Liliana Elena Weimer | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Best Researcher Award

Liliana Elena Weimer
Italian National Institute of Health, Italy
Liliana Elena Weimer
Affiliation Italian National Institute of Health
Country Italy
Google Scholar 2q3g0CAAAAAJ
Documents 128
Citations 2,534
h-index 22
Subject Area Medicine and Health Sciences
Event Top Teachers Awards
Scopus ID 6701388312
ORCID 0000-0002-1554-3150

Liliana Elena Weimer is a medical doctor and clinical researcher with over 30 years of experience in infectious diseases, clinical trials, and global health. Since 2022 she serves as First Researcher (Level II) at the Center for Global Health – Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy. Her career spans landmark HIV/HCV studies, COVID‑19 surveillance, Long‑COVID coordination, and international collaborations with WHO, the G20, and the American Clinical Trials Group.[1][2]

She has participated in national and multinational cohort studies, public health surveillance programs, and clinical research initiatives focused on infectious diseases and global health. As of September 2026, she has authored or co-authored more than 177 scientific publications and has contributed to research programs involving the American Clinical Trials Group, European collaborative projects, WHO-related activities, and Italian national surveillance systems. Her scholarly profile reflects sustained engagement in evidence-based medicine, public health research, and clinical investigation across several decades.[1][2]

Abstract

This article presents the academic and research profile of Dr. Liliana Elena Weimer, nominated for the Best Researcher Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to clinical virology, public health surveillance, and international collaborative research. With a career spanning more than three decades at the Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Dr. Weimer has coordinated national and multinational trials on HIV and HCV, contributed to the PITER cohort (25,000 patients), and led COVID‑19 and Long‑COVID surveillance protocols. Her work is characterised by high‑impact publications, a consistent h‑index of 22, and active engagement in European projects (ORCHESTRA, PREVENT Horizon, SHIELD). The nomination is supported by her record of public competition successes, teaching, and service with Doctors Without Borders.[1]

Keywords

Best Researcher Award, HIV/HCV clinical trials, PITER cohort, COVID‑19 surveillance, Long‑COVID, Malattie Infettive Long Covid, Doctor in Medicine, Infectious Diseases.

Introduction

The Best Researcher Award recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional scientific output, leadership, and translational impact. Liliana Elena Weimer, MD, has built a distinguished career at the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), where she has been instrumental in shaping infectious disease research in Italy and beyond. Her work encompasses antiretroviral therapy optimisation, hepatitis C elimination strategies, and the establishment of national surveillance systems for HIV, HCV, and SARS‑CoV‑2. Notably, she is a member of the ISS COVID‑19 National Surveillance Group and the PITER study coordination team, and she contributes to WHO guidelines on Long‑Covid. Her international collaborations and sustained publication record make her a strong candidate for this award.[3]

Research Profile

Dr. Liliana Elena Weimer holds a medical degree from the University of Buenos Aires and a second MD from the University of L’Aquila, with specialisations in Infectious Diseases and Clinical Pharmacology. She has been a researcher at ISS since 1990, winning public competitions for fixed‑term, permanent, and First Researcher positions. Her research profile is characterised by a strong commitment to clinical epidemiology and trial methodology. She has contributed to landmark studies such as ACTG 384/388 (Italy‑USA AIDS trials), the PITER HCV cohort, and the European ORCHESTRA project. She also coordinates the national Long‑COVID surveillance protocol (2021‑2026) funded by the Italian Ministry of Health. With over 128 documents, 2,534 citations, and an h‑index of 22 (Scopus), she maintains a visible presence in the field.[2][4]

  • Senior Clinical Researcher at the Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), Rome.
  • More than three decades of experience in multicenter clinical trials and epidemiological research.
  • Collaborator with international HIV and HCV research networks.
  • Contributor to national SARS-CoV-2 and Long COVID surveillance programs.
  • Participant in European collaborative projects including ORCHESTRA, PREVENT Horizon, SHIELD, EURO-PERISTAT, and JA-05.
  • Member of professional organizations focused on infectious diseases and public health.

