Meng Ma | Plant Breeding | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Meng Ma | Plant Breeding | Young Scientist Award

Xuzhou Institute of Agricultural Sciences in Jiangsu Xuhuai District | China

Author Profile

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🌟  Suitable for this Young Scientist Award

Meng Ma, a Doctoral candidate at Jiangsu Normal University, specializes in sweetpotato genetic breeding. With over a decade of research in sweetpotato biology and genetics, Meng has contributed significantly to the genetic improvement of sweetpotatoes. His research focuses on plant architecture and the molecular mechanisms of storage root expansion. Through projects like the Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province and collaborations with the Crop Characteristic Resources Creation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, he aims to develop new sweetpotato varieties with improved agronomic traits. Meng’s research offers valuable insights into crop improvement, making him an excellent candidate for the Young Scientist Award.

🎓 Education 

Meng Ma is currently pursuing his PhD in Biology at Jiangsu Normal University. With more than ten years of experience in sweetpotato genetic breeding, he has acquired in-depth knowledge in plant biology and genetics. His education has provided him with a strong foundation to contribute to the agricultural sciences. Meng has excelled in both academic and research settings, continuously exploring innovative ways to enhance crop quality and yield through molecular genetics. He has successfully applied his learning to various research projects, including genome-wide association studies and transcriptome profiling, to uncover key genetic traits in sweetpotatoes.

 💼  Professional Experience

Meng Ma has been working on sweetpotato genetic breeding for over a decade, focusing on key aspects of crop improvement. His ongoing research projects include the Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province and the Crop Characteristic Resources Creation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province. He has contributed to genome-wide studies, including research on plant architecture traits, and has worked on identifying quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with agronomic traits in sweetpotatoes. Meng has collaborated with leading research institutions to identify candidate genes and contribute to functional genomics in crop breeding.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Meng Ma’s work has earned him recognition in the scientific community, including citations for his innovative research on sweetpotato genetics. He has been actively involved in research that explores plant architecture and its genetic underpinnings. He is also noted for his work on the development of SNP markers for sweetpotato traits, contributing to genetic advancements in crop improvement. Although he has not yet received major awards, his research publications and ongoing projects reflect his commitment to advancing agricultural science. His dedication and contributions to the field make him a promising candidate for the Young Scientist Award.

🌍Research skills On Plant Breeding

Meng Ma’s research expertise lies in sweetpotato genetic breeding, focusing on plant architecture, root expansion, and agronomic trait improvement. He is skilled in using genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and comparative transcriptome profiling to uncover key genetic pathways. His research integrates molecular genetics, plant biology, and crop improvement to enhance the performance of sweetpotatoes. Meng’s ability to work on interdisciplinary projects and collaborate with key research laboratories has enabled him to make significant contributions to the understanding of sweetpotato genetics. His work is laying the groundwork for developing new sweetpotato varieties with desirable traits.

📖Publications

Genome-wide association study reveals novel QTLs of traits related to plant architecture in sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.)
Comparative Transcriptome Profiling Reveals the Genes Involved in Storage Root Expansion in Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.)
Construction linkage maps and identification of quantitative trait loci associated with important agronomic traits in purple-fleshed sweetpotato
Genetic Analysis and QTL Mapping of Composite Resistance to Sweet Potato Stem Nematode Disease

José Cruz Jiménez-Galindo | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. José Cruz Jiménez-Galindo | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias | Mexico

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🌟  Suitable for this Best Researcher Award

José Cruz Jiménez-Galindo is a distinguished Mexican plant geneticist whose groundbreaking work in bean genetics has significantly advanced agricultural resilience and food security. His innovative research has led to the development of drought-tolerant and pest-resistant bean varieties, directly benefiting farmers in arid regions.​ Yes — this candidate is a strong and well-qualified contender for a Best Researcher Award. His contributions span scientific innovation, technology transfer, education, and practical impact on national agriculture and food systems. The combination of academic rigor, real-world application, and societal benefit makes his profile exemplary.

