Lei Yao | Artificial Intelligence | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Lei Yao | Artificial Intelligence | Research Excellence Award

Ph.D. Candidate | Jilin University | China

Mr. Lei Yao is an advancing researcher whose work lies at the intersection of artificial intelligence, biomedical engineering, and intelligent monitoring systems. His research focuses on designing innovative AI-driven solutions for healthcare diagnostics, cognitive evaluation, physiological signal analysis, and smart livestock management. Through the integration of deep learning, multi-task learning, and generative models, he aims to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and scalability of real-world intelligent sensing applications.A core area of Mr. Yao’s work is biomedical signal processing, especially electrocardiogram (ECG) analysis. His contribution to MMS-Net, a multi-task learning framework, provides a transformative method for reconstructing full 12-lead ECG signals using only 3-lead inputs while simultaneously performing disease classification. This technology enhances diagnostic capabilities in low-resource settings and supports more accessible cardiology screening.Mr. Yao also investigates synthetic data generation using modern generative adversarial networks. His work on SGECG, a StarGAN-based system for ECG generation and augmentation, aids in overcoming data scarcity, a major limitation in machine-learning-based healthcare research.Beyond biomedical applications, Mr. Yao significantly contributes to smart agriculture and automaed animal health monitoring. His publication SideCow-VSS introduces a comprehensive video semantic segmentation dataset designed for intelligent dairy cow health assessment in smart ranch environments—an important advancement for precision livestock farming.His interdisciplinary research further includes cognitive assessment, demonstrated by MLCDT, a fine-grained multi-task learning model that enhances automated analysis of the clock drawing test, an essential tool in early detection of cognitive impairment.Overall, Mr. Lei Yao’s research integrates AI, signal processing, and intelligent sensing to create impactful solutions for healthcare, cognitive diagnostics, and smart agricultural systems.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  1. Yao, L., Garmash, O., Bianchi, F., Zheng, J., Yan, C., Kontkanen, J., Junninen, H., … (2018). Atmospheric new particle formation from sulfuric acid and amines in a Chinese megacity. Science, 361(6399), 278–281.
    Citations: 611

  2. Xiao, S., Wang, M. Y., Yao, L., Kulmala, M., Zhou, B., Yang, X., Chen, J. M., Wang, D. F., … (2015). Strong atmospheric new particle formation in winter in urban Shanghai, China. Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 15(4), 1769–1781.
    Citations: 176

  3. Zheng, J., Ma, Y., Chen, M., Zhang, Q., Wang, L., Khalizov, A. F., Yao, L., Wang, Z., … (2015). Measurement of atmospheric amines and ammonia using the high-resolution time-of-flight chemical ionization mass spectrometry. Atmospheric Environment, 102, 249–259.
    Citations: 165

  4. Yan, C., Nie, W., Äijälä, M., Rissanen, M. P., Canagaratna, M. R., Massoli, P., … Yao, L., … (2016). Source characterization of highly oxidized multifunctional compounds in a boreal forest environment using positive matrix factorization. Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 16(19), 12,715–12,731.
    Citations: 164

  5. Wang, X., Hayeck, N., Brüggemann, M., Yao, L., Chen, H., Zhang, C., Emmelin, C., … (2017). Chemical characteristics of organic aerosols in Shanghai: A study by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with Orbitrap mass spectrometry. Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres, 122(21), 11,703–11,722.
    Citations: 157

Mr. Lei Yao’s research significantly advances atmospheric chemistry by uncovering the mechanisms of new particle formation, characterizing organic aerosols, and improving high-resolution chemical detection technologies. His contributions enhance scientific understanding of air pollution sources, support policymakers in designing effective climate and air-quality interventions, and strengthen industrial environmental monitoring frameworks. Through high-impact studies published in globally respected journals, his work drives innovation in atmospheric measurement, fosters healthier urban environments, and informs global strategies for mitigating particulate pollution and its effects on human and environmental health.