Research Contributions

Dr. Liliana Elena Weimer’s contributions are organised around three pillars: clinical trials and cohort studies, public health surveillance, and global health collaborations. She has coordinated over twenty national and international multicentre trials, including the Italian Protease Inhibitors Registry and the NIA surveillance network. As part of the PITER study, she contributed to the largest Italian HCV cohort (25,000 patients), informing treatment strategies for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, she joined the ISS national surveillance group and collaborated with Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, providing clinical and epidemiological support. She also serves as an external consultant for WHO’s Long‑Covid guidelines and is a member of the Brussels Network of Expertise on Long‑Covid.[5]

Liliana Elena Weimer’s research portfolio encompasses HIV treatment optimization, hepatitis C management, SARS-CoV-2 surveillance, and Long COVID characterization. Her participation in national cohort studies and international clinical trials has contributed to understanding treatment effectiveness, patient outcomes, and disease epidemiology.[1][3]

  • Clinical trials and cohort studies involving HIV therapies.
  • Research on HCV treatment outcomes and long-term virological response.
  • Investigation of monoclonal antibody strategies against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.
  • Long COVID symptom characterization and longitudinal follow-up studies.
  • Public health surveillance and antimicrobial resistance research.
  • Support for healthcare access initiatives in resource-limited settings.

Publications

Dr. Liliana Elena Weimer has authored or co‑authored more than 120 peer‑reviewed articles, book chapters, and monographs. Her work appears in high‑impact journals including Hepatology, Children, and Journal of Pediatrics Research Reviews. She received the Best Research Award from the journal Children (IF 2.5) for a study on the clinical characterisation of adolescents with Long‑COVID. She has also published two books on post‑COVID sequelae and SARS‑CoV‑2 variants. Below is a selection of her most cited works:

  • Morgan TR, Ghany MG, Kim HY, Snow KK, Shiffman ML, De Santo JL, … Weimer LE (2010). Outcome of sustained virological responders with histologically advanced chronic hepatitis C. Hepatology, 52(3):833‑844.
  • George SL, Bacon BR, Brunt EM, Mihindukulasuriya KL, Hoffmann J, … Weimer LE (2009). Clinical, virologic, histologic, and biochemical outcomes after successful HCV therapy: a 5‑year follow‑up of 150 patients. Hepatology, 49(3):729‑738.
  • Saxena V, Nyberg L, Pauly M, Dasgupta A, Nyberg A, Piasecki B, … Weimer LE (2015). Safety and efficacy of simeprevir/sofosbuvir in hepatitis C–infected patients with compensated and decompensated cirrhosis. Hepatology, 62(3):715‑725.

Research Impact

With over 2,534 citations and an h‑index of 22, Dr. Liliana Elena Weimer’s work has shaped clinical practice in hepatitis C and HIV care. Her studies on sustained virologic response and long‑term outcomes after HCV therapy are frequently cited in guidelines. She has received multiple recognitions, including an Abstract of Distinction at the AASLD Liver Meeting (2018) and the 2025 Best Research Award from Children journal. She was a Special Invitee to the G20 Health Summit 2023 and serves as a lay judge at the Court of Assizes in Rome. Her impact extends beyond academia: she is a volunteer with Doctors Without Borders (since 1992), providing AIDS therapies in Brazil, and actively participates in public health emergency responses.[1][3]

Award Suitability

The Best Researcher Award recognises sustained excellence, and Dr. Liliana Elena Weimer’s trajectory exemplifies this. She has won three public competitions at the ISS (fixed‑term, permanent, and First Researcher), demonstrating peer‑reviewed career progression. She coordinates the national PITER HCV cohort and the Long‑COVID surveillance protocol, and she has contributed to WHO guidelines. Her publication record includes landmark articles in hepatology, and she has received journal‑level awards for her work on Long‑COVID. Her international collaborations with the American Clinical Trials Group, INSERM, and the European Commission place her among the leading clinical researchers in Italy. This award would further acknowledge her role in translating research into public health action.[4]

Conclusion

Dr. Liliana Elena Weimer is a medical researcher of high calibre, with a career that bridges clinical trials, epidemiological surveillance, and global health equity. Her work on HIV, HCV, and COVID‑19 has informed national and international guidelines, and her commitment to service—through Doctors Without Borders and public health emergencies—distinguishes her as a compassionate and effective leader. The data presented—128 documents, 2,534 citations, h‑index 22, and consistent recognition—support her nomination for the Best Researcher Award. Her profile aligns with the core values of the award: scientific rigor, translational impact, and dedication to improving human health.[5]

