Mariana Petkova | Plant Biology | Women Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr Mariana Petkova |  Plant Biology |  Women Researcher Award

Microbiology and Molecular biology at  Agriculture University-Plovdiv,  Bulgaria

Mariana Krasimirova Petkova, PhD is an Assistant Professor at the Agricultural University – Plovdiv, Bulgaria, within the Faculty of Plant Protection and Agroecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecological Biotechnology. She earned her Master’s degree in Plant Protection from the Agricultural University in 1996 and completed her PhD in Molecular Biology at the University of Kobe, Japan, in 2002.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • Master of Plant Protection – Agricultural University, Plovdiv, 1996
  • PhD in Molecular Biology – University of Kobe, Japan, 2002

💼 Academic Positions:

  • 2010 – 2014: Assistant Professor, Faculty of Agronomy, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Agricultural University – Plovdiv
  • 2014 – Present: Assistant Professor, Faculty of Plant Protection and Agroecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecological Biotechnology, Agricultural University – Plovdiv

🔬 Research Interests:

Main Areas:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Gene Expression
  • Microbiology

Additional Areas:

  • Antimicrobials
  • Lactic Acid Bacteria & Yeast in Sourdoughs
  • Functional Foods

🌍 International Collaborations & Specializations:

  • JSPS Fellowship (2006-2009) – University of Osaka, Japan
  • HPLC Training (2011) – Budapest, Hungary
  • Borlaug Fellowship (2012) – North Dakota State University, USA
  • Food Traceability Course (2013) – Thessaloniki, Greece
  • Analytical Approaches Workshop (2016) – University of Food Technologies, Plovdiv

🏆 Awards & Memberships:

  • Member: Union of Scientists in Bulgaria (since 2011)

📊 Scientific Impact:

  • Citations: 154 (by 140 documents)
  • Publications: 23
  • h-index: 8

Publication Top Notes:

  • “Plant Growth-Promoting and Biocontrol Characteristics of Four Bacillus Strains and Evaluation of Their Effects on Wheat (Tr. aestivum L.)”
    International Journal of Plant Biology, 2024.
    DOI: 10.3390/ijpb16010001

  • “Positive Effect of Camelina Intercropping with Legumes on Soil Microbial Diversity by Applying NGS Analysis and Mobile Fluorescence Spectroscopy”
    Applied Sciences, 2024.
    DOI: 10.3390/app14199046

  • “Biological Control of Lettuce Drop (Sclerotinia minor Jagger) Using Antagonistic Bacillus Species”
    Applied Microbiology, 2024.
    DOI: 10.3390/applmicrobiol4030088

  • “Isolation and Selection of Sauerkraut Lactic Acid Bacteria Producing Exopolysaccharides”
    BIO Web of Conferences, 2023.
    DOI: 10.1051/bioconf/20235802001

  • “Metagenomic Approach Unravelling Bacterial Diversity in Combined Composting and Vermicomposting Technology of Agricultural Wastes”
    Ecologia Balkanica, 2023.

  • “Mutagenesis as a Tool for Enhancement of Fatty Acid Composition of Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)”
    Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science, 2023.

  • “On the Molecular Selection of Exopolysaccharide-Producing Lactic Acid Bacteria from Indigenous Fermented Plant-Based Foods and Further Fine Chemical Characterization”
    Foods, 2023.
    DOI: 10.3390/foods12183346

  • “Plant Traits of Tilia tomentosa Moench, Fraxinus excelsior L., and Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold as a Proxy of Urbanization”
    Forests, 2023.
    DOI: 10.3390/f14040800

  • “Revealing Fungal Diversity in Mesophilic and Thermophilic Habitats of Sewage Sludge Composting by Next-Generation Sequencing”
    Applied Sciences (Switzerland), 2023.
    DOI: 10.3390/app13095546

 

Zhizhou Ren | Agricultural Products | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Zhizhou Ren | Agricultural Products |  Best Researcher Award

postgraduate at College of Artificial Intelligence, Nanjing Agricultural University, China

Zhizhou Ren is a postgraduate researcher specializing in smart agriculture and non-destructive detection of agricultural products. His work focuses on integrating hyperspectral imaging, electronic noses, and deep learning for efficient wheat disease detection. He has published two SCI papers in high-impact journals and developed the GFNN model, achieving 98.76% accuracy in disease identification. Ren has contributed to four major collaborative projects and holds one patent. As a member of the China Electronics Society, he actively engages in research that enhances precision agriculture and food security.

Profile:

🔬 Research Focus:

Zhizhou Ren specializes in smart agriculture and non-destructive detection of agricultural products. His research integrates hyperspectral imaging, electronic noses, and deep learning algorithms to detect wheat diseases efficiently.

📚 Key Contributions:

  • Developed the GFNN model for detecting VOCs using an electronic nose, achieving 98.76% accuracy in wheat disease detection.
  • Published two SCI papers in Q1 and Q2 journals, including Agriculture-Basel and International Journal of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.
  • Holds one patent and has contributed to four major collaborative projects funded by Jiangsu Province.

🏆 Achievements & Collaborations:

  • Active member of the China Electronics Society.
  • Engaged in consultancy and industry projects, contributing to agricultural disease management and food security.
  • Participated in prestigious research programs, including the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province.

