Maria Morales-Suarez-Varela | Medicine and Pharmacy | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Maria Morales-Suarez-Varela | Medicine and Pharmacy | Best Researcher Award
Full professor | University of Valencia | Spain

Prof. Dr. Maria Morales-Suárez-Varela is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in public health, preventive medicine, nutrition, and environmental epidemiology. Serving as a Full Professor at the Universitat de València, she has made outstanding contributions to advancing scientific understanding of the relationships between environmental exposures, nutrition, and population health. She holds a Doctorate and a Licentiate in Medicine and Surgery, with advanced expertise in preventive and public health sciences. As Principal Investigator of prominent research groups within the CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health and the Universitat de València, she has led numerous national and international projects funded by competitive public and private agencies. Her scholarly impact is reflected in hundreds of high-quality publications indexed in leading databases, an extensive record of citations, and a strong h-index that underscores her scientific influence. She has supervised numerous doctoral theses and has presented extensively at global conferences. Her research integrates epidemiological evidence with policy-relevant health solutions, with special focus on maternal and child health, dietary patterns, environmental risks, and population well-being. Recognized for her leadership and excellence, she has received multiple distinctions for research merit and contributes actively to scientific networks, editorial boards, and peer-review committees. Prof. Morales-Suárez-Varela exemplifies academic rigor, innovation, and dedication to public health advancement, making her a highly deserving candidate for this award.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Morales-Suárez-Varela, M., et al. (2025). Effect of the Mediterranean diet on BMI and body composition: A preliminary pre-post intervention study in pediatric overweight patients. Nutrition.

2. Morales-Suárez-Varela, M., et al. (2025). Long-term prognostic implications of type 2 diabetes mellitus in colorectal cancer patients. Colorectal Disease.

3. Morales-Suárez-Varela, M., et al. (2025). Systematic review of prenatal exposure to PM2.5 and its chemical components and their effects on neurodevelopmental outcomes in neonates.

4. Morales-Suárez-Varela, M., et al. (2025). Helminth/Protozoan coinfections in chronic fascioliasis cases in human hyperendemic areas: High risk of multiparasitism linked to transmission aspects and immunological, environmental and social factors. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease.

5. Morales-Suárez-Varela, M., et al. (2025). Analysis of demographic and health characteristics and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in pregnant women: MEDAS questionnaire. Semergen.

Prof. Dr. Maria Morales-Suárez-Varela’s research advances global understanding of how environmental, nutritional, and lifestyle factors influence public health outcomes. Her work bridges science and policy, driving innovations that promote healthier populations, sustainable healthcare practices, and evidence-based prevention strategies worldwide.

Dr. Rocco De Vitis | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Rocco De Vitis | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award 

MD at Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS Rome, Italy

Dr. Rocco De Vitis is a highly accomplished orthopedic and hand surgeon with over 20 years of clinical and research experience. He holds national qualifications as an Associate Professor in Orthopedics (MED-33) and Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine (MED-19). Dr. De Vitis has authored more than 60 peer-reviewed publications and contributed to numerous international and multicenter clinical trials. His research spans innovative surgical techniques, anatomical studies, and interdisciplinary collaborations, including work on COVID-19. He serves on the editorial boards of respected journals such as BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders and Advances in Orthopedics and is an active faculty member at international surgical congresses. He is deeply involved in medical education, mentoring residents and supervising theses, and holds key roles in research ethics and surgical innovation. With a patent to his name and experience as a journal reviewer, Dr. De Vitis exemplifies a researcher committed to advancing orthopedic science and surgical excellence.

🔹Professional Profile 

Google Scholar
Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

🏆Strengths for the Award

Dr. Rocco De Vitis presents an exceptionally strong candidacy for the Best Researcher Award. His career reflects sustained, high-level contributions to the fields of orthopedic surgery, hand surgery, and microsurgery over more than two decades. He has:

  • Participated in numerous clinical trials, including international, multicenter, and phase 2/3 studies.

  • Published more than 60 peer-reviewed scientific papers, many in indexed and impact factor journals, spanning both surgical techniques and interdisciplinary research (e.g., dermatological implications of COVID-19).

