Esmee Verheul – Metabolites and Lipoproteins – Best Researcher Award 

Ms. Esmee Verheul - Metabolites and Lipoproteins - Best Researcher Award 

Leiden University Medical Center - Netherlands

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Esmee A.H. Verheul embarked on her medical journey in 2017 at the prestigious Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), one of the Netherlands' leading institutions in medical education and research. Her initial focus was on acquiring a robust foundation in medicine, which quickly evolved into a specialized interest in trauma surgery. By September 2020, she was deeply immersed in her master’s thesis within the Trauma Surgery department, investigating the crucial role of metabolites and vitamins in assessing the nutritional status of hospitalized patients. This period marked her first significant academic output, resulting in two published articles in reputable journals and presentations at major European surgical congresses.

Professional Endeavors and Research Focus On Metabolites and Lipoproteins

Following her master’s thesis, Esmee progressed to medical internships in September 2021 while continuing her research as a part-time PhD student. Her transition to a full-time PhD student came in April 2024 after earning her Master's degree in Medicine. During her internships, she further expanded her research portfolio, focusing on malnutrition in polytrauma patients—a group uniquely susceptible due to the hypermetabolic states post-injury. Her work has significantly contributed to understanding how malnutrition impacts recovery and hospital outcomes in these patients.

Contributions and Research Impact

Ms. Esmee has completed six research projects, with a total project funding of $44,500, demonstrating significant dedication and capability in handling funded research. Her findings underscore the prevalence of malnutrition among well-nourished polytrauma patients, which spikes significantly during their ICU stay and hospitalization. By identifying potential biomarkers such as lipoproteins, small metabolites, and CT-derived body composition parameters, her research offers new avenues for early diagnosis and nutritional intervention, aiming to enhance clinical outcomes and reduce hospital stay durations.

Accolades and Recognition

While still early in her career, Esmee has achieved notable academic and professional milestones. She has contributed to five conference presentations and published two journal articles indexed in SCI and SCIE, reflecting her active engagement with the scientific community. Her work has been recognized through her presentations at prestigious platforms such as the European Congress of Trauma and Emergency Surgery and the Annual Meeting of the Dutch Surgical Society.

Impact and Influence

Esmee's research is poised to influence clinical practices and policies regarding nutritional management in trauma surgery. Her insights into the malnutrition prevalent among polytrauma patients and the identification of biomarkers for nutritional assessment are critical contributions to the field. These findings have the potential to shift how nutritional support is integrated into patient care protocols, ultimately improving recovery outcomes and reducing complications associated with malnutrition.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Esmee is committed to continuing her research in trauma surgery, with a strong emphasis on improving patient outcomes through better nutritional strategies. Her ongoing PhD research and future studies will likely provide further critical data needed to refine and optimize treatment protocols for polytrauma patients. As she progresses in her career, Esmee's work is expected to form a significant part of her legacy in the field of trauma surgery—improving patient care through rigorous research and innovation.

In summary, Ms. Esmee A.H. Verheul stands out as a dedicated researcher and emerging leader in trauma surgery. Her academic and professional journey reflects a deep commitment to addressing complex medical challenges through innovative research. With her continued focus on malnutrition in polytrauma patients, Esmee is set to make lasting contributions to medical research and patient care.

Notable Publication

 

Rabea Asleh – Cardiology and cardiovascular research – Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Rabea Asleh - Cardiology and cardiovascular research - Best Researcher Award 

Hadassah University Medical Center - Israel

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Rabea Asleh's academic journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a passion for understanding the intricate mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases. Beginning with his Bachelor's degree in Medical Science from the Technion Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel, Prof. Asleh demonstrated exceptional academic prowess, graduating summa cum laude. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology, where he delved into the complexities of diabetic cardiovascular disease under the guidance of Professor Andrew P. Levy. This phase culminated in a groundbreaking thesis elucidating the mechanisms behind the interaction between the haptoglobin polymorphism and diabetic cardiovascular disease, accompanied by a prolific publication record.