References

  1. Scopus. (n.d.). Author details: Weimer, Liliana Elena, Author ID 6701388312. Scopus Preview.https://www.scopus.com/pages/authors/6701388312
  2. Google Scholar. (n.d.). Liliana Elena Weimer – citations & h‑index. Google Scholar.https://scholar.google.co.uk/citations?user=2q3g0CAAAAAJ
  3. Morgan, T. R., Ghany, M. G., Kim, H. Y., Snow, K. K., Shiffman, M. L., De Santo, J. L., … & Weimer, L. E. (2010). Outcome of sustained virological responders with histologically advanced chronic hepatitis C. Hepatology, 52(3), 833‑844. https://doi.org/10.1002/hep.23744
  4. George, S. L., Bacon, B. R., Brunt, E. M., Mihindukulasuriya, K. L., Hoffmann, J., … & Weimer, L. E. (2009). Clinical, virologic, histologic, and biochemical outcomes after successful HCV therapy: a 5‑year follow‑up of 150 patients. Hepatology, 49(3), 729‑738. https://doi.org/10.1002/hep.22694
  5. Saxena, V., Nyberg, L., Pauly, M., Dasgupta, A., Nyberg, A., Piasecki, B., … & Weimer, L. E. (2015). Safety and efficacy of simeprevir/sofosbuvir in hepatitis C–infected patients with compensated and decompensated cirrhosis. Hepatology, 62(3), 715‑725. https://doi.org/10.1002/hep.27922

Benjamin Ajibade | Nursing and Health Professions | Innovative Research Award

Innovative Research Award

Benjamin Ajibade
Northumbria University, United Kingdom
Benjamin Ajibade
Affiliation Northumbria University
Country United Kingdom
Scopus ID 57355622100
Documents 12
Citations 48
h-index 3
Subject Area Nursing and Health Professions
Event Top Teachers Awards
ORCID 0000-0002-0204-4205
Google Scholar MiIjB38AAAAJ

Benjamin Ajibade is a mental health nursing academic, researcher, educator, and institutional leader affiliated with Northumbria University in the United Kingdom. His academic profile combines extensive clinical nursing experience, higher education leadership, doctoral supervision, curriculum innovation, inclusive teaching practice, and interdisciplinary research. His scholarly contributions have focused on nursing education, mental health, equity and inclusion, international student experiences, healthcare access, dementia care, and culturally responsive educational methodologies including LEGO® Serious Play®.[1]

With more than three decades of combined clinical and academic experience, Benjamin Ajibade has contributed to nursing scholarship through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, research supervision, editorial service, external examining activities, grant-funded projects, and leadership of initiatives aimed at widening participation and advancing equity within higher education and healthcare systems.[1]

Abstract

This article presents an academic overview of Benjamin Ajibade’s professional achievements, scholarly contributions, educational leadership, research supervision, community engagement, and service to nursing education. Particular attention is given to his work in mental health nursing, inclusion and diversity initiatives, international student transition research, doctoral supervision, curriculum innovation, and externally funded projects. The profile also evaluates his suitability for recognition through the Innovative Research Award associated with the Top Teachers Awards based on documented evidence of academic leadership, research activity, educational innovation, and professional impact.[1]

Keywords

Mental Health Nursing; Nursing Education; Higher Education; Inclusivity; Equity and Diversity; LEGO® Serious Play®; Doctoral Supervision; Curriculum Development; Healthcare Research; International Students; Dementia Care; Research Leadership; Community Engagement; Educational Innovation.

Introduction

Benjamin Ajibade serves as Assistant Professor in Mental Health Nursing within the Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health at Northumbria University. His career spans clinical nursing, healthcare management, academic leadership, teaching, research, and professional service. Throughout his career he has worked across multiple healthcare and higher education institutions in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom, contributing to nursing practice, professional development, educational innovation, and evidence-informed healthcare delivery.[1]

His academic interests encompass mental health nursing, public health, research methodologies, healthcare equity, educational transitions, student wellbeing, dementia care, and decolonisation of curricula. These themes are reflected in his scholarly outputs, funded projects, conference presentations, doctoral supervision activities, and leadership roles within national and international educational networks.[1]

Research Profile

Benjamin Ajibade completed a Professional Doctorate in Nursing at the University of Sunderland, where his doctoral thesis investigated sociocultural factors influencing Nigerian nursing students transitioning into UK higher education through the application of LEGO® Serious Play® methodology. This research established a foundation for subsequent scholarly work concerning international student experiences, belonging, educational transitions, and inclusive pedagogical practice.[2]

His research portfolio demonstrates engagement with mental health, educational equity, public health, ageing, dementia, healthcare access, minority ethnic experiences, postgraduate research participation, and anti-racist educational practices. He has also contributed to collaborative projects funded through national and institutional initiatives focused on inclusion, healthcare access, and postgraduate researcher development.[1]

  • Institutional Lead for the Pro:NE project.
  • Principal and co-investigator on multiple healthcare and educational research initiatives.
  • Supervisor of undergraduate, postgraduate, professional doctorate, and PhD research.
  • Contributor to equality, diversity, and inclusion scholarship.
  • Researcher in nursing education and international student transitions.