Citations:

Citations: 948 (All), 947 (Since 2020)
h-index: 11 (All), 11 (Since 2020)
i10-index: 11 (All), 11 (Since 2020)

Publication Top Notes:

  • QPLEX: Duplex Dueling Multi-Agent Q-Learning
    J. Wang, Z. Ren, T. Liu, Y. Yu, C. Zhang
    Ninth International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR 2021) – 550 citations

  • Exploration via Hindsight Goal Generation
    Z. Ren, K. Dong, Y. Zhou, Q. Liu, J. Peng
    Thirty-third Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2019) – 99 citations

  • Towards Understanding Cooperative Multi-Agent Q-Learning with Value Factorization
    J. Wang, Z. Ren, B. Han, J. Ye, C. Zhang
    Thirty-fifth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2021) – 61 citations

  • Proximal Exploration for Model-guided Protein Sequence Design
    Z. Ren, J. Li, F. Ding, Y. Zhou, J. Ma, J. Peng
    Thirty-ninth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2022) – 47 citations

  • Generalizable Episodic Memory for Deep Reinforcement Learning
    H. Hu, J. Ye, G. Zhu, Z. Ren, C. Zhang
    Thirty-eighth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2021) – 43 citations

  • Off-Policy Reinforcement Learning with Delayed Rewards
    B. Han, Z. Ren, Z. Wu, Y. Zhou, J. Peng
    Thirty-ninth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2022) – 41 citations

  • Learning Long-Term Reward Redistribution via Randomized Return Decomposition
    Z. Ren, R. Guo, Y. Zhou, J. Peng
    Tenth International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR 2022 Spotlight) – 39 citations

  • On the Estimation Bias in Double Q-Learning
    Z. Ren, G. Zhu, H. Hu, B. Han, J. Chen, C. Zhang
    Thirty-fifth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2021) – 24 citations

  • Self-Organized Polynomial-Time Coordination Graphs
    Q. Yang, W. Dong, Z. Ren, J. Wang, T. Wang, C. Zhang
    Thirty-ninth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2022) – 13 citations

  • Efficient Meta Reinforcement Learning for Preference-based Fast Adaptation
    Z. Ren, A. Liu, Y. Liang, J. Peng, J. Ma
    Thirty-sixth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2022) – 12 citations

  • Object-Oriented Dynamics Learning through Multi-Level Abstraction
    G. Zhu, J. Wang, Z. Ren, Z. Lin, C. Zhang
    Thirty-fourth AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AAAI 2020) – 11 citations

  • Full-Atom Peptide Design based on Multi-modal Flow Matching
    J. Li, C. Cheng, Z. Wu, R. Guo, S. Luo, Z. Ren, J. Peng, J. Ma
    Forty-first International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2024) – 7 citations

  • Enhancing Protein Mutation Effect Prediction through a Retrieval-Augmented Framework
    R. Guo, R. Wang, R. Wu, Z. Ren, J. Li, S. Luo, Z. Wu, Q. Liu, J. Peng, J. Ma
    Thirty-eighth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2024) – 1 citation

  • Bridging Distribution Gaps: Invariant Pattern Discovery for Dynamic Graph Learning
    Y. Jin, M. Wang, Y. Xiong, Z. Ren, C. Huo, F. Zhu, J. Zhang, G. Wang, H. Chen
    World Wide Web 27 (4), 44 (2024)

 

Simona Gavrilas | Plants | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs Simona Gavrilas | Plants |  Best Researcher Award

lecturer at ”Aurel Vlaicu” University of Arad, Romania

Simona Gavrilaș is a Lecturer at ”Aurel Vlaicu” University of Arad, Romania. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and specializes in Food Technology, Biotechnology, and Environmental Low-Impact Technologies. Since 2017, she has been actively engaged in teaching and research at the Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism, and Environmental Protection.

Profile:

🔬 Academic Background:

Simona Gavrilaș is a Lecturer at ”Aurel Vlaicu” University of Arad, Romania. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and has been teaching at the Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism, and Environmental Protection since 2017.

📚 Research & Innovations:

Her research focuses on Food Technology, Biotechnology, Food Quality Improvement, and Environmental Low-Impact Technologies. She has contributed significantly to food waste valorization and agrochemical research.

🏆 Achievements & Contributions:

  • Publications: 26 ISI journal articles, 6 books, and 2 internationally recognized book chapters.
  • Projects: Led 3 national projects, 5 research grants, and participated in international collaborations.
  • Editorial Roles: Member of the Journal of Natural Fibers editorial board and reviewer for several MDPI journals.
  • Recognitions: COST-STSM Grant beneficiary and evaluator for Romania’s Higher Education Quality Assurance Agency.

🌍 Impact & Research Vision:

Dr. Gavrilaș is dedicated to sustainable food systems by developing eco-friendly food technologies and enzyme-based treatments. Her work supports agricultural waste valorization for a greener future.

