Cristina Maria Del Prete | Medicine and Dentistry | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Cristina Maria Del Prete | Medicine and Dentistry | Women Researcher Award 

Rehabilitation Department Chair at Local Health Authority Italy

Dr. Cristina Maria Del Prete is a recognized professional in the field of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, known for her commitment to advancing innovative healthcare models, interdisciplinary rehabilitation practices, and measurable improvements in patient quality of life. She completed comprehensive medical education and specialized training in rehabilitation medicine, followed by multiple advanced executive and managerial qualifications focused on healthcare systems, organizational leadership, digital transformation, and strategic management. Her education laid a strong foundation for a career that has spanned clinical practice, healthcare administration, academic teaching, and national health policy participation. Over the years, she has held progressive leadership roles within major public healthcare structures, directing rehabilitation departments, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and overseeing complex service networks involving hospital- and community-based rehabilitation centers. Her responsibilities have included workforce management, budget oversight, strengthening patient-care pathways, improving standards of disability support, and enhancing regional service delivery in alignment with evolving healthcare regulations. She has also actively contributed to national and regional scientific boards, steering committees, and professional societies focused on improving spasticity management, supporting patients with neurological conditions, addressing musculoskeletal pain, and advancing gender-inclusive perspectives within modern healthcare. Her research output reflects a strong blend of clinical relevance and academic rigor, focusing on post-stroke rehabilitation, botulinum toxin interventions in neuromotor disorders, gait analysis, scoliosis management, family coping mechanisms in the context of disability, and the psychological dynamics influencing care outcomes. Her published studies in international peer-reviewed journals demonstrate a dedication to evidence-based rehabilitation, resulting in 63 citations from 55 documents, 7 published scientific works, and an h-index of 4. She has also contributed extensively to academic progress through university teaching appointments across multiple medical programs, where she has trained students in foundational and advanced principles of rehabilitation medicine. International clinical training and professional development programs have further enhanced her expertise and broadened her exposure to advanced rehabilitative technologies, patient-centered methodologies, and global best practices. Throughout her career, she has remained consistently committed to improving health system performance, innovating care delivery frameworks, and conducting research that informs more efficient, equitable, and clinically effective rehabilitation services. Her professional journey reflects a continuous dedication to advancing healthcare quality, supporting both patients and practitioners, and strengthening the scientific foundations of modern rehabilitation.

Featured Publications:

Del Prete, C. M. (2025). Determinants of sibling relationships in the context of mental disorders. PLoS One.

Del Prete, C. M. (2025). Siblings of persons with disabilities: A systematic integrative review of the empirical literature. Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review.

Del Prete, C. M. (2023). Parentification, distress, and relationships with parents as factors shaping relationships in families with disability. Frontiers in Psychiatry.

Del Prete, C. M. (2022). An observational cross-sectional study of gender and disability as determinants of person-centered medicine in botulinum neurotoxin treatment of upper motoneuron syndrome. Toxins.

Del Prete, C. M. (2022). Brace treatment in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A rehabilitative point of view. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Del Prete, C. M. (2021). Early botulinum toxin type A injection for post-stroke spasticity: A longitudinal cohort study. Toxins.

Del Prete, C. M. (2022). Efficacy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous lavage and biocompatible electrical neurostimulation in calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Del Prete, C. M. (2004). Conservative rehabilitative treatment of facial nerve injuries: A critical literature review. Europa Medicophysica.

Del Prete, C. M. (2002). Outcome research in adults with neurological disability. Europa Medicophysica.

Del Prete, C. M. (2001). Therapeutic water exercise in patients with hip arthroplasty. Europa Medicophysica.

murat akbaba | Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. murat akbaba | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Forensic medicine specialist MD at gaziantep üniversity medicinie faculty forensic medicine department, Turkey.