Research Contributions

A notable aspect of Benjamin Ajibade’s scholarly contribution is the application of innovative educational methodologies to investigate complex sociocultural experiences. His work using LEGO® Serious Play® methodology has explored student transitions, learning experiences, and inclusion within higher education settings. Such research has contributed to broader discussions concerning student engagement, belonging, and educational equity.[2]

His contributions also extend to healthcare service accessibility and health equity research. Publications addressing reproductive health access barriers, minority ethnic healthcare experiences, dementia care, and postgraduate research participation demonstrate an interdisciplinary approach that integrates education, nursing, and public health perspectives.[4]

  • Research on educational transitions among international nursing students.
  • Studies promoting inclusivity and decolonisation in nursing education.
  • Projects addressing healthcare access among minoritised communities.
  • Research leadership in postgraduate researcher development initiatives.
  • Development of evidence-informed educational practices and mentorship frameworks.

Publications

Benjamin Ajibade’s most cited publications examine patient-centred care planning, international nursing student transitions, and innovative LEGO® Serious Play® methodology, contributing to nursing education, inclusion, and healthcare access research.[2][3][4][5]

Ajibade’s publication record includes peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, preprints, educational research outputs, and collaborative healthcare studies. Several publications have addressed nursing practice, international education, healthcare access, and student wellbeing.[2][3][4]

Research Impact

The documented impact of Benjamin Ajibade’s work can be observed across research, teaching, supervision, policy engagement, and professional practice. His funded projects have supported work on healthcare inclusion, culturally responsive care, postgraduate researcher development, and educational equity. He has also supervised substantial numbers of undergraduate and postgraduate students and has contributed to doctoral supervision, examination, and mentoring activities.[1]

Beyond formal research outputs, his leadership within equality and diversity initiatives, editorial responsibilities, external examiner appointments, validation panels, and healthcare stakeholder collaborations demonstrates broader academic influence extending beyond institutional boundaries.[1]

Award Suitability

Benjamin Ajibade’s profile demonstrates multiple characteristics commonly associated with academic recognition for innovative research and educational leadership. These include sustained engagement with research-informed teaching, innovative methodological approaches, leadership of externally funded projects, commitment to equity and inclusion, doctoral supervision, international academic collaboration, and dissemination of scholarship through publications and conferences.[1]

His use of LEGO® Serious Play® methodology in higher education research, leadership of initiatives supporting minoritised postgraduate researchers, involvement in healthcare equity projects, and contributions to curriculum transformation collectively provide evidence of innovation and impact within nursing education and healthcare scholarship.[3][5]

Conclusion

Benjamin Ajibade represents a scholar-practitioner whose career integrates nursing practice, higher education leadership, inclusive pedagogy, research supervision, and interdisciplinary scholarship. His contributions to mental health nursing education, educational equity, healthcare inclusion, and international student research have established a record of professional achievement and academic service. The available evidence indicates a sustained commitment to advancing knowledge, supporting learners, and promoting equitable healthcare and educational environments, supporting consideration for recognition through the Innovative Research Award.[1]

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Benjamin Ajibade, Author ID 57355622100. Scopus. https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57355622100
  2. Ajibade, B. (2021). Assessing the patient’s needs and planning effective care. British Journal of Nursing, 30(20), 1166-1171. DOI: https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2021.30.20.1166
  3. Ajibade, B.O., & Hayes, C. (2022). Using LEGO® Serious Play® Methodology in supporting Nigerian nursing students’ sociocultural transitions to UK higher education. Nurse Education Today, 119, 105582. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2022.105582
  4. Ajibade, B., Oguguo, C., Ling, J., & Eberhardt, J. (2022). Recommendations for removing access barriers to effective sexual/reproductive health services for young people in South East Nigeria: A systematic review. International Journal of Sexual and Reproductive Health Care. https://research.tees.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/55499093/IJSRHC_5_137.pdf
  5. Ajibade, B.O., & Hayes, C. (2020). An insight into utilising LEGO® Serious Play® to explore international student transitions into a UK higher education institution. SAGE Publications Ltd. https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=MiIjB38AAAAJ&hl=en&oi=sra

Saksham Kohli | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Best Researcher Award