  • Demonstrated a pioneering spirit through original anatomical research designs and responsible roles in several cadaveric and biomechanical studies.

  • Obtained national professorial qualifications (SSD MED-33 and MED-19), a testament to his academic and research excellence.

  • Served as a member of editorial boards for internationally recognized journals, such as BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders and Advances in Orthopedics.

  • Been invited to over 20 national and international congresses as a speaker, and served as faculty at high-level international conferences (e.g., IFSSH).

  • Held roles in research ethics, surgical innovation, and curriculum development, training residents and supervising master’s and specialization theses.

This combination of academic leadership, innovation in surgical practice, commitment to research dissemination, and international collaboration places Dr. De Vitis in the top tier of clinician-researchers.

🎓 Education

Dr. Rocco De Vitis obtained his medical degree from the University of Rome “La Sapienza,” followed by specialization in Orthopedics and Traumatology. He pursued further advanced training in hand surgery and microsurgery, which laid the foundation for his focus on upper limb pathologies. Committed to continuous education, Dr. De Vitis earned multiple national certifications, including the qualification to serve as Associate Professor in both SSD MED-33 (Orthopedic Surgery) and MED-19 (Rehabilitation Medicine). He has actively participated in numerous national and international workshops, courses, and fellowships to refine his surgical skills and research methodology. Additionally, he has contributed to training programs and thesis supervision for postgraduate students, strengthening his academic influence. His academic journey reflects a commitment to clinical excellence, teaching, and scientific inquiry, forming a strong foundation for his career in both patient care and research. Dr. De Vitis combines clinical expertise with a robust academic background in surgical science.

💼 Experience

Dr. Rocco De Vitis has accumulated over 20 years of clinical and academic experience, focusing on orthopedic surgery, hand surgery, and microsurgery. He has served in various public and private hospitals in Italy, gaining hands-on expertise in both elective and trauma-related orthopedic procedures. Dr. De Vitis has led and participated in multidisciplinary teams addressing complex hand and upper limb conditions, employing both conservative and surgical approaches. His responsibilities have extended to teaching roles in medical schools, where he has supervised residents and postgraduate students. He has also coordinated anatomical and biomechanical research studies using cadaver models, contributing to surgical advancements and protocol development. Internationally, he has served as faculty at congresses and surgical training events. His work is marked by a strong emphasis on innovation, evidence-based care, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Dr. De Vitis’s career reflects a balance between clinical excellence, academic leadership, and ongoing contributions to orthopedic research and education.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Rocco De Vitis has received multiple honors that highlight his excellence in orthopedic surgery and academic research. He has obtained the prestigious national qualification as Associate Professor in both Orthopedic Surgery (MED-33) and Rehabilitation Medicine (MED-19)—a recognition of his academic and clinical impact. His contributions to surgical innovation have been acknowledged at national and international conferences, where he has frequently been invited as a speaker and faculty member. Dr. De Vitis is a recognized member of leading scientific and professional societies, including SIGASCOT and IFSSH, which further affirms his standing in the orthopedic community. His research and publications have been cited in major journals, and he has served as a peer reviewer for top-tier orthopedic and medical science journals. In addition to his patent on an original surgical device, he has received recognition for his roles in clinical trials, medical education, and contributions to ethical research practice.

🔬Research Focus on Medicine and Dentistry

Dr. Rocco De Vitis’s research focuses on orthopedic surgery, with a specialized interest in hand, wrist, and elbow conditions. His work explores surgical techniques, anatomical modeling, prosthetics, and tissue repair strategies, often using cadaveric and biomechanical studies to refine approaches. He has contributed significantly to the clinical management of carpal instability, tendon injuries, and fracture treatment. Dr. De Vitis has also engaged in interdisciplinary research, including dermatological manifestations of COVID-19 and rehabilitation protocols. He has participated in international multicenter clinical trials, contributing to the development of new surgical standards and devices. His research promotes evidence-based practices, with over 60 peer-reviewed publications and presentations at global scientific congresses. He is involved in research ethics and innovation, often proposing new protocols and surgical improvements. By integrating clinical observations with academic rigor, Dr. De Vitis aims to enhance patient outcomes and shape the future of orthopedic and microsurgical treatment.

