Bahia Abdallah | Nursing and Health Professions | Women Researcher Award

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Women Researcher Award

Bahia Abdallah
Affiliation Lebanese American University
Country Lebanon
Scopus ID 16308959800
Documents 17
Citations 247
h-index 7
Subject Area Nursing and Health Professions
Event International Academic Achievements & Awards

Bahia Abdallah
Lebanese American University, Lebanon
Bahia Abdallah, is an academic nursing leader, healthcare educator, neonatal specialist, and public health professional affiliated with the Lebanese American University (LAU), Lebanon. With over three decades of multidisciplinary professional experience, her academic and research activities encompass maternal and child health, neonatal intensive care, breastfeeding science, nursing education, infant nutrition, healthcare systems strengthening, and nursing accreditation processes.[1]

Her professional contributions integrate clinical nursing practice, higher education leadership, international consultancy, neonatal research, healthcare policy development, and interdisciplinary collaboration across Lebanon and international healthcare networks.[2]

Abstract

Bahia Abdallah, is a nursing academic, healthcare educator, and neonatal specialist with more than 30 years of professional experience in nursing education, maternal and child health, neonatal intensive care, breastfeeding promotion, and healthcare leadership. As Assistant Dean and Director at the Alice Ramez Chagoury School of Nursing, Lebanese American University, she has contributed extensively to nursing accreditation, curriculum development, healthcare policy, and interdisciplinary education. Her research focuses on neonatal outcomes, breastfeeding science, infant nutrition, and nursing practice improvement, supported by peer-reviewed publications, funded projects, and international professional collaborations.[3]

Keywords

Nursing Education; Neonatal Intensive Care; Maternal Health; Breastfeeding Research; Infant Nutrition; Public Health; Lactation Science; Healthcare Accreditation; Neonatology; Nursing Leadership; Child Health; Healthcare Policy

Introduction

Bahia Abdallah El-Moufti serves as Assistant Dean, Assistant Professor, and Director of the Alice Ramez Chagoury School of Nursing at Lebanese American University. Her educational background includes a PhD in Nursing and Health Sciences from the University of Dundee, a Master of Public Health degree, a Teaching Diploma in Health Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the American University of Beirut.[1]

Her academic trajectory reflects substantial experience in nursing education, neonatal intensive care, breastfeeding promotion, accreditation systems, curriculum development, and interdisciplinary healthcare training.[2]

Research Profile

  • Maternal and Child Health
  • Neonatal Intensive Care and Infant Outcomes
  • Breastfeeding Research and Lactation Science
  • Nursing Education and Curriculum Development
  • Healthcare Workforce Development
  • Psychosocial Determinants of Health
  • Interprofessional Education
  • Public Health and Infant Feeding Policy

Research Contributions

Her scholarly contributions include investigations into infant massage interventions, neonatal pain responses, breastfeeding determinants, healthcare professional wellbeing, neonatal microbiota transmission, infant feeding practices, and healthcare delivery systems during crises.[4]

She has led and collaborated on funded projects examining breastfeeding practices during economic crises, emotional exhaustion among nurses, health equity competencies, and determinants influencing healthcare outcomes among vulnerable populations.[5]

Selected Publications

Bahia Abdallah has contributed extensively to nursing and healthcare research through peer-reviewed publications focusing on neonatal intensive care, breastfeeding outcomes, infant massage interventions, maternal and child health, nursing education, and public health. Her scholarly work demonstrates sustained contributions to evidence-based nursing practice and healthcare advancement.

Research Impact

The research activities of Bahia Abdallah El-Moufti demonstrate translational healthcare impact through evidence-based nursing interventions, neonatal care optimization, breastfeeding policy implementation, healthcare capacity building, and educational leadership initiatives. Her work contributes to nursing education quality enhancement, infant nutrition advancement, and maternal-child healthcare outcomes.

Award Suitability

Her multidisciplinary academic achievements, sustained professional leadership, research productivity, healthcare consultancy activities, policy development engagement, and educational contributions indicate alignment with international academic recognition frameworks focused on research excellence, healthcare innovation, and professional leadership in nursing and public health.

Conclusion

Bahia Abdallah El-Moufti has developed an academic portfolio integrating scholarship, healthcare leadership, policy engagement, nursing education, and public health advancement. Her contributions to maternal and neonatal healthcare, breastfeeding science, healthcare systems improvement, and interdisciplinary nursing education establish a profile characterized by sustained scholarly engagement and professional service.