Citations:

Citations: 523 (Total), 366 (Since 2020)
h-index: 10 (Total), 9 (Since 2020)
i10-index: 10 (Total), 9 (Since 2020)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Recent Trends in Biosensors for Environmental Quality Monitoring – Sensors, 2022.
  • Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Selected Spice Extracts – International Journal of Food Properties, 2010.
  • New Potential Biocatalysts by Laccase Immobilization in PVA Cryogel Type Carrier – Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 2010.
  • Closing the Loop with Keratin-Rich Fibrous Materials – Polymers, 2021.
  • Salvia officinalis L. Essential Oil: Characterization, Antioxidant Properties, and the Effects of Aromatherapy in Adult Patients – Antioxidants, 2022.
  • Preparation of Immobilized Trametes pubescens Laccase on a Cryogel-Type Polymeric Carrier and Application of the Biocatalyst to Apple Juice Phenolic Compounds – European Food Research and Technology, 2012.
  • The Consumption of Organic, Traditional, and/or European Eco-Label Products: Elements of Local Production and Sustainability – Sustainability, 2021.
  • Removal of Cypermethrin from Water by Using Fucus Spiralis Marine Alga – International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2019.
  • Membrane-Active Peptides and Their Potential Biomedical Application – Pharmaceutics, 2023.
  • Characterization of the Complexing Agents’ Influence on Bioscouring Cotton Fabrics by FT-IR and TG/DTG/DTA Analysis – Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, 2018.
  • The Influence of Elevated CO₂ on Volatile Emissions, Photosynthetic Characteristics, and Pigment Content in Brassicaceae Plant Species and Varieties – Plants, 2022.
  • Comparative Study Regarding the Influence of the Complexing Agents EDTA and Sodium Citrate on the 50% Flax-50% Cotton Fabrics During the Bioscouring Treatment – International Multidisciplinary Scientific GeoConference: SGEM, 2016.
  • Commercial Laccase Oxidation of Phenolic Compounds – U.P.B. Scientific Bulletin, Series B: Chemistry and Material Sciences, 2012.
  • White Grape Pomace Valorization for Remediating Purposes – Applied Sciences, 2022.
  • Graphene-Oxide Peptide-Containing Materials for Biomedical Applications – International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2024.
  • Analysis of Sustainable Communication Patterns During the Telework Period in Western Romanian Corporations – International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2022.
  • TG/DTG Analysis of an Eco-Friendly Scoured Fabric – Revista de Chimie, 2019.
  • Study on the Influence of Ultrasound in Bioscouring Treatment of 50% Flax + 50% Cotton Fabrics – Annals of the University of Oradea, Fascicle of Textiles, Leatherwork, 2017.
  • Improving the Antioxidant Properties of Wild Raspberry Juice by Enzymatic Treatments – Revista de Chimie, 2016.
  • A Sustainable Nutritional Behavior in the Era of Climate Changes – Smart and Sustainable Technology for Resilient Cities and Communities, 2022.

 

Run Gao | Forage silage | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr  Run  Gao |  Forage silage |  Best Researcher Award

Research associate at  Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences ,  China

Run Gao is a Research Associate at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences. He earned his Ph.D. from China Agricultural University in 2021. His research primarily focuses on forage production and processing utilization, with a particular interest in the anaerobic fermentation of forage. Gao has made significant contributions to this field, including the discovery of the Monascus fungus, which is present in triticale silage and may promote fermentation during the grain-filling to milk-ripening stages. He has published three SCI papers as the first author and is actively involved in ongoing research projects related to forage fermentation.

Profile:

Academic and Professional Background:

Run Gao earned his Ph.D. from China Agricultural University in 2021. He is currently a research associate at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, focusing on forage production and processing utilization. His work primarily involves the anaerobic fermentation of forage.

Research and Contributions:

Run Gao has made significant contributions to agricultural research, particularly in the area of forage fermentation. He discovered the fungus Monascus, which is present in triticale silage and may promote fermentation during the grain-filling to milk-ripening stages. He has published three SCI papers as the first author and is involved in ongoing research projects.

Research Areas:

  • Anaerobic fermentation of forage
  • Forage production and processing utilization

Citations:

  • Citations: 143
  • Cited Documents: 129
  • h-index: 8

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Effect of Harvest Maturity and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Inoculant on Dynamics of Fermentation Characteristics and Bacterial and Fungal Community of Triticale Silage
    Agriculture (Switzerland), 2024, 14(10), 1707.
  2. Transcriptomic analysis of ncRNAs and mRNAs interactions during drought stress in switchgrass
    Plant Science, 2024, 339, 111930.
  3. Genome-wide characterization of LBD transcription factors in switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) and the involvement of PvLBD12 in salt tolerance
    Plant Cell Reports, 2023, 42(4), pp. 735–748.
  4. Panicum virgatum improvement of coastal saline-alkali soil and its feeding values
    Pratacultural Science, 2023, 40(6), pp. 1551–1558.
  5. Membership function analysis for concentrate-to-forage ratio and ensiling time in total mixed ration fermentation
    Pratacultural Science, 2023, 40(10), pp. 2711–2720.
  6. Associative effects of ensiling mixtures of sweet sorghum and korshinsk pea shrub on fermentation quality, chemical composition, and in vitro rumen digestion characteristics
    Animal Science Journal, 2022, 93(1), e13700.
  7. Evaluation of Sweet Sorghum as a High-Quality Forage in Pasture-livestock Industry Development
    Chinese Journal of Grassland, 2021, 43(3), pp. 104–112.
  8. Effect of mixing alfalfa with whole-plant corn in different proportions on fermentation characteristics and bacterial community of silage
    Agriculture (Switzerland), 2021, 11(2), pp. 1–11, 174.
  9. Effects of replacing ensiled-alfalfa with fresh-alfalfa on dynamic fermentation characteristics, chemical compositions, and protein fractions in fermented total mixed ration with different additives
    Animals, 2021, 11(2), pp. 1–16, 572.
  10. Effects of applying lactic acid bacteria and molasses on the fermentation quality, protein fractions and in vitro digestibility of baled alfalfa silage
    Agronomy, 2021, 11(1), 91.