Dr. Murat Akbaba is a distinguished forensic medicine specialist and Assistant Professor at Gaziantep University, Faculty of Medicine. With a solid background in forensic research, he has significantly contributed to the field through numerous publications, books, and innovative research projects. His work focuses on forensic toxicology, wound age determination, and forensic epidemiology. Over the years, he has been actively involved in medico-legal investigations, consultancy projects, and academic training, shaping the next generation of forensic professionals. Dr. Akbaba has authored several books and book chapters that serve as key resources in forensic law and medical jurisprudence. His research findings have been published in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, reflecting his commitment to advancing forensic medicine. He has also participated in interdisciplinary research on psychoactive substances and genetic influences on criminal behavior, showcasing his diverse expertise. Despite an already impressive academic profile, Dr. Akbaba continues to explore new forensic methodologies and collaborate on international projects. His dedication to forensic science, combined with his extensive teaching and research experience, makes him a valuable asset to the academic and scientific community. He remains committed to enhancing forensic research through technological advancements and interdisciplinary approaches, solidifying his reputation as a leading expert in forensic medicine.

Professional Profile: 

Education

Dr. Murat Akbaba began his academic journey at Antalya Anatolian High School, where he graduated in 1992. He then pursued his medical degree at Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine, earning his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2000. Following his medical education, he gained practical experience as a general practitioner for six years, further refining his clinical skills. His passion for forensic science led him to specialize in forensic medicine at Gaziantep University, where he completed his residency and obtained his forensic medicine specialization in 2012. During his specialization, he actively engaged in medico-legal case studies, forensic toxicology, and wound analysis research, which laid the foundation for his future academic contributions. To fulfill his compulsory service requirements, he worked for three years in Adıyaman, where he further developed his forensic expertise. Since 2015, he has been an academician at Gaziantep University’s Department of Forensic Medicine, contributing significantly to research and education. His extensive academic background has equipped him with a deep understanding of forensic medicine, medical law, and toxicology, making him a key figure in forensic science education and research. His continuous pursuit of knowledge and forensic advancements underscores his commitment to excellence in the field.

Professional Experience

Dr. Murat Akbaba has built an extensive career in forensic medicine, spanning over two decades. After completing his MD in 2000, he worked as a general practitioner for six years, gaining firsthand experience in clinical medicine and patient care. In 2012, after earning his forensic medicine specialization from Gaziantep University, he undertook a three-year compulsory service in Adıyaman, where he worked on forensic case evaluations, medico-legal autopsies, and forensic toxicology analyses. His expertise in forensic investigations led to his appointment as an academician in the Department of Forensic Medicine at Gaziantep University in 2015. Since then, he has been actively involved in forensic research, medical education, and consultancy projects. He has played a crucial role in training medical students, forensic professionals, and law enforcement personnel on forensic case analysis and medical jurisprudence. His work extends to forensic toxicology, crime scene investigations, and medico-legal consultations. He has also been involved in interdisciplinary research projects focusing on psychoactive substances and genetic markers associated with criminal behavior. His vast professional experience has positioned him as an authority in forensic medicine, contributing to policy-making, forensic education, and scientific research, making him a respected figure in both academic and forensic communities.

Research Interest

Dr. Murat Akbaba’s research interests span multiple domains of forensic medicine, including forensic toxicology, wound age determination, forensic genetics, and medico-legal evaluations. One of his primary research areas is forensic toxicology, where he focuses on the analysis of psychoactive substances, including synthetic cannabinoids and new narcotic substances. His work in this field has led to significant advancements in detecting drug stability in biological samples using advanced analytical techniques like LC-MS/MS. Another key area of interest is wound age determination, where he has conducted immunohistochemical studies to assess injury timelines, aiding in forensic investigations. Additionally, he has explored genetic predispositions to criminal behavior, analyzing specific gene markers such as tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (rs7305115) and slc6a4 (rs4795541) in juvenile offenders. His interdisciplinary approach combines forensic science, medicine, and molecular biology to enhance investigative accuracy. His contributions to forensic epidemiology, including studies on childhood deaths and forensic case evaluations, have provided valuable insights into medico-legal case management. His research has practical implications for forensic case resolutions, law enforcement, and judicial processes. He continues to explore new methodologies to enhance forensic investigations, emphasizing technological advancements and interdisciplinary collaborations in forensic medicine.