 

Abeer Elkhouly | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Abeer Elkhouly | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

University of Wollongong in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dr. Abeer Elkhouly is a dynamic researcher in Electrical, Computer, and Telecommunication Engineering, specializing in Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, Robotics, and Healthcare Technology. She completed her Ph.D. in Computer Engineering at Universiti Malaysia Perlis, where she developed advanced methods for intelligent feature selection and audiogram classification to support dementia hearing aid design. Her contributions extend across multiple funded projects in Malaysia and the UAE, with emphasis on AI-driven healthcare systems, autonomous robotics, and optimization techniques. Dr. Elkhouly has published in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports and Applied Sciences, and presented at IEEE and Scopus-indexed conferences. She also serves as an editor for MethodsX (Elsevier), reviewer for IEEE, and organizer of international research forums. Beyond research, she actively mentors students, co-founded the Centre for Academic Integrity in the UAE, and engages with professional bodies including IEEE, ACM, and WATTLE, reinforcing her global academic influence.

Professional Profile 

 ORCID Profile | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Abeer Elkhouly has built a strong academic foundation that bridges computer engineering, telecommunications, and artificial intelligence. She pursued her Ph.D. in Computer Engineering at Universiti Malaysia Perlis, Malaysia, where her research focused on advanced machine learning algorithms for intelligent feature selection and audiogram classification, particularly for dementia-related hearing challenges. Her doctoral work combined theoretical depth with practical healthcare applications, reflecting her passion for problem-solving in real-world contexts. Before her doctoral journey, she earned her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Computer Engineering, establishing a clear path of academic excellence. Throughout her studies, she consistently integrated interdisciplinary approaches, combining signal processing, robotics, and optimization with biomedical engineering perspectives. Her education also included active participation in international workshops, seminars, and training programs, which broadened her global academic outlook. By blending rigorous technical expertise with innovative research themes, Dr. Elkhouly’s educational background forms a strong platform for her impactful contributions to both academia and industry.

Experience

Dr. Abeer Elkhouly’s professional journey reflects her ability to integrate teaching, research, and innovation across diverse environments. She has worked in academic institutions and research centers in Malaysia, Egypt, and the UAE, where she contributed as a lecturer, mentor, and researcher. Her academic career includes developing and delivering advanced courses in computer engineering, artificial intelligence, and robotics while guiding students in research and practical projects. Beyond teaching, she has played an active role in securing and contributing to competitive research grants, focusing on healthcare technology, optimization systems, and autonomous robotics. She is also engaged in editorial and reviewing roles, including serving as editor for MethodsX (Elsevier) and reviewer for IEEE and other indexed journals, reflecting her expertise in scholarly publishing. In addition, she actively organizes international conferences and academic integrity initiatives, expanding her leadership in professional networks. Her experience demonstrates a well-rounded blend of academic dedication, collaborative research, and global engagement.

Research Interest

Dr. Abeer Elkhouly’s research interests span across Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Intelligent Systems, with a strong focus on healthcare applications. She is deeply engaged in developing advanced algorithms for feature selection, classification, and optimization to solve complex problems in audiology, dementia care, and biomedical signal processing. Robotics and autonomous systems form another core of her research, particularly in designing intelligent robots capable of adaptive learning and efficient task performance. She is also interested in predictive analytics, big data processing, and deep learning frameworks for improving decision-making in critical domains such as healthcare diagnostics, smart systems, and resource optimization. Her research is characterized by a multidisciplinary approach that integrates computer engineering with medical technology, bridging the gap between computational methods and human health challenges. By pursuing innovations at the intersection of AI and real-life applications, Dr. Elkhouly’s work contributes to advancing technologies that directly improve quality of life.

Award and Honor

Throughout her career, Dr. Abeer Elkhouly has been recognized for her dedication to research excellence and academic leadership. She has received awards for outstanding research presentations at international conferences, highlighting the global relevance of her scientific contributions. Her publications in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports and Applied Sciences have earned strong academic visibility, bringing acknowledgment from the broader scientific community. Beyond research, she has been honored for her editorial and reviewing contributions, including her role as an editor at Elsevier’s MethodsX and as a peer reviewer for IEEE and Scopus-indexed journals. She is also a respected member of leading professional organizations including IEEE, ACM, and WATTLE, which reflects her recognized standing in the international academic arena. Additionally, her leadership role in co-founding the Centre for Academic Integrity in the UAE demonstrates her commitment to ethical research practices. These distinctions collectively underscore her influence and achievements in academia and innovation.