 

Petya Veleva | Agricultural Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr Petya Veleva |  Agricultural Science |  Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Professor at  Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petya Marinova Veleva is an expert in automated systems, artificial intelligence, and precision agriculture. She holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology and Machine Tools and a PhD in Automation of Engineering Labor and Systems for Automated Design. Dr. Veleva’s research focuses on intelligent data analysis, agricultural safety, and the application of artificial neural networks and Near Infrared Spectroscopy in agriculture and food safety. She has collaborated with renowned institutions, including Kobe University (Japan) and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany), and has published 34 journal articles and 6 books.

Profile:

Academic & Professional Background:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petya Veleva holds a Master’s degree in “Mechanical Engineering Technology and Machine Tools” and a PhD in “Automation of the Engineering Labor and Systems for Automated Design.” Her research focuses on automated systems for data analysis, artificial intelligence in precision agriculture, intelligent animal husbandry, and food safety evaluation, with specializations in artificial neural networks, Near Infrared Spectroscopy, and Aquaphotomics. She has gained valuable international experience through JSPS Fellowship in Japan, and research mobility at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany) and the University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest (Romania).

Research & Innovations:

Dr. Veleva has completed 39 research projects and is currently involved in 6 ongoing projects. Her work has resulted in 34 journal publications (SCI, Scopus), 6 books, and 1 patent. She collaborates with prestigious institutions like Kobe University (Japan), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany), and the University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest (Romania). She is also a member of the editorial board of the journal SLOVJANI.info and has an h-index of 5 in Scopus.

Contributions:

Dr. Veleva’s research contributes to advancements in sustainable agriculture, smart crop production, and intelligent animal husbandry. Her work supports human health, bioeconomy, and quality of life through innovative applications of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in agriculture.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Impact of Different Sugar Syrups on the Development of the Fat Body in Worker Bees (Apis mellifera macedonica)
    Agriculture (2025-01-02)
    DOI: 10.3390/agriculture15010083
  • Exploring Microelement Fertilization and Visible–Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Enhanced Productivity in Capsicum annuum and Cyprinus carpio Aquaponic Systems
    Plants (2024-12-20)
    DOI: 10.3390/plants13243566
  • Differentiation of Amaranthus Species and Estimation of Their Polyphenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Potential Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
    Plants (2024-11-30)
    DOI: 10.3390/plants13233370
  • Assessment of Tomato Quality through Near-Infrared Spectroscopy—Advantages, Limitations, and Integration with Multivariate Analysis Techniques
    Conference Paper (2024-08-08)
    DOI: 10.3390/engproc2024070034
  • Indirect Determination of Basic Tomato Quality Parameters Using Color Digital Images
    Conference Paper (2024-08-06)
    DOI: 10.3390/engproc2024070024
  • Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Rapid Differentiation of Fresh and Frozen–Thawed Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
    Sensors (2024-06-04)
    DOI: 10.3390/s24113620
  • Evaluating the Performance and Practicality of a Multi-Parameter Assessment System with Design, Comparative Analysis, and Future Directions
    Sustainability (2024-05-14)
    DOI: 10.3390/su16104124
  • Detection of Fungal Diseases in Lettuce by VIR-NIR Spectroscopy in Aquaponics
    Microorganisms (2023)
    DOI: 10.3390/MICROORGANISMS11092348
  • Non-Destructive Determination of Plant Pigments Based on Mobile Phone Data
    TEM Journal-Technology Education Management Informatics (2023)
    DOI: 10.18421/TEM123-23
  • An Aquaphotomics Approach for Investigation of Water-Stress-Induced Changes in Maize Plants
    Sensors (2023-12-07)
    DOI: 10.3390/s23249678
  • Influence of Some Environmental Factors on Summer Phytoplankton Community Structure in the Varna Bay, Black Sea (1992–2019)
    Water (2023-04-25)
    DOI: 10.3390/w15091677

 

Joel Andrade | Plant Nutrition | Top Researcher Award

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Mr Joel Andrade |  Plant Nutrition |  Top Researcher Award

Federal Rural University of Pernambuco – UFRPE,  Brazil

Joel José de Andrade is a PhD student in Agronomy (Soil Science) at the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco (UFRPE). He holds a Master’s degree in Agronomy (Soil Science) (2021) and a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering (2019), both from UFRPE. His academic focus includes soil science, soil chemistry, and plant nutrition, particularly in the context of semi-arid regions.

