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

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

Rehabilitation Department Chair atΒ Local Health AuthorityΒ 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.

Tom Schimanski | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Tom Schimanski | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher AwardΒ Β 

Student atΒ UniversitΓ€t Regensburg |Β Germany

Mr. Tom Schimanski is an emerging researcher at UniversitΓ€t Regensburg whose work bridges the intersection of medicine, surgery and biomedical innovation. His academic background reflects an early commitment to scientific rigor and medical advancement, culminating in advanced studies and a doctoral research focus within the Department of Plastic, Hand, and Reconstructive Surgery. Building upon a foundation of clinical training, he has developed extensive expertise in translational medicine, integrating laboratory research with real-world surgical applications. His scholarly engagement is marked by active participation in experimental studies addressing tissue regeneration, cellular responses, and cryopreservation methodologies for adipose and connective tissues. Mr. Tom Schimanski’s contributions to the scientific community are evident through his publications in internationally indexed journals such as Cells, where his research explores mechanisms of ferroptosis, biocompatibility of anesthetics, exosome mediated cellular communication, and innovative imaging approaches like multispectral optoacoustic tomography. With 3 published documents, 1 citation, and an h-index of 1, he exemplifies the diligence and precision of a young scientist dedicated to building a lasting impact in medical science. His ongoing collaborations with institutions such as Helmholtz Zentrum MΓΌnchen further strengthen his multidisciplinary approach, combining cellular biology, materials science, and reconstructive medicine. Mr. Tom Schimanski’s research interests encompass tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, biomaterials development, and translational surgery, focusing on developing clinically viable strategies to enhance wound healing and graft preservation. His work also reflects a broader vision for integrating biotechnological innovations into surgical practice, fostering advancements that align patient safety with scientific discovery. Through his deep engagement in both experimental and clinical contexts, he continues to advance methodologies that could redefine regenerative outcomes and improve the sustainability of reconstructive procedures. With a growing research record and a strong foundation in evidence-based medicine, Mr. Tom Schimanski represents a new generation of clinician-scientists whose contributions are shaping the evolving landscape of biomedical research and surgical innovation. His pursuit of excellence underscores a commitment to translating science into tangible medical progress, marking him as a promising and impactful figure in contemporary medical research.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Schimanski, T., Loucas, R., Loucas, M., BrΓ©bant, V., Anker, A., Klein, S., Diesch, S. T., Pagani, A., & Prantl, L. (2025). Histological and immunohistochemical characteristics of mechanically processed adipose tissue A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cells, 14(21), 1664.

Schimanski, T., Prantl, L., Eigenberger, A., Felthaus, O., Loucas, R., Utpatel, K., & Steer, K. (2025). CELTPLUS fat increases the metabolic activity as well as the SVF-yield significantly when compared to CELT fat, even after cryopreservation with DMSO. Cells, 14(16), 1270.

Schimanski, T., Loucas, R., Loucas, M., Felthaus, O., BrΓ©bant, V., Klein, S., Anker, A., Frank, K., Siegmund, A., Pagani, A., & Prantl, L. (2025). Histology and immunohistochemistry of adipose tissue: A scoping review on staining methods and their informative value. Cells, 14(12), 898.

Eigenberger, A., Felthaus, O., Bartsch, A., Schimanski, T., Utpatel, K., & Prantl, L. (2025). The influence of sedimentation on the composition of the lipoaspirate and the effects on further mechanical processing. Cells, 14(8), 601.

Victor Adepoju | Global Health | Excellence in Research

Dr. Victor Adepoju | Global Health | Excellence in Research

Director, Infectious diseases and Research at Jhpiego, Nigeria.

Dr. Victor Adepoju is a distinguished public health physician, researcher, and strategic information expert with over 14 years of experience managing large-scale global health programs across various income settings. As a Portfolio Director at Jhpiego, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, he leads multi-million-dollar projects in infectious diseases, maternal health, and immunization. With expertise in TB, HIV, viral hepatitis, and health systems strengthening, he has over 70 peer-reviewed publications and has contributed to WHO guidelines. Fluent in English and Yoruba, he is a global health leader driving universal health coverage and healthcare innovation.

