Dr. Yu Zhou | Medical Image Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Henan University of Science and Technology | China

Dr. Yu Zhou is an emerging researcher in the intersecting domains of medical imaging, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence, recognized for advancing computational approaches that improve the understanding and diagnosis of neurological disorders. With 10 published research documents, 98 citations, an h-index of 7, and an i10-index of 6, his scholarly contributions reflect both productivity and growing international influence. His research has led to notable advancements in diffusion MRI analysis, white-matter connectivity modeling, and machine-learning-driven diagnostic frameworks, particularly within mild cognitive impairment (MCI), juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME), and neurobehavioral disorders.Yu Zhou’s most cited works demonstrate strong expertise in fiber-specific white matter analysis, CNN-based transfer learning, and automated classification systems, with contributions published in respected venues such as Cerebral Cortex, Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, Frontiers in Neuroscience, and Journal of Neural Engineering. His research extends beyond human neuroscience to impactful cross-disciplinary applications, including AI-driven acoustic-based detection systems for livestock estrus identification, showcasing versatility and methodological depth.He has served as principal investigator for two provincial projects, participated in four additional provincial projects and one national project, and contributed to one consultancy/industry initiative, indicating growing leadership in funded research. His innovative capabilities are further evidenced by one granted patent and four patents under review, underscoring his commitment to translational and societally relevant technological development. With collaborations established across computational neuroscience and AI imaging research groups, he continues to contribute to global scientific networks.Yu Zhou’s ongoing work focuses on building interpretable deep-learning models, advancing multimodal data fusion for clinical diagnostics, and developing AI-assisted neuroimaging biomarkers for early disease identification. These contributions hold significant promise for clinical decision support, early-stage neurological assessment, and precision medicine applications. With increasing publication momentum and expanding collaborative research engagements, he is positioned to generate deeper scientific impact and contribute to the evolution of intelligent medical imaging and computational neuroscience.

Profiles: Googlescholar | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1.Zhou, Y., Si, X., Chen, Y., Chao, Y., Lin, C. P., Li, S., Zhang, X., Ming, D., & Li, Q. (2022). Hippocampus- and thalamus-related fiber-specific white matter reductions in mild cognitive impairment. Cerebral Cortex, 32(15), 3159–3174. Cited By : 23

2.Si, X., Zhang, X., Zhou, Y., Sun, Y., Jin, W., Yin, S., Zhao, X., Li, Q., & Ming, D. (2020). Automated detection of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy using CNN-based transfer learning in diffusion MRI. In 2020 42nd Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC). IEEE. Cited By : 18

3.Zhou, Y., Si, X., Chao, Y. P., Chen, Y., Lin, C. P., Li, S., Zhang, X., Sun, Y., & Ming, D. (2022). Automated classification of mild cognitive impairment by machine learning with hippocampus-related white matter network. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 14, 866230.Cited By : 13

4.Wang, J., Si, Y., Wang, J., Li, X., Zhao, K., Liu, B., & Zhou, Y. (2023). Discrimination strategy using machine learning technique for oestrus detection in dairy cows by a dual-channel-based acoustic tag. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture, 210, 107949.Cited By : 13

5.Wang, J., Chen, H., Wang, J., Zhao, K., Li, X., Liu, B., & Zhou, Y. (2023). Identification of oestrus cows based on vocalisation characteristics and machine learning technique using a dual-channel-equipped acoustic tag. animal, 17(6), 100811.Cited By : 12

Dr. Yu Zhou’s work advances global healthcare innovation by integrating medical imaging, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence to enable earlier, more accurate detection of neurological disorders. His research drives the development of interpretable, data-driven diagnostic tools that strengthen clinical decision-making and support precision medicine. Through cross-disciplinary innovation, he envisions AI-empowered neuroimaging solutions that improve patient outcomes and transform future healthcare systems.

Dr. Ane’ Orchard | Healthcare Applications | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa

Dr. Ané Orchard is a dedicated pharmacist, academic, and senior lecturer at the University of the Witwatersrand with extensive experience in clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical microbiology, and health sciences education. Her work bridges the gap between academic research and real-world public health outcomes, with a strong focus on probiotics, antimicrobial resistance, microbiome-linked diseases, and pharmacy education. She has led and contributed to numerous national and international research projects, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing healthcare and education. Her ability to mentor students, lead collaborative research efforts, and publish in reputed journals highlights her as a well-rounded scholar. Recognized for her academic citizenship and public contributions, Dr. Orchard is committed to impactful and socially relevant research. Her ongoing projects and future plans reflect her dedication to driving change through scientific inquiry, collaboration, and innovation, making her a respected figure in the academic and healthcare research community.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar | Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Ané Orchard pursued her higher education in pharmacy at the University of the Witwatersrand, where she completed both her undergraduate and doctoral studies. She has received rigorous training in pharmaceutical sciences, clinical pharmacy, microbiology, and health education, equipping her with a comprehensive foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of pharmacy. Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to lifelong learning, with a particular focus on integrating science and healthcare for community benefit. In addition to formal degrees, she has undertaken continuous professional development to stay current with advances in pharmaceutical practice and healthcare education. Her doctoral research laid the groundwork for her current interdisciplinary studies that span clinical practice, microbiology, and public health. Through her education, she has developed the critical thinking and research skills necessary to address pressing challenges in healthcare and pharmacy education, laying a solid platform for her contributions to academia and research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Ané Orchard has built a dynamic professional career centered around academic teaching, research, and public health impact. As a senior lecturer at the University of the Witwatersrand, she has been instrumental in developing and delivering curriculum in clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical microbiology, and health sciences education. Her responsibilities extend beyond classroom teaching to include student mentorship, supervision of postgraduate research, and academic leadership in collaborative projects. She has led multiple research initiatives aimed at improving patient outcomes and advancing pharmacy practice. Her involvement in international collaborations, such as the Una Europa – Africa Partnership, showcases her ability to work across borders and disciplines. In addition to her academic role, she contributes to institutional development by participating in quality assurance, curriculum review, and community outreach. Her professional journey reflects a strong alignment between research excellence, educational impact, and a broader vision of healthcare improvement through evidence-based practices.