 

Publication Profile

Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. Candidate in Agronomy (Soil Science), UFRPE (in progress)
  • Master’s in Agronomy (Soil Science), UFRPE (2021)
  • Bachelor’s in Agricultural Engineering, UFRPE (2019)

Research Focus:

Joel’s research primarily revolves around soil science, focusing on soil fertility, fertilization, and plant nutrition. His recent studies include strategies to enhance phosphate fertilization efficiency in sugarcane using phosphate-solubilizing bacteria. Other notable projects include the impact of land use changes on soil carbon in Pernambuco’s semiarid regions and the use of Atriplex sp. to rehabilitate saline soils for forage production.

Key Expertise:

  • Soil Chemistry and Fertility
  • Plant Mineral Nutrition
  • Sugarcane Growth and Management
  • Soil Salinity and Management

Publication Top Note:

  • Effects of elemental sulfur associated with gypsum on soil salinity attenuation and sweet sorghum growth under saline water irrigation
    Authors: JJ de Andrade, FJM de Oliveira, LGM Pessoa, SA dos Santos Nascimento, …
    Journal: Australian Journal of Crop Science, 12 (2), 221-226
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 25
  • Phosphorous availability in Argisols and sufficiency range in sugarcane in the Northeast of Brazil
    Authors: DB Costa, FJ Freire, JO Lemos, SRV Silva, NS Bezerra, PKB Andrade, …
    Journal: Revista Ciência Agronômica, 55, e20228530
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 1
  • Phosphorus agronomic efficiency index under different fertilizer application methods in two cycles of sugarcane cultivated in tropical soils
    Authors: D Batista da Costa, FJ Freire, JJ de Andrade, SRV da Silva, …
    Journal: Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 54 (17), 2376-2393
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 1
  • Eficiência da adubação nitrogenada foliar na cana-de-açúcar
    Author: JJ Andrade
    Institution: Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 1
  • Foliar Fertilization Improves the Nitrogen Nutrition of Sugarcane
    Authors: JJ Andrade, ECA Oliveira, AMS Lima, GPS Amorim, ES Oliveira, FJ Freire, …
    Journal: Agriculture, 14 (11), 1984
    Year: 2024
  • Biostimulant for sugarcane ripening in drip fertigated fields
    Authors: LB Silva, CM Santos, JJ Andrade, AMS Lima, AEB Rego, ECA Oliveira, …
    Journal: Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agrícola e Ambiental, 28 (4), e279092
    Year: 2024
  • Bioestimulante para maturação de cana-de-açúcar em lavouras fertirrigadas por gotejamento
    Authors: LB Silva, CM Santos, JJ Andrade, AMS Lima, AEB Rego, ECA de Oliveira, …
    Journal: Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agrícola e Ambiental, 28, e279092
    Year: 2024
  • Avaliação da matéria orgânica do solo em função da mudança da cobertura do solo no semiárido Pernambucano
    Authors: JJ de Andrade, EM Amaral, SA dos Santos Nascimento, GMB de Sousa, …
    Journal: Cadernos de Agroecologia, 15 (2)
    Year: 2020
  • Banco demonstrativo de sementes na região do Pajeú como ferramenta estratégica na extensão rural
    Authors: EM Amaral, SA dos Santos Nascimento, JJ de Andrade, TAF Jota, …
    Journal: Cadernos de Agroecologia, 15 (2)
    Year: 2020
  • Caracterização física e morfológica dos solos do Parque Estadual Mata da Pimenteira-PE
    Author: JJ Andrade
    Location: Brasil
    Year: 2019
  • ANÁLISE DE GERENCIAMENTO DE RESÍDUOS QUÍMICOS PRODUZIDOS POR LABORATÓRIOS DE PESQUISA E ENSINO DE NÍVEL SUPERIOR
    Authors: L de Andrade Bezerra, JJ de Andrade, NP de Souza, RC Silva, …
    Journal: GESTÃO INTEGRADA DE RESÍDUOS, 56

 

Moyses Nascimento | Plant breeding | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Moyses Nascimento |  Plant breeding |  Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at  Federal University of Vicosa, Brazil

Prof. Moysés Nascimento is an Associate Professor in the Department of Statistics at the Federal University of Viçosa, Brazil. He holds a Ph.D. in Statistics and Agricultural Experimentation from the Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Brazil. His research interests focus on statistical methods applied to agriculture, bioinformatics, and genomic selection, with significant expertise in cluster analysis and Monte Carlo Markov Chains.

 

Publication Profile

Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. in Statistics and Agricultural Experimentation (2011), Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Brazil
  • M.S. in Applied Statistics and Biometry (2009), Federal University of Viçosa (UFV), Brazil
  • B.S. in Statistics (2007), Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES), Brazil

Professional Experience:

  • Associate Professor, Federal University of Viçosa (UFV), Brazil (2010–present)
  • Visiting Scholar, University of Florida, USA (2023–2024)
  • Research Scholar, North Carolina State University, USA (2016–2017)
  • Graduate Research Assistant, Federal University of Lavras and Federal University of Viçosa

Research Interests:

  • Statistical methods applied to agriculture and genomics
  • Cluster analysis, bioinformatics, and Monte Carlo Markov Chains in genetic improvement
  • Neural networks and multivariate analysis applied to agronomy

Awards & Honors:

  • 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in the 2023 GDM 40th Anniversary Innovation Award
  • Emerald Literati Award (2019) for the paper on craft beer consumer market characterization
  • Best Paper Award, International Symposium on Genetics and Plant Breeding (2021)
  • Best Master’s Paper, Brazilian Region of the International Biometrics Society (2008)