Publication Top Notes

Title: AI Driven Wildfire Prediction in Australia Using Machine Learning for Effective Disaster Prevention
Authors: Zina Abohaia, Abeer Elkhouly, Mai Elbarachi
Year: 2025

Title: Weather Forecasts-Based Machine Learning Models to Predict Wildfire Characteristics
Authors: Zina Abohaia, Abeer Elkhouly, Mai Elbarachi
Year: 2025

Title: A Novel Method to Identify and Classify Deterioration of Orange Juice
Authors: Saharsh Madassery, Abeer Elkhouly, Mohd Fareq Abd Malek
Year: 2024

Title: Augmented Deep Learning for Enhanced Early Brain Tumor Detection
Authors: Abeer Elkhouly, Mahmoud Kakouri, Mohamed Safwan, Obada Al Khatib
Year: 2024

Title: Enhanced Construction Site Debris Management Using Deep Learning Classifiers for Future Remote Robotics Integration
Authors: Obai Alashram, Abeer Elkhouly
Year: 2024

Title: Machine Learning Enhancing a Compact Wearable Device for Stepping Management
Authors: Abeer Elkhouly, Nejad Alagha, Rahim Mutlu
Year: 2024

Title: Intelligent Multi-stage Feature Selection for Audiogram Classification in Designing Dementia Patient’s Hearing Aid (Ph.D. Thesis)
Authors: Abeer Mohamed Abdelghani Elkhouly
Year: 2023

Title: Study of the Impact of Tutor’s Support and Undergraduate Student’s Academic Satisfaction
Authors: A. Hysaj, Abeer Elkhouly, A.W. Qureshi, N. Abdulaziz
Year: 2019
Citations: 19

Title: Data-driven Audiogram Classifier Using Data Normalization and Multi-stage Feature Selection
Authors: Abeer Elkhouly, A.M. Andrew, H.A. Rahim, N. Abdulaziz, M.F.A. Malek, S. Siddique
Year: 2023
Citations: 15

Title: Analysis of Engineering Students’ Academic Satisfaction in a Culturally Diverse University
Authors: A. Hysaj, Abeer Elkhouly, A.W. Qureshi, N. Abdulaziz
Year: 2018
Citations: 15

Title: Why Do Students Plagiarize? The Case of Multicultural Students in an Australian University in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: A. Hysaj, Abeer Elkhouly
Year: 2020
Citations: 12

Conclusion

Dr. Abeer Elkhouly embodies the qualities of a modern researcher who combines academic excellence, innovative thinking, and a commitment to community advancement. Her educational background, rooted in computer engineering and enriched by doctoral research in Malaysia, provided the tools to explore transformative applications of artificial intelligence in healthcare and robotics. Professionally, she has balanced teaching, mentoring, and collaborative projects across multiple countries, demonstrating her ability to adapt and lead in diverse academic and research environments. Her research interests—spanning AI-driven healthcare systems, intelligent robotics, and data optimization—position her at the intersection of technology and human well-being. The recognition she has earned through awards, editorial roles, and professional memberships reflects not only her achievements but also her influence in shaping research directions globally. With her vision for innovation and dedication to ethical scholarship, Dr. Elkhouly continues to inspire future generations while contributing significantly to the advancement of science and technology.