Saksham Kohli
Cook County Health

Saksham Kohli
Affiliation Cook County Health
Country United States
Scopus ID 59495632900
Documents 52
Citations 4
Subject Area Health Professions
Event Top Teachers Awards
ORCID 0000-0001-6983-1804

The Best Researcher Award recognition highlights the scholarly activities and emerging research contributions of Saksham Kohli at Cook County Health. Working within the field of Health Professions, Saksham Kohli has contributed to studies involving gastroenterology, hepatology, nephrology, and healthcare outcomes research. Recent publications demonstrate engagement with evidence-based clinical investigations addressing inpatient outcomes, quality improvement methodologies, readmission patterns, and patient survival analyses.[1] Through interdisciplinary research and participation in contemporary clinical studies, Saksham Kohli has supported the advancement of knowledge relevant to healthcare quality, patient management, and population-level medical outcomes.[2]

Abstract

This article presents an academic overview of Saksham Kohli and the research profile associated with recognition under the Best Researcher Award category. The researcher’s recent scholarly output focuses on clinical outcomes, gastrointestinal diseases, healthcare quality assessment, and patient-centered investigations. Published studies have addressed metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease, endoscopy performance evaluation, alcoholic hepatitis readmissions, and survival considerations among elderly dialysis patients.[2]

Keywords

Health Professions, Gastroenterology, Clinical Outcomes Research, Healthcare Quality Improvement, Hepatology, Readmission Studies, Evidence-Based Medicine.

Introduction

Healthcare research plays a significant role in improving clinical practice, patient outcomes, and healthcare system efficiency. Researchers working across medical specialties contribute to evidence generation that supports informed decision-making and policy development. Saksham Kohli’s published work reflects participation in studies examining disease burden, treatment outcomes, healthcare utilization, and quality improvement initiatives within contemporary clinical settings.[3]

Research Profile

Affiliated with Cook County Health in the United States, Saksham Kohli has developed a research profile centered on applied clinical investigations. Indexed under Scopus Author ID 59495632900, the researcher has contributed to publications spanning gastroenterology, hepatology, nephrology, and healthcare analytics. These studies demonstrate engagement with real-world healthcare datasets and outcome-oriented medical research.[1]

Research Contributions

The research contributions of Saksham Kohli include analyses of metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and its impact on inpatient outcomes, assessments of endoscope tip angulation performance, nationwide evaluations of alcoholic hepatitis readmissions, and investigations involving elderly dialysis populations.[2] These studies contribute to clinical understanding by examining patient outcomes, healthcare quality metrics, and disease management strategies using quantitative methodologies.[4]

Publications

  • Impact of Metabolic-Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and Steatohepatitis (MASH) on Clostridioides difficile Inpatient Outcomes.
  • Quantitative Assessment of Endoscope Tip Angulation Performance in New Endoscopes.
  • Trends, Predictors, and Outcomes of 30- and 90-Day Readmissions Following Alcoholic Hepatitis.
  • Octogenarians on Dialysis; Navigating Survival Amidst Struggles.

Research Impact

The available publication record demonstrates contributions to clinically relevant topics affecting patient care and healthcare delivery. Research addressing liver disease outcomes, readmission risk factors, endoscopic performance, and nephrology-related survival outcomes provides useful evidence for healthcare professionals and researchers seeking to improve treatment effectiveness and quality standards.[5]

Award Suitability

Saksham Kohli’s profile aligns with the objectives of the Best Researcher Award through demonstrated scholarly engagement, publication activity, and contributions to healthcare research. The combination of outcome-based studies, quality improvement initiatives, and multidisciplinary clinical investigations reflects an active commitment to advancing medical knowledge and evidence-based practice.[1]

Conclusion

Saksham Kohli has contributed to a growing body of healthcare research through studies addressing important clinical and quality-of-care challenges. The published work demonstrates involvement in contemporary medical investigations and supports the dissemination of evidence relevant to patient outcomes, healthcare systems, and disease management. These accomplishments provide a foundation for recognition within academic and professional research communities.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Saksham Kohli, Author ID 59495632900. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=59495632900
  2. Kohli, S. et al. (2026). Impact of MASLD and MASH on Clostridioides difficile Inpatient Outcomes.
    https://doi.org/10.3390/gastroent17020038
  3. Kohli, S. et al. (2026). Quantitative Assessment of Endoscope Tip Angulation Performance in New Endoscopes.
    https://doi.org/10.1055/a-2877-9452
  4. Kohli, S. et al. (2026). Trends, Predictors, and Outcomes of 30- and 90-Day Readmissions Following Alcoholic Hepatitis.
    https://doi.org/10.3390/gidisord8020027
  5. Kohli, S. et al. (2025). Octogenarians on Dialysis; Navigating Survival Amidst Struggles.
    https://doi.org/10.34172/jnp.2024.21476
  6. Top Teachers Awards. (n.d.). Best Researcher Award Recognition Program.
    topteachers.net