References

    1. Abdallah B., Whitford H., Bradbury-Jones C., Jones M. (2021). Journal of Clinical Nursing.
      https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.15564
    2. Abdallah, B., Sharara, E., Nicolas, P., Sacre, H., El Khoury, C. F., Salameh, P., Haddad, C., Karam, J., & Rizk, R. (2025). Factors Associated With Breastfeeding Outcomes in Lebanon: A National Cross-Sectional Study. Food Science & Nutrition, 13(8), e70767.
      DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.70767
    3. Abdallah, B., Whitford, H., Bradbury-Jones, C., & Jones, M. (2021). Perceptions and attitudes of parents and healthcare professionals about the option of using infant massage in neonatal intensive care units. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 30(3–4), 499–507.
      DOI:https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.15564
    4. Badr, L. K., Abdallah, B., & Kahale, L. (2015). A Meta-Analysis of Preterm Infant Massage: An Ancient Practice With Contemporary Applications. MCN: The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing, 40(6), 344–358.
      DOI:https://doi.org/10.1097/NMC.0000000000000177
    5. Abdallah B. et al. Food Science & Nutrition.
      https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.70767

Heather Platter | Health Professions | Innovative Research Award

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Innovative Research Award

Heather Platter
Affiliation University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Public Health Sciences
Country United States
Scopus ID 57192999339
Documents 7
Citations 102
h-index 5
Subject Area Health Professions
Event International Academic Achievements & Awards

Heather Platter
University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Public Health Sciences,United States

Heather Platter, is a public health scientist and academic researcher whose work centers on cancer prevention, health literacy, behavioral health communication, health decision-making, and cancer survivorship research. Currently serving as Assistant Professor in the Department of Public Health Sciences at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, Dr. Platter has developed an interdisciplinary research portfolio that integrates qualitative methods, behavioral science, health communication frameworks, and implementation research to improve public health outcomes.[1]

Abstract

Heather Platter, is a public health researcher specializing in cancer prevention, health literacy, behavioral science, and health communication. Her academic work focuses on improving informed decision-making, reducing health misinformation, and enhancing communication strategies related to cancer screening, survivorship, and public health interventions. Through interdisciplinary research integrating qualitative and quantitative methodologies, she has contributed to advancing evidence-based health communication practices. Her scholarly achievements, leadership roles, funded research initiatives,and mentorship activities demonstrate an ongoing commitment to improving population health outcomes and strengthening public health systems.[2]

Keywords

Public Health • Cancer Prevention • Health Literacy • Behavioral Science • Cancer Communication • Risk Communication • Cancer Survivorship • Mixed Methods Research • Health Decision-Making • Tobacco Control • Community Health • Health Misinformation

Introduction

Platter completed undergraduate and graduate training at the University of Florida before earning a Doctor of Philosophy in Behavioral and Community Health from the University of Maryland. Additional graduate certificates in Global Health, Social and Behavioral Public Health, and Non-Profit Management strengthened her interdisciplinary academic foundation.[1]

Her postdoctoral fellowship at the National Cancer Institute contributed significantly to her expertise in behavioral research, cancer prevention, and public communication strategies. She later joined the University of Virginia School of Medicine as Assistant Professor, continuing work at the intersection of communication science and population health.[3]

Research Profile

  • Cancer prevention communication research
  • Health literacy assessment and intervention science
  • Behavioral public health
  • Cancer screening communication
  • Risk visualization methodologies
  • Health misinformation mitigation strategies
  • Qualitative and mixed-methods research
  • Patient-provider communication studies

Research Contributions

Platter has contributed to understanding health literacy challenges and communication barriers affecting informed health decisions. Her studies examining health insurance literacy among cancer survivors have expanded understanding of decision-making complexities experienced by patients navigating cancer treatment systems.[4]

Her work investigating cancer screening information-seeking behaviors before and during the COVID-19 pandemic contributed evidence regarding communication adaptation during public health emergencies.[5]

Research involving health misinformation interventions explored psychological inoculation and self-affirmation approaches for improving public resilience against misleading health information.

Publications

Heather Platter’s publication record reflects significant contributions to public health communication, cancer prevention, health literacy, and behavioral science. Her peer-reviewed research addresses cancer survivorship, health misinformation, screening communication, and patient decision-making. Through interdisciplinary scholarship published in respected journals, her work advances evidence-based approaches to improving health communication strategies and public health outcomes.

Research Impact

Platter’s work demonstrates sustained influence across cancer prevention, health communication, and literacy research. Citation activity reported within her academic record reflects uptake of her work by scholars investigating behavioral science, communication frameworks, and preventive medicine. Leadership appointments within the National Cancer Institute and mentoring activities further indicate broader contributions beyond publication output.

