One of her key objectives has been to develop a conceptual model for the cultivation of perennial oilseed crops in marginal areas, emphasizing the selection criteria that combine yield with perenniality. In her postdoctoral work, Luciana delved into the differences in leaf-level structure/function relationships between annual and perennial herbs. This research provided valuable insights into the physiological adaptations of these plants to drought, laying the groundwork for defining crop ideotypes for fragile environments that incorporate sustainability and yield stability criteria. Additionally, Luciana has conducted research on the antibacterial and phytosanitary activities of medicinal plants used in traditional herbal medicine on the Chubut plateau. This work aimed to evaluate the potential of these plants as natural antibiotics and fungicides, contributing to the development of sustainable alternatives in agriculture and healthcare. Luciana’s research experience demonstrates her expertise in plant physiology, agricultural sustainability, and the application of scientific knowledge to address practical challenges in agriculture and health.

 

📚Publications :

From acquisitive to conservative: The ontogenetic trajectory of root syndrome of annual and perennial co-generic species

Authors: Gonzalez-Paleo, L.; Parmigiani, C.; Pastor-Pastor, A.; Vilela, A.E.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

Unpredicted, rapid and unintended structural and functional changes occurred during early domestication of Silphium integrifolium, a perennial oilseed

Authors: Ravetta, D.A.; Vilela, A.E.; Gonzalez-Paleo, L.; Van Tassel, D.L.

Citations: 0

Year: 2023

Domestication effects on nitrogen allocation, internal recycling and nitrogen use efficiency in the perennial new crop Silphium integrifolium (Asteraceae)

Authors: Gonzalez-Paleo, L.; Ravetta, D.A.; Vilela, A.E.; Van Tassel, D.

Citations: 0

Year: 2023

From leaf traits to agroecosystem functioning: effects of changing resource use strategy during silphium domestication on litter quality and decomposition rate

Authors: González-Paleo, L.; Ravetta, D.; Van Tassel, D.

Citations: 5

Year: 2022

Age-related changes in root traits are linked to internal nitrogen cycling in the perennial forb Physaria (Brassicaceae)

Authors: Pastor-Pastor, A.; Vilela, A.; González-Paleo, L.

Citations: 3

Year: 2021

Seed oil content and phenology of Physaria species (Brassicaceae) differing in their life-cycle

Authors: González-Paleo, L.; Ravetta, D.

Citations: 1

Year: 2021

Balancing forage production, seed yield, and pest management in the perennial sunflower silphium integrifolium (Asteraceae)

Authors: Vilela, A.E.; González-Paleo, L.; Ravetta, D.A.; Murrell, E.G.; van Tassel, D.L.

Citations: 8

Year: 2020

Plasticity in nitrogen conservation strategy under C gain variation in annual and perennial Physaria (Brassicaceae)

Authors: Rajnoch, G.; Ravetta, D.A.; González-Paleo, L.

Citations: 2

Year: 2020

Mechanisms of nitrogen conservation at the leaf-level in annual and perennial desert forbs: Implications for perennial crops domestication

Authors: González-Paleo, L.; Pastor-Pastor, A.; Rajnoch, G.; Ravetta, D.A.

Citations: 11

Year: 2019

The root of the problem of perennials domestication: is selection for yield changing key root system traits required for ecological sustainability?

Authors: Pastor-Pastor, A.; Vilela, A.E.; González-Paleo, L.

Citations: 15

Year: 2019