🎓 Education 

José Cruz Jiménez-Galindo earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural and Forestry Research from the University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain, achieving the highest distinction, “Cum Laude.” He holds a Master’s in Plant Protection and a Bachelor’s in Agricultural Systems for Arid Zones from Universidad Autónoma Chapingo, Mexico. His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing plant genetics, particularly in enhancing crop resilience.

 💼  Professional Experience

Since 2008, José Cruz Jiménez-Galindo has been a leading researcher at the Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias (INIFAP) in Mexico. His work focuses on developing bean varieties with short growth cycles, drought tolerance, and resistance to pests, significantly improving yields and cooking times. His efforts have directly benefited farmers in Chihuahua and beyond.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

  • “Cum Laude” distinction for his doctoral thesis in Spain.

  • Member of the National System of Researchers (SNI) Level 1 since 2023.

  • Honored in the Dean’s List at Universidad Autónoma Chapingo in 2001.

  • Research tenure at North Dakota State University, USA, focusing on dry bean breeding.

🌍Research skills On Plant Genetics 

José Cruz Jiménez-Galindo specializes in plant genetics, with expertise in developing high-yield, pest-resistant bean varieties. His research encompasses genetic characterization, breeding for stress tolerance, and optimizing agronomic practices to enhance crop performance. His work has led to the identification of key metabolites responsible for pest resistance, contributing to patent applications and advancing agricultural biotechnology.

📖Publications

‘Tepehuán‐RS’ a new drought tolerant, high grain yield in low plant densities and slow darkening pinto bean cultivar
  • Journal: Journal of Plant Registrations
    Year: 2025
    Authors: José Cruz Jiménez‐Galindo, Daniel Padilla‐Chacón, José L. Anaya‐López, Jorge A. Acosta‐Gallegos, Nadiezhda Ramírez‐Cabral, Ricardo A. Sánchez‐Gutiérrez, Adalberto Ortega‐Ortega, Juan José Figueroa‐Gonzalez
Inheritance of Drought Tolerance in a F3 Biparental Population of Pinto Saltillo (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) × Tepary Cafe (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray)
  • Journal: Agronomy
    Year: 2025
    Authors: Marcela Cília-García, José Cruz Jiménez-Galindo, Cecilia Beatriz Peña-Valdivia, Ebandro Uscanga-Mortera, Antonio García-Esteva, Daniel Padilla-Chacón
Metabolomics of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) antixenosis to the Mexican weevil (Zabrotes subfasciatus Boh.)
  • Journal: Journal of Plant Diseases and Protection
    Year: 2024
    Authors: Alexis Lamz-Piedra, José Cruz Jiménez-Galindo, Guadalupe Isela Olivas-Orozco, Francisco Javier Molina-Corral, Marilyn Florido-Bacallao, Moraima Suris-Campos, Belkis Peteira Delgado-Oramas, Jorge A. Pino
Inheritance of the Resistance to Acanthoscelides obtectus (Say.) in a Heterogeneous Inbred Families Population of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
  • Journal: Agronomy
    Year: 2023
    Authors: Adriana Yuzaleth Ayala-Ruiz, Gloria Castellanos-Pérez, José Cruz Jiménez-Galindo, Nadiezhda Ramírez-Cabral, Orlando Ramírez-Valle, Juan José Figueroa-González, Rosa A. Malvar
Osmotic stress tolerance in forage oat varieties (Avena Sativa L.) based on osmotic potential trials
  • Journal: Agronomy Research
    Year: 2023
    Authors: A. Ortega-Ortega, J.C. Jiménez-Galindo, R.A. Parra-Quezada, J.L. Jacobo-Cuellar, Teresita D.J. Ruiz-Anchondo, J.J. Salmerón-Zamora, P.B. Zamudio-Flores, R.A. Malvar