Citations :

  • Citations (All): 2,229
  • Citations (Since 2019): 1,643
  • h-index (All): 26
  • h-index (Since 2019): 21
  • i10-index (All): 68
  • i10-index (Since 2019): 58

Publication Top Notes

  1. Characterization of the consumer market and motivations for the consumption of craft beer
    NB Carvalho, LA Minim, M Nascimento, GHC Ferreira, VPR Minim
    British Food Journal, 120(2), 378-391 (2018)
  2. Avaliação do coeficiente de variação experimental para caracteres de frutos de pimenteiras
    AR Silva, PR Cecon, ER Rêgo, M Nascimento
    Revista Ceres, 58, 168-171 (2011)
  3. Artificial neural networks for adaptability and stability evaluation in alfalfa genotypes
    M Nascimento, LA Peternelli, CD Cruz, ACC Nascimento, RP Ferreira, …
    Crop Breeding and Applied Biotechnology, 13, 152-156 (2013)
  4. Alteração no método centroide de avaliação da adaptabilidade genotípica
    M Nascimento, CD Cruz, ACM Campana, RS Tomaz, CC Salgado, …
    Pesquisa Agropecuária Brasileira, 44, 263-269 (2009)
  5. Neural networks for predicting breeding values and genetic gains
    GN Silva, RS Tomaz, IC Sant’Anna, M Nascimento, LL Bhering, CD Cruz
    Scientia Agricola, 71, 494-498 (2014)
  6. Multi-trait multi-environment models in the genetic selection of segregating soybean progeny
    L Volpato, RS Alves, PE Teodoro, MD Vilela de Resende, M Nascimento, …
    PloS One, 14(4), e0215315 (2019)
  7. Technical efficiency of milk production in Minas Gerais: an application of quantile regression
    ACC Nascimento, JE Lima, MJ Braga, M Nascimento, AP Gomes
    Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia, 41, 783-789 (2012)
  8. Adaptability and stability based on nonparametric regression in coffee genotypes
    M Nascimento, A Ferreira, RG Ferrão, ACM Campana, LL Bhering, …
    Pesquisa Agropecuária Brasileira, 45, 41-48 (2010)
  9. Métodos estatísticos
    PR Cecon, AR Silva, M Nascimento, A Ferreira
    Viçosa: Editora UFV (2012)
  10. Quantitative sensory description using the Optimized Descriptive Profile: Comparison with conventional and alternative methods for evaluation of chocolate
    RC dos Santos Navarro, VPR Minim, JDS Carneiro, M Nascimento, …
    Food Quality and Preference, 30(2), 169-179 (2013)
  11. A discriminant function for validation of the cluster analysis and behavioral prediction of the coffee market
    NB Carvalho, VPR Minim, M Nascimento, MCTR Vidigal, MAM Ferreira, …
    Food Research International, 77, 400-407 (2015)
  12. Genomic prediction of leaf rust resistance to Arabica coffee using machine learning algorithms
    IC Sousa, M Nascimento, GN Silva, ACC Nascimento, CD Cruz, …
    Scientia Agricola, 78, e20200021 (2020)
  13. Impact of energy restriction during late gestation on the muscle and blood transcriptome of beef calves after preconditioning
    LP Sanglard, M Nascimento, P Moriel, J Sommer, M Ashwell, MH Poore, …
    BMC Genomics, 19, 1-18 (2018)
  14. Quantile regression for genome-wide association study of flowering time-related traits in common bean
    M Nascimento, ACC Nascimento, FF Silva, LD Barili, NM Vale, …
    PLoS One, 13(1), e0190303 (2018)
  15. Abordagem bayesiana para avaliação da adaptabilidade e estabilidade de genótipos de alfafa
    M Nascimento, FF Silva, T Sáfadi, ACC Nascimento, RP Ferreira, …
    Pesquisa Agropecuária Brasileira, 46, 26-32 (2011)
  16. Independent Component Analysis (ICA) based-clustering of temporal RNA-seq data
    M Nascimento, FF Silva, T Safadi, ACC Nascimento, TEM Ferreira, …
    PLoS One, 12(7), e0181195 (2017)
  17. Perspectiva bayesiana na seleção de genótipos de feijão-caupi em ensaios de valor de cultivo e uso
    PE Teodoro, M Nascimento, FE Torres, LMA Barroso, E Sagrilo
    Pesquisa Agropecuária Brasileira, 50(10), 878-885 (2015)
  18. Superiority of artificial neural networks for a genetic classification procedure
    IC Sant’Anna, RS Tomaz, GN Silva, M Nascimento, LL Bhering, CD Cruz
    Genetics and Molecular Research (2015)
  19. Recommendation of Coffea arabica genotypes by factor analysis
    IP Barbosa, WG da Costa, M Nascimento, CD Cruz, ACB de Oliveira
    Euphytica, 215, 1-10 (2019)
  20. Genotype-environment interaction in common bean cultivars with carioca grain, recommended for cultivation in Brazil in the last 40 years
    LD Barili, NM Vale, AL Prado, JES Carneiro, FF Silva, M Nascimento
    Crop Breeding and Applied Biotechnology, 15(04), 244-250 (2015)

 

Matheus Massariol Suela | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Matheus Massariol Suela |  Crop Science |  Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate at  Federal University of Viçosa (UFV)/University of Florida (UF), United States

Matheus Massariol Suela is a Ph.D. candidate in Genetics and Breeding based in Viçosa, Brazil. A Brazilian national born on March 22, 1997, Matheus is a dedicated researcher with a focus on quantitative genetics. His expertise includes applying statistical methods in Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and Genomic Selection (GWS), key approaches in understanding genetic variation and improving breeding programs.