Zeynep Karaman Özlü | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Best Researcher Award

Zeynep Karaman Özlü
Atatürk University, Türkiye
Zeynep Karaman Özlü
Affiliation Atatürk University
Country Turkey
Scopus ID 36677390200
Documents 40
Citations 480
h-index 11
Subject Area Nursing and Health Professions
Event Top Teachers Awards
ORCID 0000-0001-8896-5461
Google Scholar 9s_Dk3kAAAAJ

Zeynep Karaman Özlü is a Turkish nursing scholar, educator, administrator, and researcher affiliated with Atatürk University. Her academic career encompasses surgical nursing, perioperative care, patient safety, intensive care nursing, healthcare quality, accreditation, and emerging applications of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Through research, teaching, leadership activities, international collaborations, and scientific service contributions, she has developed a multidisciplinary academic profile recognized within nursing and health sciences communities.[1]

Abstract

This article summarizes the academic achievements, research activities, teaching contributions, leadership responsibilities, and scholarly impact of Professor Zeynep Karaman Özlü. Her work primarily focuses on surgical nursing, perioperative care, patient safety, healthcare quality, intensive care nursing, and evidence-based clinical practice. Her scholarly portfolio demonstrates continuous engagement in education, research, international collaboration, and healthcare innovation within nursing sciences.[1]

Keywords

Surgical Nursing, Perioperative Nursing, Patient Safety, Intensive Care Nursing, Nursing Education, Healthcare Quality, Accreditation, Clinical Research Nursing, Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, Health Services Research.

Introduction

Professor Zeynep Karaman Özlü has served Atatürk University through academic, administrative, educational, and research-oriented roles. Beginning her academic progression as a research assistant and advancing to full professor, she has contributed to curriculum development, postgraduate supervision, institutional quality initiatives, accreditation processes, scientific evaluation activities, and international research networks. Her academic background includes master’s and doctoral studies in surgical nursing, forming the foundation for a sustained research career focused on improving healthcare outcomes and nursing practice.[1]

Research Profile

The research profile of Zeynep Karaman Özlü integrates clinical nursing research, healthcare quality management, patient-centered care, intensive care practice, surgical recovery, psychological adaptation, and healthcare innovation. She has participated in European COST Actions, contributed to multidisciplinary projects, reviewed national research proposals, and supported quality assurance initiatives within higher education and healthcare systems. Her research areas increasingly include digital transformation and artificial intelligence applications relevant to healthcare delivery and nursing education.[1]

Research Contributions

Research contributions include advancing perioperative nursing practice, improving postoperative patient care, validating clinical assessment instruments, investigating psychological resilience among healthcare professionals, evaluating anxiety management interventions, promoting patient safety frameworks, supporting healthcare quality accreditation, strengthening nursing education methodologies, integrating evidence-based practice into clinical environments, and encouraging responsible innovation in healthcare technologies.[1]

Publications

Selected publications demonstrate contributions to postoperative recovery, psychological adaptation, clinical measurement validation, patient well-being, and nursing assessment methodologies. These studies have addressed pain management, resilience during public health emergencies, surgical fear assessment, relaxation interventions, and sleep evaluation in clinical populations.[2][3][4][5][6]

  • Effect of music on postoperative pain and physiologic parameters of patients after open heart surgery.
  • The effect of the fear of COVID-19 on healthcare professionals’ psychological adjustment skills.
  • Validation of the Turkish version of the Surgical Fear Questionnaire.
  • Progressive muscle relaxation exercises and outcomes among patients with COVID-19.
  • Richard Campbell Sleep Scale validity and reliability study.