Andreas Prokscha | Crop Science | Best Scholar Award

Andreas Prokscha | Crop Science | Best Scholar Award

Institute of Digital Signal Processing (DSV), University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE), Germany

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🌟  Suitable for this Best Scholar Award

Andreas Prokscha is a highly accomplished researcher in electrical engineering, with expertise in high-frequency technology, terahertz applications, and ray-tracing methods. His contributions to scientific advancements are evident through his publications on THz measurements, antennas, tissue sensing, and plant/insect monitoring using miniaturized THz systems. His research addresses cutting-edge topics with real-world applications, particularly in wireless sensing, electromagnetic wave propagation, and high-frequency signal processing, making his work highly impactful. Andreas Prokscha’s extensive research, technical expertise, and recognized contributions make him highly suitable for the Research for Best Scholar Award. His work in THz technology, wireless sensing, and high-frequency applications has significant scientific and industrial relevance. Coupled with his academic achievements, leadership roles, and prestigious awards, he embodies the qualities of an outstanding scholar deserving of recognition.

 Education

Andreas Prokscha pursued his education in electrical engineering and information technology at the University of Duisburg-Essen. He earned his Bachelor of Science (BS) in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology between October 2011 and March 2015. During this period, he developed a strong foundation in high-frequency systems and sensor technology. His academic journey continued with a Master of Science (MS) in the same field from April 2015 to December 2019. His graduate studies focused on terahertz applications, ray-tracing methods, and multidisciplinary research, paving the way for his expertise in real-time sensing and THz-based monitoring systems. Throughout his academic career, Andreas demonstrated exceptional technical acumen and research capabilities, contributing to various scientific projects. His education played a crucial role in shaping his research approach, enabling him to develop novel solutions in THz measurements, antennas, and interdisciplinary applications in plant and insect monitoring.

  Professional Experience

Andreas Prokscha has amassed extensive experience in academia and industry, blending research excellence with technical innovation. He has been a scientific researcher (Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter) at the University of Duisburg-Essen since June 2021, where he specializes in THz applications and high-frequency technologies. In January 2025, he was appointed Managing Director of Transregio, further solidifying his leadership in research projects. Prior to this, he worked as an HF engineer at ID4us GmbH from February 2020 to December 2022, focusing on high-frequency system design. His expertise includes multidisciplinary approaches to THz sensing, antenna development, and real-time environmental monitoring. Over the years, he has led cutting-edge research projects, collaborated with international teams, and contributed significantly to advancing the field of high-frequency engineering. His experience bridges academia and industry, emphasizing practical applications of THz technology in emerging fields such as plant and insect monitoring.

 Awards and Recognition 

Andreas Prokscha’s contributions to terahertz research and high-frequency engineering have earned him numerous accolades. He was awarded the prestigious Deutschlandstipendium, recognizing his outstanding academic performance and research potential. His innovative research also led to the Best Student Popular Paper Award at ICMMTS 2025, highlighting his expertise in THz sensing and multidisciplinary applications. His work has been acknowledged in both academic and industry settings, demonstrating the impact of his pioneering research. With a strong commitment to advancing THz technology, Andreas has received multiple grants and honors for his contributions to sensor innovation and real-time environmental monitoring. His ability to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications continues to garner recognition in the scientific community. His achievements reflect his dedication to pushing the boundaries of THz research, making significant contributions to high-frequency technology and its applications in agriculture, environmental science, and industrial automation.

Research skills On Crop Science

Andreas Prokscha possesses exceptional research skills in terahertz (THz) applications, ray-tracing methods, high-frequency engineering, and multidisciplinary system integration. His expertise extends to THz-based sensing, real-time plant and insect monitoring, and advanced antenna design. Proficient in computational modeling and simulation, he applies innovative methodologies to enhance THz measurement accuracy and efficiency. His research integrates THz technology into practical applications, including environmental monitoring, biomedical sensing, and industrial automation. Andreas excels in experimental evaluation, signal processing, and hardware implementation, contributing to groundbreaking developments in free-space tissue sensing and RFID-based wind-dispersal systems. With a strong background in electrical engineering and information technology, he collaborates on interdisciplinary projects to drive scientific advancements. His proficiency in high-frequency simulations and data analysis enables him to develop novel solutions for complex research challenges, reinforcing his position as a leader in THz-based sensing technology.