Award Suitability

Heather Platter demonstrates characteristics commonly associated with academic recognition in public health sciences, including sustained scholarly productivity, interdisciplinary research development, mentorship contributions, leadership service, funded research participation, and innovation in communication science. Her work connecting health literacy and cancer prevention supports broader public health objectives aimed at improving informed decision-making and health equity.

Conclusion

Heather Platter has developed a research portfolio positioned at the intersection of behavioral science, communication, and cancer prevention. Through scholarly publications, mentorship, leadership activities, and translational health communication research, her contributions reflect ongoing efforts to improve evidence-based public health practice and cancer prevention communication systems.[1]

References

  1. Platter, H. N., Vanderpool, R. C., Davidoff, A. J., de Moor, J. S., & Williams, C. P. (2025). Understanding cancer survivor cost communication experiences and preferences. Supportive Care in Cancer, 33, 450. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-025-09506-6
  2. Williams, C., Platter, H., Davidoff, A., Vanderpool, R., Pisu, M., & de Moor, J. (2023). “It’s just not easy to understand”: Health insurance literacy and insurance plan decision-making in cancer survivors. Cancer Medicine, 12(14), 15424–15434. https://doi.org/10.1002/cam4.6133
  3. Seidenberg, A. B., Wiseman, K. P., Eck, R. H., Blake, K. D., Platter, H., & Klein, W. M. P. (2022). Alcohol consumption, awareness of alcohol as a carcinogen, and support for alcohol control policies. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 62(2), 174–182. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2021.07.005
  4. Iles, I. A., Gillman, A. S., Platter, H., Ferrer, R. A., & Klein, W. M. P. (2021). Investigating the potential of inoculation messages and self-affirmation in reducing the effects of health science misinformation. Science Communication, 43(6), 768–804. https://doi.org/10.1177/10755470211048480
  5. Platter, H., & Pokorny, S. (2017). Smoke-free signage in public parks: Impacts on smoking behaviour. Tobacco Control, 27(4), 470–473. https://doi.org/10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2016-053624

Mr. Temesgen Ayenew | Nursing | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Temesgen Ayenew | Nursing | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Temesgen Ayenew | Nursing – Lecturer at Debre Markos University, Ethiopia

Temesgen Ayenew is an accomplished academic and researcher specializing in Emergency and Critical Care Nursing. With an extensive portfolio of scientific contributions, Dr. Ayenew has gained recognition for addressing vital healthcare challenges in Ethiopia and other low-resource settings. His work consistently demonstrates evidence-based practice, clinical relevance, and public health impact, particularly in hospital preparedness, intensive care outcomes, and nursing performance. Dr. Ayenew is known for his collaborative nature, academic dedication, and commitment to the advancement of healthcare delivery through research.

Profile Verified:

ORCID | Scopus

Education:

Temesgen Ayenew received his formal education in nursing and emergency medicine from the prestigious School of Medicine at Addis Ababa University. His academic training focused on critical care and emergency response, providing a solid foundation for his research into acute medical services, disaster management, and intensive care unit (ICU) practices. His education has not only empowered him to pursue teaching roles but also to lead complex, evidence-based research projects that directly impact policy and practice in health systems.

Experience:

Currently serving as a lecturer at Debre Markos University, College of Health Sciences, Dr. Ayenew brings several years of academic experience both in teaching and research. His professional background includes active membership in the Ethiopian Nurses Association and the Ethiopian Society of Emergency Professionals. These roles enable him to maintain strong links with healthcare practice, ensuring that his research remains grounded in real-world clinical challenges. Additionally, he has played key roles in national-level studies and training programs related to emergency preparedness and hospital response.

Research Interest:

Dr. Ayenew’s research interests lie in critical care outcomes, emergency medicine, nursing practice, disaster preparedness, occupational health, and systematic reviews. He is particularly focused on examining the quality of healthcare services, the preparedness of emergency units, and mortality patterns in intensive care units. He has a strong affinity for meta-analysis, enabling him to synthesize evidence and provide actionable insights. His work strives to bridge gaps between policy, education, and bedside clinical practice.