 

Francisco Javier Álvaro Afonso | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Francisco Javier Álvaro Afonso | Artificial Intelligence | Best Researcher Award

Universidad Complutense De Madrid, Spain

Prof. Dr. Francisco Javier Álvaro-Afonso is a visionary clinical researcher specializing in diabetic foot osteomyelitis, blending podiatry, pharmacy, and cutting-edge AI diagnostics. Holding a PhD in Podiatry, he excels in pioneering non-invasive strategies for bone infection detection, leveraging radiographic interpretation and deep learning models to reshape clinical decision-making. With a robust h-index and over 1,500 citations, his scholarly footprint spans high-impact journals and international collaborations. He balances academic rigor with real-world impact, guiding best practices through his clinical experience at Complutense University and the Diabetic Foot Unit. His work empowers both patients and practitioners with smarter, faster, and more accurate diagnostic tools, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life. Innovative, interdisciplinary, and deeply committed to transforming diabetic foot care, Prof. Álvaro-Afonso consistently sets a high bar for research excellence and patient-centered innovation.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar  | Scopus ProfileORCID Profile

Education

Prof. Dr. Francisco Javier Álvaro Afonso possesses a diverse and robust academic background that forms the foundation of his professional excellence. He earned his PhD in Podiatry from the Complutense University of Madrid, focusing his thesis on the interobserver variability of the probe-to-bone test and plain radiographs in diagnosing diabetic foot osteomyelitis. This was preceded by an Official Master’s Degree in Healthcare Research from the same institution, which strengthened his expertise in evidence-based medical practices. His academic journey also includes a Degree in Podiatry, completed, and a Degree in Pharmacy obtained, both from the Complutense University of Madrid. This multidisciplinary education enables him to merge clinical knowledge with pharmaceutical insights, allowing a more holistic approach to patient care. His formal education, characterized by both breadth and depth, has played a critical role in shaping his innovative research and teaching methodologies in healthcare sciences.

Experience

Prof. Dr. Francisco Javier Álvaro Afonso serves as a full-time professor in the Department of Nursing at the Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy, and Podiatry at the Complutense University of Madrid. In this role, he contributes extensively to the academic development of students while advancing research in podiatric medicine. Beyond academia, he practices as a Deputy Podiatrist at the Diabetic Foot Unit of the University Podiatric Clinic at UCM, where he applies his clinical expertise to improve patient outcomes. He is also an active research member of the Interdisciplinary Diabetic Foot Study Group at the Health Research Institute of Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC) in Madrid. His professional experience reflects a seamless integration of teaching, research, and clinical service, allowing him to translate scientific findings into practical healthcare solutions. His leadership extends to coordinating innovative technology transfer projects, bridging the gap between medical research and its application in everyday clinical settings.

Research Interest

Prof. Dr. Francisco Javier Álvaro Afonso’s research interests lie at the intersection of clinical podiatry, diagnostic imaging, and artificial intelligence applications in healthcare. His work primarily focuses on the diagnosis and management of diabetic foot osteomyelitis, a serious complication that significantly impacts patient mobility and quality of life. He has developed advanced diagnostic strategies that enhance the accuracy of plain radiograph interpretation and has contributed to refining clinical diagnostic tools used in global practice. Additionally, he explores the use of artificial intelligence for automated detection of osteomyelitis, aiming to reduce diagnostic delays and improve treatment outcomes. His research has had a direct impact on international guidelines, ensuring that evidence-based practices are adopted worldwide. With a commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, his work continues to bridge the gap between clinical expertise and emerging technologies, setting new standards for diabetic foot care and related healthcare challenges.

Award and Honor

Throughout his career, Prof. Dr. Francisco Javier Álvaro Afonso has received notable recognition for his contributions to podiatric medicine and healthcare research. He has been invited to speak at prestigious international conferences across Europe and Latin America, sharing his expertise with academic and clinical audiences. His reputation as a leading researcher is further evidenced by his role as a reviewer and invited editor for high-impact scientific journals in diabetic foot research and medical imaging. He has also served as principal investigator and coordinator for innovative teaching and healthcare technology projects, many of which have received institutional and academic commendations. These honors reflect his commitment to advancing both the science and practice of podiatric medicine, as well as his dedication to mentoring the next generation of researchers and clinicians. His awards and professional distinctions underscore his position as a respected and influential figure in his field.

Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Analysis of transfer lesions in patients who underwent surgery for diabetic foot ulcers located on the plantar aspect of the metatarsal heads
    Authors: RJ Molines‐Barroso, JL Lazaro‐Martinez, J Aragon‐Sanchez, FJ Álvaro-Afonso, et al.
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 101

  • Title: Clinical efficacy of therapeutic footwear with a rigid rocker sole in the prevention of recurrence in patients with diabetes mellitus and diabetic polineuropathy: A randomized trial
    Authors: M López-Moral, JL Lázaro-Martínez, E García-Morales, Y García-Álvarez, FJ Álvaro-Afonso, et al.
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 83

  • Title: Metalloproteinases in chronic and acute wounds: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
    Authors: A Tardáguila‐García, E García‐Morales, JM García‐Alamino, FJ Álvaro-Afonso, et al.
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 81

  • Title: The best way to reduce reulcerations: if you understand biomechanics of the diabetic foot, you can do it
    Authors: JL Lázaro-Martínez, J Aragón-Sánchez, FJ Álvaro-Afonso, et al.
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 71

  • Title: Topical treatment for plantar warts: A systematic review
    Authors: S García‐Oreja, FJ Álvaro‐Afonso, Y García‐Álvarez, E García‐Morales, et al.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 67

  • Title: Clinical and Histological Outcomes of Negatively Charged Polystyrene Microspheres Applied Daily Versus Three Times per Week in Hard-to-Heal Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Randomized Blinded Controlled Trial
    Authors: José Luis Lázaro-Martínez, Marta García-Madrid, Mateo López-Moral, Aroa Tardáguila-García, Francisco Javier Álvaro-Afonso, Yolanda García-Álvarez
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Comparative Clinical Outcomes of Patients with Diabetic Foot Infection Caused by MRSA or MSSA
    Authors: Francisco Javier Álvaro-Afonso, Esther García-Morales, Mateo López-Moral, Luis Alou-Cervera, Raúl Molines-Barroso, José Luis Lázaro-Martínez
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 6

  • Title: Effect of physical activity on tissue perfusion in patients with diabetes mellitus: Systematic review and meta-analysis
    Authors: Laura Palacios-Abril, Aroa Tardáguila-García, Francisco Javier Álvaro-Afonso, Sara García-Oreja, Sol Tejeda-Ramírez, José Luis Lázaro-Martínez
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Using Artificial Intelligence for Detecting Diabetic Foot Osteomyelitis: Validation of Deep Learning Model for Plain Radiograph Interpretation
    Authors: Francisco Javier Álvaro-Afonso, Aroa Tardáguila-García, Mateo López-Moral, Irene Sanz-Corbalán, Esther García-Morales, José Luis Lázaro-Martínez
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Clinical Effects of Weekly and Biweekly Low-Frequency Ultrasound Debridement Versus Standard of Wound Care in Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial
    Authors: Sebastián Flores-Escobar, Yolanda García-Álvarez, Francisco Javier Álvaro-Afonso, Mateo López-Moral, Marta García-Madrid, José Luis Lázaro-Martínez
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Red-Laser Photodynamic Therapy with Toluidine Blue Gel as an Adjuvant to Topical Antifungal Treatments for Onychomycosis in Patients with Diabetes: A Prospective Case Series
    Authors: David Navarro-Pérez, Sara García-Oreja, Francisco Javier Álvaro-Afonso, Mateo López-Moral, José Luis Lázaro-Martínez, Aroa Tardáguila-García
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Diode Laser and Red-Laser Photodynamic Therapy with Toluidine Blue Gel for the Treatment of Onychomycosis: A Case Series
    Authors: Sara García-Oreja, Francisco Javier Álvaro-Afonso, Aroa Tardáguila-García, David Navarro-Pérez, Esther Alicia García-Morales, José Luis Lázaro-Martínez
    Year: 2025

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Francisco Javier Álvaro-Afonso’s research corpus demonstrates a consistent and impactful focus on diabetic foot complications, wound healing, biomechanics, and innovative treatment approaches. His contributions span randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, biomechanical studies, and the integration of artificial intelligence in diagnostic imaging. With multiple high-citation works, particularly in diabetic foot biomechanics and wound care, his publications have significantly influenced clinical practices and preventive strategies worldwide. His recent explorations into laser therapy, ultrasound debridement, and AI-powered diagnostics highlight his forward-looking approach to improving patient outcomes in podiatric medicine.