Profile:

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Genetics and Breeding (July 2021 – Present), Federal University of Viçosa
    Project: Structural Equation Models for genome-wide studies in Glycine max and Coffea arabica.
  • Sandwich Ph.D. Period (May 2024 – Present), University of Florida
    Focus: Quantitative genetics for blueberry and coffee breeding, with Ph.D. Patricio Muñoz and Ph.D. Felipe Ferrão.
  • M.Sc. in Genetics and Breeding (March 2020 – June 2021), Federal University of Viçosa
  • B.Sc. in Agronomy (March 2015 – December 2019), Federal University of Viçosa
  • Agricultural Technician (March 2012 – December 2014), Federal Institute of Espírito Santo – Campus Itapina

Research and Professional Experience:

  • Extensive experience in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and genomic selection (GWS) using Structural Equation Models (SEM) and Bayesian networks.
  • Currently researching and implementing advanced genetic approaches in blueberry and coffee breeding.
  • Internship and project participation in agronomic and breeding-focused programs, including Agroconsult’s Harvest Rally and research on traits in rice, soy, and coffee.

Computational Skills:

  • Programming: Advanced R, Intermediate C, Basic Python
  • Data Analysis Tools: Power BI, Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Developed Software: ECERSEM-AdaptStab (Structural Equation Models for adaptability and stability analysis in crop breeding)

Awards and Recognitions:

  • 2nd Place – GDM Innovation Award 40 years, 2023
  • Silver Medal – Presidente Arthur da Silva Bernardes for academic performance in Agronomy, 2020
  • 2nd Place – Brazilian Agricultural Olympics, 2014

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. Integrating Environmental Covariates into Adaptability and Stability Analyses: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach for Cotton Breeding
    Agriculture, 2024-10-28 | DOI: 10.3390/agriculture14111914
  2. Updating knowledge in estimating the genetics parameters: Multi-trait and Multi-Environment Bayesian analysis in rice
    Scientia Agricola, 2023 | DOI: 10.1590/1678-992x-2022-0056
  3. Genome-wide association study for morphological, physiological, and productive traits in Coffea arabica using structural equation models
    Tree Genetics & Genomes, 2023-06 | DOI: 10.1007/s11295-023-01597-8
  4. Regional heritability mapping and genome‐wide association identify loci for rice traits
    Crop Science, 2022-03 | DOI: 10.1002/csc2.20706
  5. Structural equation models for genome-wide association study in Coffea arabica
    2021-07-27 | DOI: 10.47328/ufvbbt.2021.164
  6. Combined index of genomic prediction methods applied to productivity
    Ciência Rural, 2019 | DOI: 10.1590/0103-8478cr20181008
  7. New insights into genomic selection through population-based non-parametric prediction methods
    Scientia Agricola, 2019-07 | DOI: 10.1590/1678-992x-2017-0351

 

Anelia Iantcheva | Agricultural Science | Excellence in Research

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Prof Anelia  Iantcheva |   Agricultural Science  |  Excellence in Research

Prof. Principal Investigator at  AgroBioInstitute, Agricultural Academy,  Bulgaria

Prof. Anelia Iantcheva is a distinguished researcher in plant genetics and biotechnology, currently serving as a Professor and Principal Investigator at the Agrobioinstitute of the Agricultural Academy in Bulgaria. She obtained her Master’s degree from Sofia University in 1987, followed by a Ph.D. in 1997 and a DSc in 2019 from the Agricultural Academy.

 

Publication Profile

Academic Background:

Prof. Iantcheva earned her Master’s degree from Sofia University in 1987, followed by a Ph.D. from the Agricultural Academy, Bulgaria in 1997, and a DSc degree in 2019. She became a professor and principal investigator at Agrobioinstitute in 2022.

Research Focus:

Her expertise lies in plant genetics, genomics, transcriptomics, molecular biology, and biotechnology of model and grain and forage legumes.

Research Contributions:

Prof. Iantcheva has coordinated several EU-funded projects, including Horizon 2020 “Legumes Translated” and the ongoing Horizon Europe “Legume Generation.” She has published 64 articles in indexed journals and contributed chapters to five books on somatic embryogenesis and genetic transformation.

Innovations:

Her research has led to the development of efficient plant regeneration systems and insertional mutant collections in Medicago truncatula, laying the groundwork for functional genomics in legumes. She has also innovated a low-temperature pre-treatment method for soybean seeds to enhance agricultural practices.