Research Impact

With 40 indexed documents, approximately 480 citations, and an h-index of 11, the scholarly record reflects measurable influence within nursing and health sciences literature. Research outputs have contributed to evidence-based nursing practice, clinical assessment, perioperative care improvement, psychological support strategies, and healthcare quality enhancement. Citation activity indicates continuing relevance across educational, clinical, and research settings.[1]

Award Suitability

The profile demonstrates qualifications commonly associated with academic recognition programs through sustained scholarly productivity, leadership in quality and accreditation initiatives, participation in international research collaborations, supervision and teaching across educational levels, scientific reviewing responsibilities, healthcare innovation activities, and documented research impact. These achievements collectively support consideration for recognition within research and higher education award frameworks.[1]

Conclusion

Zeynep Karaman Özlü represents an established academic contributor within nursing and health professions. Her record combines clinical research, educational leadership, quality assurance, international collaboration, and professional service. The breadth of activities documented across research, teaching, administration, and healthcare innovation illustrates a comprehensive academic career with continuing contributions to nursing science and healthcare improvement.[1]

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Zeynep Karaman Özlü, Author ID 36677390200. Scopus. https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=36677390200
  2. Özer N., Özlü Z.K., Arslan S., Günes N. (2010). Effect of music on postoperative pain and physiologic parameters of patients after open heart surgery. Pain Management Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmn.2010.05.002
  3. Secer I., Ulaş S., Karaman-Özlü Z. (2020). The effect of the fear of COVID-19 on healthcare professionals’ psychological adjustment skills: mediating role of experiential avoidance and psychological resilience. Frontiers in Psychology. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.561536
  4. Bağdigen M., Özlü Z.K. (2017). Validation of the Turkish version of the Surgical Fear Questionnaire. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jopan.2017.05.007
  5. Özlü I., Öztürk Z., Karaman Özlü Z., Tekin E., Gür A. (2021). The effects of progressive muscle relaxation exercises on the anxiety and sleep quality of patients with COVID-19: A randomized controlled study. Perspectives in Psychiatric Care. https://doi.org/10.1111/ppc.12750
  6. Özlü Z.K., Özer N. Richard Campbell Sleep Scale Validity and Reliability Study. Journal of Turkish Sleep Medicine. 10.4274/jtsm.02.008

Bahar Çiftçi | Health Professions | Editorial Board Member

Assoc Prof Dr. Bahar Çiftçi | Health Professions | Editorial Board Member

Atatürk University | Turkey

Assoc Prof Dr. Bahar Çiftçi is a distinguished nursing researcher whose scholarly contributions have significantly advanced knowledge in clinical nursing practice, psychiatric care, patient education, and nursing student development. Her research portfolio spans critical themes such as treatment adherence in chronic diseases, mental-health-related self-care agency, resilience and wellbeing among nursing students, disaster-related psychological outcomes, intercultural sensitivity, compassion competence, and innovative teaching strategies including Kahoot-based and question-answer reinforcement methods. She has also produced influential work on rational drug use in children, subcutaneous heparin administration, missed nursing care, clinical decision-making, and spirituality-related competencies, reflecting a strong commitment to evidence-based and human-centered nursing. Her studies published in journals such as Journal of Vascular Nursing, Perspectives in Psychiatric Care, Nurse Education Today, Journal of Community Psychology, American Journal of Critical Care, and others demonstrate her methodological expertise and interdisciplinary engagement. With a growing international footprint, she contributes to global nursing knowledge through collaborative, multi-centric research addressing contemporary healthcare challenges, including post-COVID psychological growth, hospital care quality, and professional attitudes during pandemics. Her scholarly impact is reflected in Google Scholar metrics with 582 total citations, an h-index of 14, and an i10-index of 19, alongside a strong citation trend. Scopus-indexed documents further validate the visibility and academic reach of her work within the global research community. As an editorial board member, she plays an active role in shaping scientific standards and supporting high-quality peer-reviewed publications. Collectively, her research advances both theoretical understanding and practical innovation in nursing, positioning her as a respected scholar whose work informs patient care, nursing education, and mental health practices across diverse healthcare settings.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Turan, G. B., Aksoy, M., & Çiftçi, B. (2019). Effect of social support on the treatment adherence of hypertension patients. Journal of Vascular Nursing, 37(1), 46–51.

  • Bahçecioğlu Turan, G., Özer, Z., & Ciftci, B. (2021). Analysis of anxiety levels and attitudes of nursing students toward the nursing profession during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Perspectives in Psychiatric Care, 57(4), 1913–1921.

  • Aras, G. N., & Çiftçi, B. (2021). Comparison of the effect of reinforcement with question-answer and Kahoot method on the success and motivation levels of nursing students: A quasi-experimental review. Nurse Education Today, Article 104930.

  • Çiftçi, B., Yıldırım, N., Altun, Ö. Ş., & Avşar, G. (2015). What level of self-care agency in mental illness? The factors affecting self-care agency and self-care agency in patients with mental illness. Archives of Psychiatric Nursing, 29(6), 372–376.