Research Skills

Dr. Murat Akbaba possesses a diverse set of research skills that have contributed significantly to forensic science. His expertise in forensic toxicology allows him to analyze narcotic substances, identify toxicological profiles, and determine drug stability in biological samples. He has mastered advanced analytical techniques such as Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for forensic toxicology applications. His proficiency in immunohistochemical analysis has been instrumental in wound age determination, helping forensic investigators establish injury timelines accurately. He is also skilled in forensic genetics, utilizing molecular biology techniques to investigate genetic predispositions to criminal behavior. His experience in forensic epidemiology enables him to analyze forensic case data, identify crime patterns, and contribute to policy recommendations. He has authored several high-impact journal articles and books, demonstrating his ability to conduct comprehensive forensic research and disseminate knowledge effectively. His strong methodological approach, coupled with statistical analysis skills, ensures accuracy in forensic case evaluations. His ability to collaborate across disciplines enhances the practical applications of his research. His forensic consultancy skills extend to medico-legal reporting, expert testimony, and forensic investigations, making him a key contributor to forensic science advancements. His commitment to methodological excellence and innovation continues to shape forensic research and practice.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Murat Akbaba has received numerous recognitions for his contributions to forensic medicine and academic research. His research excellence has been acknowledged through multiple publications in high-impact forensic journals, reflecting his influence in forensic toxicology, wound age determination, and forensic epidemiology. He has co-authored several books and book chapters that serve as fundamental references in forensic medicine education. His work on synthetic cannabinoids and genetic predisposition to crime has received critical acclaim for its innovative approach. He has been invited to present his research findings at national and international forensic conferences, highlighting his expertise in forensic investigations. He has also contributed to medico-legal policy discussions, strengthening forensic case management practices. His academic contributions have earned him recognition within the forensic and medical communities, positioning him as a thought leader in forensic science. His commitment to excellence and continued contributions to forensic research ensure his lasting impact in the field.

Conclusion

Dr. Murat Akbaba is a highly accomplished forensic medicine specialist whose contributions to forensic toxicology, wound age determination, and forensic genetics have significantly advanced the field. With extensive academic experience, numerous research publications, and interdisciplinary expertise, he has established himself as a leading figure in forensic science. His ability to integrate medical, legal, and scientific approaches into forensic research has made a lasting impact on medico-legal investigations. While his achievements are commendable, further international collaborations and patent acquisitions could enhance his global recognition. His dedication to forensic education and research continues to shape the future of forensic science, making him an ideal candidate for prestigious research awards. His work not only contributes to academic advancements but also aids in the practical application of forensic investigations, ensuring justice and accuracy in medico-legal cases. As he continues his research journey, his contributions will remain instrumental in the evolution of forensic medicine.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Analysis of new psychoactive substances…
    • Authors: Şaştim, M.U., Akbaba, M.
    • Year: 2024
  2. The role of CRHR1 and FKBP5 genes in juvenile delinquency…
    • Authors: Akbaba, M., Baransel Isir, A., Kılıç, M., Nacarkahya, G.
    • Year: 2024
  3. A medicolegal approach to the very rare Auto-Brewery syndrome
    • Authors: Akbaba, M.
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 11
  4. What approach should be taken towards maxillofacial trauma…
    • Authors: Atan, Y., Akbaba, M., Tataroglu, Z., Das, V., Yulug, E.
    • Year: 2019
  5. Does the serotonin receptor gene (rs6313 and rs6314) polymorphism have a role in suicidal attempts?
    • Authors: Atan, Y., Akbaba, M., Kul, S., Nacarkahya, G., Arslan, A.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 1
  6. Assessment of patients’ knowledge level regarding informed consent…
    • Authors: Erkan, I., Mayadagli, Y., Akbaba, M.
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 4
  7. Determination of skin wound age by using cytokines as potential markers
    • Authors: Birincioğlu, İ., Akbaba, M., Alver, A., Şentürk, A., İnce, İ.
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 17
  8. The doctor in a vise between health and the law: What to do?
    • Authors: Akbaba, M., Davutoğlu, V.
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 3
  9. Is it possible to make early wound age estimation by immunohistochemical methods?
    • Authors: Kara, S., Akbaba, M., Kul, S., Bakır, K.
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 2