Publications

Perspectives on terahertz honey bee sensing
  • Journal: Scientific Reports
  • Year: 2025
  • Contributors: Andreas Prokscha; Fawad Sheikh; Mandana Jalali; Pieterjan De Boose; Eline De Borre; Vera Jeladze; Felipe Oliveira Ribas; David Toribio Carvajal; Jan Taro Svejda; Tobias Kubiczek et al.
Demonstration of Millimeter Wave Radar Sensing in Fire and Smoky Environments
  • Journal: 2025 International Conference on Mobile and Miniaturized Terahertz Systems (ICMMTS)
  • Year: 2025
  • Contributors: Aman Batra; Andreas Prokscha; Thorsten Schultze; Ridha Farhoud; Michael Wiemeler; Diana Göhringer; Jan C. Balzer; Thomas Kaiser
Dynamic THz Measurements in the PreSyse Lab
  • Year: 2025
  • DOI: 10.1109/icmmts62835.2025.10925969
  • Contributors: Fawad Sheikh; Andreas Prokscha; Yamen Zantah; Thomas Kaiser
Plant Water Content Monitoring Using Miniaturized THz RTD Oscillators and Detectors
  • Year: 2025
  • DOI: 10.1109/icmmts62835.2025.10926040
  • Contributors: Pooya Alibeigloo; Christian Preuss; Enes Mutlu; Fawad Sheikh; Yamen Zantah; Andreas Prokscha; Jonas Watermann; Jonathan Abts; Robin Kress; Simone Clochiatti et al.
Terahertz Remote Respiration Rate Monitoring
  • Year: 2025
  • DOI: 10.1109/icmmts62835.2025.10926042
  • Contributors: Svenja Nicola Kobel; Yamen Zantah; Andreas Prokscha; Christian Wiede; Gerd vom Bögel; Thomas Kaiser; Karsten Seidl

 

Monika Staniszewska | Plant Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Monika Staniszewska | Plant Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Warsaw University of Technology, Poland

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🌟  Suitable for this Best Researcher Award

Dr. Monika Staniszewska is a distinguished researcher in the field of medical biology, microbiology, and molecular biology, with a strong emphasis on cancer immunotherapy and oncolytic virotherapy. Her extensive academic and professional background, including a PhD and habilitation in medical sciences, positions her as a leading expert in her discipline. Currently serving as an Associate Professor and Department Leader at the Center for Advanced Materials and Technologies (CEZAMAT) at the Warsaw University of Technology, Dr. Staniszewska has demonstrated significant leadership and innovation in her research. In recognition of her scientific excellence, Dr. Staniszewska has received multiple prestigious awards, including the Ludwik Rajchman Prize (I° and II°) for her contributions to innovative cancer treatments. Her participation in international collaborations, fellowships, and academic engagements, such as at Uppsala University, further underscores her global impact. Additionally, her role in liquid biopsy research and biomarker refinement for monitoring treatment responses highlights her commitment to translational medicine and patient-centered research.

 Education

Dr. Staniszewska earned her Master of Science in Biology from the University of Szczecin in 1999. She obtained a Ph.D. in Medical Science, specializing in medical biology, from the Scientific Council of the National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene (NIPH-NIH) in 2010. In 2018, she achieved her habilitation in medical sciences within the same discipline. Additionally, Dr. Staniszewska holds a Level I Specialization in Microbiology (2003) and is a certified laboratory diagnostician (2003).