  • Yıldırım, N., Çiftçi, B., & Kaşıkçı, M. (2017). Hemşirelerin hasta eğitimi verme durumu ve etkileyen faktörlerin belirlenmesi. Atatürk İletişim Dergisi, 217–231.

Joan-Lluis Vives Corrons | Health Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Joan-Lluis Vives Corrons | Health Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

Academic Background

Prof. Joan-Lluis Vives-Corrons holds a Medical Doctor degree and is a specialist in Haematology from the University of Barcelona. He completed advanced training as a fellow at Hôpital Beaujon in Paris and as a visiting fellow at The Scripps Research Institute. He has served as a professor of Medicine at the University of Barcelona and has been deeply involved in education and mentorship in haematology throughout his career. According to Scopus and Google Scholar records, his work has been cited extensively, with over 1,467 documents citing his research, 81 documents authored, and an h-index of 21, reflecting his sustained influence in the field.

Research Focus

Prof. Joan-Lluis Vives Corrons research focuses on the study of rare and congenital anaemias, encompassing the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying red blood cell disorders. He has a strong interest in the standardization of haematology laboratory practices and in improving diagnostic approaches for haemoglobinopathies and enzymopathies. His work bridges clinical practice and translational research to advance patient care for rare anaemias.

Work Experience

Prof. Joan-Lluis Vives Corrons has held leadership roles in haematology laboratories and clinical departments, serving as head of the Haematology Laboratory and Red Cell Pathology Units at the Hospital Clinic of the University of Barcelona. He has also led the Red Cell Pathology and Haematopoietic Disorders Research Group at the Josep Carreras Institute for Leukemia Research and currently oversees the Clinical Centre for Ambulatory Medicine in Barcelona. He has coordinated large-scale networks for the diagnosis and follow-up of rare haematological disorders, contributing significantly to public health programs such as newborn screening for sickle-cell disease.

Key Contributions

Prof. Joan-Lluis Vives Corrons has pioneered the development of diagnostic methods for rare anaemias, implemented quality assessment schemes in haematology, and contributed to the standardization of automated laboratory analyzers. His research has led to the discovery of multiple novel mutations in genes responsible for red blood cell disorders, enhancing the understanding of their molecular basis. He has facilitated international collaboration through European networks for rare anaemias and supported education and training programs for haematologists and laboratory professionals.

Awards & Recognition

Recognized for his exceptional research and leadership, Prof. Vives-Corrons has been honored with the Outstanding Scientist Award for his groundbreaking contributions to the study of rare anaemias. His work is widely acknowledged for advancing clinical and laboratory haematology practice while fostering global collaborations in rare disease research.

Professional Roles & Memberships

Prof. Joan-Lluis Vives Corrons has held significant professional roles, including Secretary General of the International Society of Haematology and representative membership in the European Union Committee of Experts in Rare Diseases. He is affiliated with multiple national and international scientific societies and serves on editorial boards of leading journals in haematology. His work with ORPHANET, EURORDIS, and various standardization organizations underscores his commitment to improving rare disease diagnostics and care.

Profile

Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Vives-Corrons, J. L., et al. (2024). SARS-CoV-2 infection and anemia—A focus on RBC deformability and membrane proteomics—Integrated observational prospective study. Microorganisms.

Vives-Corrons, J. L., et al. (2023). The pyruvate kinase deficiency global longitudinal (Peak) registry: Rationale and study design. BMJ Open.

Vives-Corrons, J. L., et al. (2022). Haemoglobin Bristol-Alesha in a child with non-spherocytic severe haemolytic anaemia and marked anisochromic poikilocytosis with basophilic stippling and amorphous intracellular content. Blood Cells, Molecules and Diseases.

Vives-Corrons, J. L., et al. (2022). Concomitant hereditary spherocytosis and pyruvate kinase deficiency in a Spanish family with chronic hemolytic anemia: Contribution of laser ektacytometry to clinical diagnosis. Cells.

Vives-Corrons, J. L., et al. (2022). Red cell ektacytometry in two patients with chronic hemolytic anemia and three new α-spectrin variants. Annals of Hematology.

Impact Statement / Vision

Prof. Joan-Lluis Vives Corrons to advance the understanding and management of rare anaemias through innovative research, international collaboration, and the integration of molecular diagnostics into clinical practice. His vision emphasizes improving patient outcomes while promoting education and quality standards in haematology worldwide.

 

Réla Bodea | Medicine| Best Researcher Award