Professional Profile:

Google Scholar

Education & Experience πŸŽ“πŸ’Ό

  • MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery) – Obafemi Awolowo University πŸ₯
  • MSc (International Management of Health Systems) – University of Liverpool 🌍
  • Master Certificate in Healthcare Leadership – Cornell University 🎯
  • PhD (Public Health) – Crown International University πŸ†
  • Portfolio Director, Jhpiego (Johns Hopkins University Affiliate) (2021–Present) 🌍
  • Over 14 years in global health, working with USAID, Global Fund, GAVI, and UNITAID πŸ’‘

Professional Development πŸ“ˆπŸ©Ί

Dr. Adepoju is a seasoned expert in global health implementation, policy, and research. He has designed and led health interventions for TB, HIV, maternal and child health, and neglected tropical diseases, securing over $100 million in funding. His work in operational research, health systems strengthening, and digital health innovations has shaped policies globally. With experience in capacity building, health financing, and universal health coverage, he has collaborated with Ministries of Health, civil society, and donors. A thought leader in market shaping, he drives equitable access to healthcare solutions for vulnerable populations worldwide.

Research Focus πŸ”¬πŸ“š

Dr. Adepoju’s research spans infectious diseases (HIV, TB, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, and mpox), neglected tropical diseases, and maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH). His expertise extends to universal health coverage, health systems strengthening, and innovative diagnostics. He is a leader in market shaping, improving access to essential medicines and vaccines in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). His work also includes health financing, strategic information, and public-private partnerships. His contributions to implementation science have shaped WHO policies and national health guidelines across multiple regions.

Awards & Honors πŸ…πŸŽ–

  • An Excellence in Global Health Leadership Award πŸŒπŸ†
  • USAID/Global Fund Project Recognition Award πŸ₯πŸ’‘
  • Jhpiego Outstanding Leadership Award πŸ…
  • Best Public Health Research Paper Award πŸ“–
  • UNITAID Health Innovation Award πŸ’‰
  • Certificate of Excellence in Health Systems Strengthening πŸ†
  • Recognition for Policy Contribution to WHO Guidelines πŸ“œ

Publication Top Notes

πŸ“„ Global, regional, and national burden of diabetes from 1990 to 2021, with projections of prevalence to 2050: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 – The Lancet 402 (10397), 203-234 πŸ“… 2023 πŸ” Cited by: 1972

πŸ“„ Global incidence, prevalence, years lived with disability (YLDs), disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), and healthy life expectancy (HALE) for 371 diseases and injuries in 204 countries and territories, 1990–2021 – The Lancet 403 (10440), 2133-2161 πŸ“… 2024 πŸ” Cited by: 566

πŸ“„ Global burden of 288 causes of death and life expectancy decomposition in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1990–2021: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 – The Lancet 403 (10440), 2100-2132 πŸ“… 2024 πŸ” Cited by: 530

πŸ“„ Global age-sex-specific mortality, life expectancy, and population estimates in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1950–2021, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic – The Lancet 403 (10440), 1989-2056 πŸ“… 2024 πŸ” Cited by: 321

πŸ“„ The burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance in the WHO African region in 2019: a cross-country systematic analysis – The Lancet Global Health 12 (2), e201-e216 πŸ“… 2024 πŸ” Cited by: 112

πŸ“„ Global fertility in 204 countries and territories, 1950–2021, with forecasts to 2100: a comprehensive demographic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 – The Lancet 403 (10440), 2057-2099 πŸ“… 2024 πŸ” Cited by: 97

πŸ“„ Global, regional, and national incidence and mortality burden of non-COVID-19 lower respiratory infections and aetiologies, 1990–2021: a systematic analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 – The Lancet Infectious Diseases 24 (9), 974-1002 πŸ“… 2024 πŸ” Cited by: 60

πŸ“„ Global, regional, and national incidence of six major immune-mediated inflammatory diseases: findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 – EClinicalMedicine 64 πŸ“… 2023 πŸ” Cited by: 54

πŸ“„ Prevalence of rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis and associated factors among presumptive tuberculosis patients in a secondary referral hospital in Lagos, Nigeria – African Health Sciences 18 (3), 472-478 πŸ“… 2018 πŸ” Cited by: 48

πŸ“„ Childhood tuberculosis in Nigeria: disease presentation and treatment outcomes – Health Services Insights 11, 1178632918757490 πŸ“… 2018 πŸ” Cited by: 40