  Professional Experience

Dr. Staniszewska has held various academic positions, including Assistant Professor at NIPH-NIH (2013-2019), Research and Teaching Assistant Professor at WUT’s Faculty of Chemistry (2019-2020), and Research Assistant Professor at CEZAMAT (2020-2021). Since 2021, she has been an Associate Professor and leader of the Department of Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Bioinformatics at CEZAMAT, WUT. Her roles have encompassed leading research projects, supervising theses, and lecturing on genetics and molecular biology.

 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Staniszewska’s accolades include the Ludwik Rajchman Prize II° from NIPH-NIH (2013) and the Team Prize III° from the Rector of the Medical University of Warsaw (2011). She has also received fellowships at Uppsala University (2022) and Duke University (2022), where she presented research on cancer immunology and participated in workshops on cancer therapy. Additionally, she has been an invited speaker at various conferences and summer schools, sharing her expertise in immunotherapy and cancer cell biology.

Research skills On Plant Molecular Biology

Dr. Staniszewska’s research encompasses microbiology, molecular biology, immunology, and immunotherapy. Her work includes developing therapeutic solutions for infectious diseases, studying mast cells’ roles in pathogenesis, searching for new antiviral drugs, and creating platforms using non-replicating adenoviruses as vectors for vaccines. She also focuses on oncolytic adenoviruses for cancer treatment and studies the deactivation of betacoronaviruses using UV-C.

Publications

Sustainable, cytocompatible and flexible electronics on potato starch-based films
  • Authors: S. Lepak-Kuc, A. Kądziela, M. Staniszewska, K. Piłczyńska, Z. Żołek-Tryznowska, et al.

  • Journal: Scientific Reports

  • Year: 2024

Mechanically suitable and osteoinductive 3D-printed composite scaffolds with hydroxyapatite nanoparticles having diverse morphologies for bone tissue engineering
  • Authors: M. Wojasiński, R. Podgórski, P. Kowalczyk, T. Ciach, P. Sobieszuk, et al.

  • Journal: Journal of Biomedical Materials Research – Part B Applied Biomaterials

  • Year: 2024

Candida albicans ergosterol disorders as a consequence of the new sulfone derivative action mode
  • Authors: M. Staniszewska, M. Kazek, M. Rogalska, L. Kuryk, Z. Ochal, et al.

  • Journal: Medicinal Chemistry Research

  • Year: 2024

A novel approach to enhance mechanical properties of Ti substrates for biomedical applications
  • Authors: D. Kuczyńska-Zemła, M. Rogalska, A. Sotniczuk, M. Staniszewska, H. Garbacz, et al.

  • Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds

  • Year: 2024

Induction of an immune response by a nonreplicating adenoviruses-based formulation versus a commercial pseudo-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine
  • Authors: J. Baran, L. Kuryk, M. Garofalo, M. Kazek, M. Staniszewska, et al.

  • Journal: Biotechnologia

  • Year: 2024

 

Timur Turdiyev | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Timur Turdiyev | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology | Kazakhstan

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TIMUR TURDIYEV: HEAD RESEARCHER AT INSTITUTE OF PLANT BIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 🌱

INTRODUCTION

Timur Turdiyev, a prominent researcher in plant biotechnology and conservation, is the Head Researcher at the Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology (IPBB) in Almaty, Kazakhstan. With over two decades of experience in plant science, his research focuses on advancing biotechnological methods for preserving and improving plant genetic resources, particularly in Kazakhstan. His innovative contributions to biotechnology, plant breeding, and biodiversity have had a significant impact on sustainable agriculture in the region.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Timur’s academic journey began at the Kazakh State Agrarian University, where he studied from 1996 to 2001. His passion for biotechnology led him to pursue a thesis in the field, which he successfully defended in 2010. He was awarded the academic title of Associate Professor in Biology in 2021. Throughout his academic career, he has continually expanded his expertise in plant biology, breeding, and biotechnology.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Since 2002, Timur has been part of the IPBB, initially starting as an intern researcher and eventually rising to the position of Head Researcher in 2025. As a key figure in plant biotechnology research, he has led numerous research projects aimed at advancing Kazakhstan’s agricultural capabilities, including the preservation and propagation of various plant species using biotechnological methods.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Plant Biotechnology