Publication Top Notes

  1. A novel Microbacterium strain SRS2 promotes the growth of Arabidopsis and MicroTom (S. lycopersicum) under normal and salt stress conditions
    • Journal: Planta
    • Publication Date: October 2024
    • DOI: 10.1007/s00425-024-04510-2
    • Contributors: Ho Manh Tuong, Sonia García Méndez, Michiel Vandecasteele, Anne Willems, Anelia Iantcheva, Pham Bich Ngoc, Do Tien Phat, Chu Hoang Ha, Sofie Goormachtig.
  2. Transcriptional and Metabolic Profiling of Arabidopsis thaliana Transgenic Plants Expressing Histone Acetyltransferase HAC1 upon the Application of Abiotic Stress—Salt and Low Temperature
    • Journal: Metabolites
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.3390/metabo13090994
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85172238091
    • Contributors: T. Ivanova, I. Dincheva, I. Badjakov, A. Iantcheva.
  3. Transition to legume-supported farming in Europe through redesigning cropping systems
    • Journal: Agronomy for Sustainable Development
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1007/s13593-022-00861-w
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85146474358
    • Contributors: I. Notz, C.F.E. Topp, J. Schuler, S. Alves, L.A. Gallardo, J. Dauber, T. Haase, P.R. Hargreaves, M. Hennessy, A. Iantcheva, et al.
  4. Auxin and stringolactone interaction in extreme phosphate conditions
    • Book Chapter: In Agricultural Biocatalysis: Biological and Chemical Applications
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85142565230
    • ISBN: 9781000635287, 9781003313144
    • Contributors: M. Revalska, A. Iantcheva.
  5. Functional characterization of Medicago truncatula GRAS7, a member of the GRAS family transcription factors, in response to abiotic stress
    • Journal: Biotechnology and Biotechnological Equipment
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2022.2074893
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85130201236
    • Contributors: M. Revalska, M. Radkova, A. Iantcheva.
  6. Legumes in natural post-fire successions of forest meadows and pastures in Northern Bulgaria
    • Journal: Thaiszia Journal of Botany
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • DOI: 10.33542/TJB2022-1-05
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85133384347
    • Contributors: G. Naydenova, M. Radkova, A. Iantcheva.
  7. Long-lasting low temperature pretreatment of soybean seeds enhances plant field performance and content of free metabolites
    • Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85143811831
    • Contributors: G. Naidenova, I. Dincheva, I. Badjakov, M. Radkova, M. Revalska, A. Iantcheva.
  8. Moldovan soybean varieties testing in the condition of North Bulgaria
    • Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85127731032
    • Contributors: G. Naydenova, M. Radkova, A. Iantcheva.

 

Bramwel Wanjala | Crop health | Best Paper Award

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Mr Bramwel Wanjala | Crop health | Best Paper Award

Senior Research Scientist at  Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization,  Kenya

Dr. Bramwel Waswa Wanjala is an experienced research scientist at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), where he has worked since 2003. His research primarily focuses on plant disease diagnostics and molecular biology, particularly the epidemiology and management of critical diseases like Maize Lethal Necrosis (MLN), Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSV), and sweetpotato viruses. Dr. Wanjala has contributed to the development of laboratory protocols, training of personnel, and the establishment of standardized practices that ensure high-quality lab operations. His work includes using genetic markers such as AFLP, SSRs, SRAP, and ISSR to analyze crop diversity, helping enhance agricultural resilience in Kenya. Dr. Wanjala’s expertise has made him a key figure in plant pathology research, where he supports capacity-building efforts and advances diagnostic methodologies for sustainable agriculture.

 

Publication Profile

Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. in Biotechnology (Expected Dec 2022) – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
  • M.Sc. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2013) – Egerton University

Expertise:

Dr. Wanjala is a skilled research scientist specializing in plant disease diagnostics, molecular biology, and crop germplasm management. His work has focused on critical plant diseases in Kenya, including Maize Lethal Necrosis (MLN) and various sweetpotato viruses, employing advanced techniques like ELISA, PCR, Q-PCR, and LAMP. At the International Potato Center (CIP), he led sweetpotato virus diagnostics and developed innovative technologies for rapid vine multiplication, like sandponics, significantly aiding the sweetpotato seed system in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Key Contributions and Achievements:

  • Capacity Building: Trained numerous researchers and technical staff in virus diagnostics across East and Central Africa, including for KEPHIS.
  • Diagnostic Innovations: Validated a ClonDiag Microarray for sweetpotato virus detection, reducing testing time from 6 months to 2 days.
  • MLN Lab Establishment: Set up a diagnostic lab for MLN and trained stakeholders in disease identification and management.
  • Prebasic Seed Production: Helped establish a sustainable sweetpotato seed production system with KEPHIS, distributing over 150,000 vines to farmers.

Professional Affiliations:

  • International Society for Tropical Root Crops (African Branch)
  • African Biotechnology Stakeholders Forum (ABSF)
  • Trustee and Director of Economic Empowerment, JEDIMU Trust

Publication Top Notes

  • “Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification assays for on-site detection of the main sweetpotato infecting viruses”
  • “Comparative analysis for producing sweetpotato pre-basic seed using sandponics and conventional systems”
  • “Improving rapid multiplication of sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L. (Lam) pre-basic seed using sandponics technology in East Africa”
  • “Storage root yield of sweetpotato as influenced by sweetpotato leaf curl virus and its interaction with sweetpotato feathery mottle virus and Sweetpotato chlorotic stunt virus in Kenya”
  • “Yield potential of sandponically produced sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) pre-basic seed for selected genotypes”