Research Interest

Dr. Ané Orchard’s research interests span a broad and interdisciplinary range that includes clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical microbiology, public health, and health sciences education. She is particularly focused on the role of probiotics, antimicrobial resistance, and microbiome-related diseases, contributing to a deeper understanding of how these elements affect patient health and therapeutic strategies. Her research also explores innovations in pharmacy education, aiming to enhance the training of future healthcare professionals through evidence-based teaching methods. Additionally, she is engaged in public health-focused studies that address community health challenges in resource-constrained environments. Her commitment to applied, socially relevant research has driven her involvement in international collaborations aimed at addressing global health concerns. Dr. Orchard continues to investigate how natural products and medicinal chemistry can be integrated into therapeutic solutions. Her interdisciplinary approach ensures that her research contributes to both scientific advancement and practical improvements in healthcare delivery and education.

Award and Honor

Dr. Ané Orchard has received several honors and awards in recognition of her academic excellence, research contributions, and public service. She was selected as one of the Mail and Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans, a prestigious recognition celebrating individuals making a significant impact in their respective fields. She has also been honored with her university’s Academic Citizenship Award, acknowledging her dedication to institutional service, student mentorship, and research excellence. Her work has received accolades at both national and international conferences, where she has earned awards for best presentations and scientific posters. These achievements reflect her ability to communicate research findings effectively and contribute meaningfully to academic discourse. Her consistent recognition is a testament to her leadership in the field of pharmacy and health sciences. Through these awards, Dr. Orchard’s influence in education, research, and public engagement is validated, and she continues to inspire peers and students alike with her dedication and professionalism.

Research Skill

Dr. Ané Orchard possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, making her well-equipped for interdisciplinary scientific inquiry. She is proficient in designing and managing clinical and laboratory-based research studies, particularly in the areas of pharmaceutical microbiology, probiotics, and public health. Her skills include advanced data analysis, statistical evaluation, systematic reviews, and scientific writing for publication in peer-reviewed journals. She is adept at research ethics compliance, proposal writing, and grant applications, reflecting her capability to lead and sustain funded research projects. Her involvement in collaborative international studies has enhanced her ability to coordinate multi-site research and contribute to cross-disciplinary innovation. Dr. Orchard is also skilled in mentoring students and junior researchers, supporting their development in academic writing, critical thinking, and experimental design. Her research competencies are continually updated through professional development, ensuring relevance and rigor in her approach to addressing health-related scientific challenges.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Commercial essential oils as potential antimicrobials to treat skin diseases
Authors: A Orchard, S van Vuuren
Year: 2017
Citations: 323

Title: The in vitro Antimicrobial Activity and Chemometric Modelling of 59 Commercial Essential Oils against Pathogens of Dermatological Relevance
Authors: A Orchard, M Sandasi, G Kamatou, A Viljoen, S van Vuuren
Year: 2017
Citations: 89

Title: The influence of carrier oils on the antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity of essential oils
Authors: A Orchard, G Kamatou, AM Viljoen, N Patel, P Mawela, SF Vuuren
Year: 2019
Citations: 79

Title: The in vitro antimicrobial evaluation of commercial essential oils and their combinations against acne
Authors: A Orchard, SF Van Vuuren, AM Viljoen, G Kamatou
Year: 2018
Citations: 55

Title: A scoping review of African natural products against gastric ulcers and Helicobacter pylori
Authors: S Dinat, A Orchard, S Van Vuuren
Year: 2023
Citations: 38

Title: Wound pathogens: Investigating antimicrobial activity of commercial essential oil combinations against reference strains
Authors: A Orchard, A Viljoen, S van Vuuren
Year: 2018
Citations: 29

Title: Carrier oils in dermatology
Authors: A Orchard, SF van Vuuren
Year: 2019
Citations: 27

Title: Commercial essential oil combinations against topical fungal pathogens
Authors: A Orchard, SF van Vuuren, AM Viljoen
Year: 2019
Citations: 23

Title: Antimicrobial essential oil combinations to combat foot odour
Authors: A Orchard, A Viljoen, S van Vuuren
Year: 2018
Citations: 18

Title: High prevalence but lack of awareness of hypertension in South Africa, particularly among men and young adults
Authors: AJ Woodiwiss, A Orchard, CMC Mels, AS Uys, BN Nkeh-Chungag, …
Year: 2025
Citations: 13

Conclusion

Dr. Ané Orchard is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her impactful contributions to clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical microbiology, and health sciences education. Her research has significantly advanced understanding in areas such as probiotics, antimicrobial resistance, and public health, while also contributing to the academic development of future healthcare professionals. Through her leadership in research projects and recognition for academic citizenship, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to both scientific excellence and societal impact. With her ongoing projects and potential for expanded interdisciplinary and international collaboration, she is well positioned for continued leadership and innovation in her field.

Yu Zhou | Medical Image Analysis | Best Researcher Award