Timur’s contributions to biotechnology and plant conservation have been transformative. His research focuses on developing techniques for long-term preservation, cryopreservation, and micropropagation of plants like rice, grapevine, raspberries, and poplars. His projects, such as the creation of cryobanks and the development of biotechnological regulations for germplasm preservation, are critical to ensuring sustainable plant breeding and conservation in Kazakhstan.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Timur’s work has not only advanced plant biotechnology in Kazakhstan but also contributed significantly to global scientific knowledge. His involvement in international projects has established him as a respected figure in the scientific community. Through his research, he has improved the efficiency of plant breeding, offering potential solutions for combating agricultural challenges, particularly in arid regions.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Timur has published extensively in reputable scientific journals. With an h-index of 6 on Scopus, his research is widely recognized, particularly in the fields of plant genetics and biotechnology. His work, including studies on apple and plum genetic diversity and the preservation of apple germplasm, has been published in journals like In vitro cellular & developmental biology-plant and Tree Genetics & Genomes.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • The “AlgysKhat”certificate in 2023 for his contribution to higher education and science in Kazakhstan.
  • Recognition as Associate Professor in Biology in 2021.
  • Multiple international patents for his innovations in plant biotechnology.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Timur’s research legacy is rooted in the preservation and enhancement of plant biodiversity. His ongoing projects on pistachio and almond biodiversity, as well as his continued focus on cryopreservation and clonal micropropagation, ensure his future contributions will play a pivotal role in sustainable agriculture and plant biotechnology.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Timur Turdiyev’s commitment to advancing plant biotechnology, conservation, and agricultural sustainability continues to shape Kazakhstan’s agricultural landscape. His pioneering work in biotechnological methods for plant preservation and breeding has not only improved agricultural practices but also provided a model for other countries in the region.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Micropropagation of berry crops for creation of germplasm cryobanks
  • Journal: Brazilian Journal of Biology
  • Year: 2024
  • Contributors: T. Turdiyev; I. Kovalchuk; Z. Mukhitdinova; O. Hunger; S. Frolov; B. Kabylbekova
In Vitro Approbation of Microbial Preparations to Shield Fruit Crops from Fire Blight: Physio-Biochemical Parameters
  • Journal: Plants
  • Year: 2024 (May)
  • Contributors: Asil A. Nurzhanova; Aigerim Mamirova; Valentina Mursaliyeva; Asiya S. Nurmagambetova; Zhadyra Zhumasheva; Тимур Турдиев; Svetlana Kushnarenko; Elvira Ismailova
In vitro germplasm cold storage of fruit and berry plants of Kazakhstan
  • Journal: EurAsian Journal of BioSciences
  • Year: 2020
  • Contributors: Turdiyev, T.T.; Kovalchuk, I.Y.; Kabylbekova, B.Z.; Chukanova, N.I.; Frolov, S.N
Reduced major minerals and increased minor nutrients improve micropropagation in three apple cultivars
  • Journal: In Vitro Cellular and Developmental Biology – Plant
  • Year: 2020
  • Contributors: Kabylbekova, B.; Kovalchuk, I.; Mukhitdinova, Z.; Turdiyev, T.; Kairova, G.; Madiyeva, G.; Reed, B.M.
Nitrogen ions and nitrogen ion proportions impact the growth of apricot (Prunus armeniaca) shoot cultures
  • Journal: Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture
  • Year: 2018
  • Contributors: Kovalchuk, I.Y.; Mukhitdinova, Z.; Turdiyev, T.; Madiyeva, G.; Akin, M.; Eyduran, E.; Reed, B.M.