Selected Publications:

📘 Palliative care utilisation globally by cancer patients: systematic review and meta-analysis (BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care, 2025) – Cited by 11 articles. This study highlights disparities in palliative care utilization and emphasizes the need for policy integration in cancer care.
📊 Prevalence of Post-intensive care syndrome among ICU survivors: Systematic review and meta-analysis (PLOS One, 2025) – Cited by 14 articles. The research reveals the psychological and physical toll on ICU survivors, calling for structured post-discharge care models.
🛡️ Personal Protective Equipment Utilization among factory workers in Ethiopia (Environmental Health Insights, 2025) – Cited by 9 articles. This study sheds light on occupational health gaps and factors influencing PPE compliance.
🔥 Knowledge levels of healthcare professionals toward disaster preparedness (International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences, 2024) – Cited by 12 articles. The findings stress the need for training and institutional planning to manage large-scale emergencies.
💉 Oxygen therapy practice and associated factors among nurses (African Journal of Emergency Medicine, 2024) – Cited by 6 articles. The article focuses on the quality of care delivery in respiratory support within critical care settings.
📉 Prevalence of mortality among mechanically ventilated patients in Ethiopian ICUs (PLOS One, 2024) – Cited by 10 articles. It exposes alarming mortality rates and highlights resource and staffing challenges.
👵 Prevalence and types of elder abuse in Sub-Saharan Africa (Journal of the National Medical Association, 2024) – Cited by 8 articles.

Awards:

While Dr. Ayenew has not yet received major international research awards, he has been recognized within institutional settings for his scholarly contributions and dedication to student mentorship. He has secured competitive research funding for projects addressing disaster preparedness in Ethiopian hospitals and remains a strong candidate for broader recognition based on his consistent academic performance and impactful publications.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Temesgen Ayenew exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher through his academic rigor, ethical integrity, and commitment to community health. His research is not only prolific but deeply aligned with real-world clinical problems, particularly in low-resource environments. Through extensive collaborations, high-impact publications, and strong engagement in professional networks, Dr. Ayenew continues to shape the future of emergency care and nursing education in Ethiopia. Nominating him for the Best Researcher Award is both a recognition of his past achievements and an encouragement for his continued contribution to global health research.

 

 

 

Mukovhe Rammela | Nursing and Health Professions | Young Scientist Award

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Ms. Mukovhe Rammela | Nursing and Health Professions | Young Scientist Award

PhD student in Public Health at University of Venda, South Africa

Mukovhe Rammela is an experienced and strategic health professional with over 8 years of expertise in health system strengthening, program coordination, mentoring, and quality improvement. She has led diverse teams in various roles, including Nurse Mentor, District Nurse Coordinator, and currently serves as the District TB Quality Improvement Officer at IHPS in Johannesburg. Mukovhe’s extensive work includes facilitating quality improvement initiatives, mentoring healthcare staff, and ensuring high-quality care across multiple health districts. Her passion lies in improving healthcare services, especially in TB/HIV, STI, and key population care.

Profile

ORCID

Education🎓📚

Mukovhe holds a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the Management College of South Africa (MANCOSA) and a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) from the University of Venda. She also earned her Bachelor’s in Nursing Sciences (BCURP) from the University of Venda and has pursued various advanced certifications in Monitoring and Evaluation, Health Care Management, and Systematic Reviews. She is currently working towards a Post Graduate Diploma in Healthcare Management, with a focus on Quality Improvement and Project Management at Stellenbosch University.

Experience👩‍⚕️💼

Mukovhe’s career has spanned multiple roles focused on health systems and quality improvement. As a Quality Improvement Officer at Johannesburg Health District (2023-present), she collaborates with sub-district teams to monitor and improve healthcare services. Her previous roles included leading the Key Population Program as a District Nurse Coordinator and mentoring staff in the APACE project at Anova Health Institute. Mukovhe has also managed clinical practices at Magalies Hills Center and Elim Clinic, focusing on integrated care and capacity building in TB, HIV, and STI services.

Research Interest🔬📊

Mukovhe’s research interests are centered around health system strengthening, quality improvement, and HIV/TB care integration. She is passionate about developing evidence-based solutions to improve healthcare delivery, especially for vulnerable populations like sex workers and youth. Her work also focuses on monitoring and evaluation and using data to improve healthcare outcomes.

Award🏆🎖️

Mukovhe has received several prestigious awards, recognizing her contributions to healthcare and research. These include the National Research Foundation Doctoral Scholarship in 2022, the Sustainable Academic Capacity Building for Excellence through Research and Training Programme (SACERT) Scholarship, and the Cochrane South Africa Bursary Award in 2021. Her commitment to research and healthcare improvement has also been acknowledged by the National Research Foundation Masters Scholarship Award in 2018.