Professional Endeavors

Prof. Asleh's professional journey has been marked by a commitment to advancing cardiovascular medicine through clinical practice, research, and education. Following his postdoctoral fellowship at the Laboratory of Vascular Medicine, Technion Faculty of Medicine, he embarked on a journey of medical training, including residencies and fellowships in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Advanced Heart Failure, and Interventional Cardiology. Notably, he honed his expertise at prestigious institutions such as the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Hospital, acquiring comprehensive skills in clinical care and research methodologies.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Asleh's research interests encompass a wide array of topics crucial to understanding and managing cardiovascular diseases. His investigations range from elucidating the role of gut microbiota in heart failure pathogenesis to exploring mechanisms of myocardial inflammation and heart failure development. Noteworthy areas of focus include cardiac allograft vasculopathy, cardiovascular disease in malignancy (cardio-oncology), and the interplay between diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular health. His pioneering work on haptoglobin genotype and HDL dysfunction has significantly contributed to our understanding of cardiovascular risk stratification.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Asleh's contributions to cardiovascular medicine have garnered widespread recognition and acclaim. He has received numerous awards and honors, including the National Wolf Prize for Excellence in Research and the Melvin L. Marcus Young Investigator Award from the American Heart Association. His research grants from prestigious institutions such as the Israel Science Foundation and AstraZeneca underscore the significance of his work and its potential impact on patient care.

Impact and Influence

Prof. Asleh's research has left an indelible mark on the field of cardiovascular medicine, shaping clinical practice and guiding future research endeavors. His discoveries have not only advanced our understanding of disease mechanisms but also paved the way for the development of novel therapeutic interventions aimed at improving patient outcomes.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As a dedicated clinician-scientist and educator, Prof. Asleh's legacy extends beyond his research accomplishments. His mentorship of medical students and involvement in academic activities exemplify his commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Moving forward, Prof. Asleh remains poised to make further breakthroughs in cardiovascular medicine, leveraging his expertise and passion to address unmet clinical needs and drive innovation in the field.

Citations

  • Citations   3705
  • h-index       28
  • i10-index    58

Aneta Aleksova – Medicine/Cardiology – Women Researcher Award 

Assoc Prof Dr. Aneta Aleksova - Medicine/Cardiology - Women Researcher Award 

University of Trieste - Italy

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc Prof Dr. Aneta Aleksova embarked on her academic journey with a degree in Medicine from the "SS Cyril and Methodius" University in Skopje, Macedonia, in 2003. Recognized by the University of Trieste in Degree in Medicine and Surgery, her academic excellence continued with a specialization in Cardiology from the University of Trieste in 2008. Furthering her expertise, she pursued an II level International Master in cardiovascular pathologies, spanning universities in Trieste, Ljubljana, and Graz from 2003 to 2005. Notably, her academic pursuits culminated in a II level Master in Clinical Competence in Intensive Cardiological Care from the University of Florence in 2012-2013, where she earned the highest honors (Vote 110/110 cum laude).

Professional Endeavors

Assoc Prof Dr. Aleksova's professional journey is marked by a diverse array of roles and responsibilities. She began as a Guest Doctor at the Cardiovascular Department "Ospedali Riuniti," Trieste, engaging in clinical research activities. Her expertise evolved as she assumed roles such as Cardiologist Intensivist at the Intensive Cardiac Care Unit at Giuliano Isontina University Hospital and Assistant Professor at the University of Trieste. Over time, she ascended to the position of Associate Professor, specializing in Diseases of the Cardiovascular System.

Contributions and Research Focus On Medicine/Cardiology

Assoc Prof Dr. Aleksova's research focus spans various domains within cardiology, including dilated cardiomyopathy, autoimmune disorders, and the impact of metabolic-nutritional factors on myocardial infarction prognosis. She has been instrumental in several observational prospective cohort studies, exploring novel diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for end-stage heart failure and acute myocardial infarction.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Assoc Prof Dr. Aleksova has garnered numerous accolades and recognitions. Noteworthy among these is the Award in Cardiology from the Triestina Medical Association for her impactful work on the impact of atrial fibrillation on patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. She has also been recognized for her leadership in research projects, securing funding and grants for projects aimed at advancing cardiovascular medicine.

Impact and Influence

Assoc Prof Dr. Aleksova's impact extends beyond her research contributions. As an educator, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of medical professionals, serving as a tutor, mentor, and lecturer across various academic programs. Her expertise in simulated medicine has enhanced training in emergency medicine, contributing to the preparedness of medical professionals in handling cardiac emergencies.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Assoc Prof Dr. Aleksova's legacy lies in her multifaceted contributions to cardiovascular medicine, spanning research, education, and clinical practice. Her commitment to advancing knowledge and improving patient outcomes underscores her dedication to the field. As she continues her academic pursuits and professional endeavors, her future contributions are poised to further elevate the standards of cardiovascular care and inspire future generations of medical professionals.

Citations

  • Citations   1496
  • h-index       22
  • i10-index    40