Publication📑🌍

Mukovhe has contributed to important research in public health, including her research article titled “An Integrated Approach to HIV, STI, and Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Services in Africa” presented at the University of Venda Research Symposium in 2021. This publication was a comprehensive literature review aimed at improving health services in Africa. Her research proposal on Integrated HIV and STI Prevention was also presented at the Department of Health Provincial Office Research Day in 2021.
For more details on the publications, visit:

Evaluating the Implementation of Adolescent- and Youth-Friendly Services in the Selected Primary Healthcare Facilities in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province

  • Published: November 21, 2024
    Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
    DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21121543
    Authors: Mukovhe Rammela,

The article evaluates adolescent- and youth-friendly services (AYFS) in Vhembe District, South Africa, highlighting successes and gaps based on WHO standards​

Epilepsy in rural South Africa: Patient experiences and healthcare challenges

  • Published: August 2024
    Journal: Epilepsia Open
    DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12999
    Authors: Mukovhe Rammela

This study explores patient experiences with epilepsy and the healthcare challenges they face in rural South Africa

Conclusion🌟💪

Mukovhe Rammela’s combination of professional experience in public health, research achievements, educational qualifications, and leadership abilities makes her a strong and highly suitable candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award. Her commitment to improving health outcomes and her ongoing pursuit of knowledge through research are qualities that align well with the values of the award.

Dr. Debra A. Hrelic – Nursing – Excellence in Research

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Dr. Debra A. Hrelic - Nursing - Excellence in Research

University of North Carolina Wilmington - United States

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Debra A. Hrelic's journey in academia commenced with a strong foundation in nursing, culminating in a Ph.D. from the University of Connecticut in 2003. Prior to this, she earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Rutgers University in 1986 and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from William Paterson University in 1980. These formative years laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in nursing education and leadership.

Professional Endeavors

Throughout her career, Dr. Hrelic has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in nursing education and leadership. As a Clinical Associate Professor of Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW), she plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of nurses. Additionally, her role as the Academic Program Coordinator for the RN-BSN Program highlights her dedication to advancing nursing education, particularly in the online learning environment.

Contributions and Research Focus On Nursing

Dr. Hrelic's contributions extend beyond the classroom, encompassing research, service, and leadership roles. Her research interests span various areas of nursing, including professional practice, transcultural healthcare, complementary and alternative therapies, leadership, and nursing pedagogies. Furthermore, her leadership roles within UNCW, such as chairing the RN-BSN Committee and serving on numerous committees, underscore her commitment to advancing the nursing profession.

Accolades and Recognition In Nursing

Dr. Hrelic's achievements have been recognized through numerous honors and awards. Notably, she received the Nursing Excellence Award from the North Carolina Nurses Association in May 2022, acknowledging her leadership and excellence in nursing. Additionally, her contributions to nursing education were recognized through nominations for prestigious awards such as the Innovation & Excellence in Nursing RN-BS Education Award and the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Faculty.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Hrelic's influence extends beyond her accolades, shaping the landscape of nursing education and practice. As the Academic Program Coordinator for the RN-BSN Program at UNCW, she oversees a large cohort of students and faculty, ensuring the seamless delivery of courses and fostering a supportive learning environment. Her commitment to excellence and innovation has contributed to UNCW's recognition as one of the top online RN-BSN programs nationally.

Nursing encompasses the holistic care of individuals, families, and communities, promoting health, preventing illness, and alleviating suffering across the lifespan. It combines science, compassion, and skill to deliver evidence-based care in diverse healthcare settings. Nurses play vital roles as caregivers, educators, advocates, and leaders, addressing healthcare needs with professionalism and integrity From bedside care to research and policy development, nursing contributes to the advancement of healthcare and the improvement of patient outcomes. Nurses demonstrate excellence through clinical expertise, innovation, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Hrelic's legacy in nursing education and leadership is characterized by her dedication to excellence, innovation, and service. As she continues her role as a Clinical Associate Professor and Academic Program Coordinator at UNCW, she remains committed to advancing nursing education, promoting diversity and inclusion, and fostering the next generation of nurse leaders. Through her research, teaching, and leadership endeavors, Dr. Hrelic's impact on the nursing profession will endure for years to come. With a focus on quality, safety, and patient-centered care, nursing continues to evolve, meeting the dynamic needs of society and making significant contributions to the well-being of individuals and communities globally.

Notable Publications

Managing the unexpected: Stressors and solutions for challenges experienced by RN-BSN students during an unprecedented global pandemic 2022

Preterm Labor and Birth: A Clinical Review 2020

Managing the unexpected: Stressors and solutions for challenges experienced by RN-BSN students during an unprecedented global pandemic 2022