📚 Publications Top Notes

  • Efficacy of marrow-stimulating technique in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a prospective randomized study

    • Authors: G. Milano, M.F. Saccomanno, S. Careri, G. Taccardo, R. De Vitis, …

    • Year: 2013

    • Citations: 156

  • Skin manifestations in COVID‐19 patients, state of the art. A systematic review

    • Authors: A. Perna, M. Passiatore, A. Massaro, A. Terrinoni, L. Bianchi, V. Cilli, M. D’Orio, …

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 41

  • COVID-19 contagion and contamination through hands of trauma patients: what risks and what precautions?

    • Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, L. Proietti, G. Taccardo

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 37

  • Ultra-micronized palmitoylethanolamide effects on sleep-wake rhythm and neuropathic pain in carpal tunnel syndrome

    • Authors: M. Evangelista, V. Cilli, R. De Vitis, A. Militerno, F. Fanfani

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 37

  • The use of alfa-lipoic acid-R (ALA-R) in patients with mild-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome

    • Authors: M. Passiatore, A. Perna, R. De Vitis, G. Taccardo

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 34

  • Modified Matti-Russe technique using a “butterfly bone graft” for scaphoid non-union

    • Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, A. Tulli, A. Pagliei, G. Taccardo

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 33

  • Extraphyseal distal radius fracture in children: cast vs Epibloc system vs K-wire pinning

    • Authors: M. Passiatore, R. De Vitis, A. Perna, M. D’Orio, V. Cilli, G. Taccardo

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 26

  • Italian version of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ): validation study

    • Authors: M. Passiatore, R. De Vitis, V. Cilli, G. Milano, M.F. Saccomanno, C. Cotroneo, …

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 24

  • Intramedullary nailing for treatment of forearm non-union: a case series

    • Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, V. Cilli, J. Maffeis, G. Milano, G. Taccardo

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 24

  • Shape memory staple + PRP vs staple alone for scaphoid nonunion

    • Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, G.F. Cinci, G. Taccardo

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 23

  • Surgical treatment of trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis

    • Authors: G. Taccardo, R. De Vitis, G. Parrone, G. Milano, F. Fanfani

    • Year: 2013

    • Citations: 21

  • Secondary wrist arthritis and capitate pyrocarbon resurfacing (RCPI)

    • Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, V. Cilli, E. Pamelin, C. Velluto, I. Ceravolo, …

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 18

  • Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and early lower extremity arterial disease

    • Authors: L. Santoro, P.M. Ferraro, A. Nesci, A. D’Alessandro, N. Macerola, F. Forni, …

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 18

  • Seven-year clinical outcomes after collagenase injection for Dupuytren’s disease

    • Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, S. Careri, V. Cilli, G. Taccardo

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 18

  • Use of PRP in fixation of subacute proximal pole scaphoid fractures

    • Authors: R. De Vitis, M. Passiatore, A. Perna, V. Cilli, I. Ponzo, G. Taccardo

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: 9

  • Triangular osteosynthesis and lumbopelvic fixation in posterior pelvic ring injuries: a systematic review

    • Authors: G. Rovere, D. De Mauro, A. Smakaj, G. Sassara, R. De Vitis, P. Farsetti, …

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 8

🎯 Conclusion

Dr. Rocco De Vitis stands out as a dynamic force in modern orthopedic surgery and clinical research. With decades of experience, his multidisciplinary expertise bridges surgical precision with academic depth, making him a leader in both patient care and scientific discovery. His research, notably in hand surgery, orthopedic trauma, and innovative treatments such as platelet-rich plasma and nerve repair, reflects a commitment to advancing evidence-based medicine. Dr. De Vitis’s contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic highlight his responsiveness to global health challenges. His work has not only shaped clinical practices but also earned substantial academic recognition, as seen through high citation rates and prestigious journal publications. Equally dedicated to mentorship and teaching, he actively shapes future generations of orthopedic specialists. Through continuous innovation, ethical integrity, and patient-centered care, Dr. De Vitis has built a legacy that bridges tradition and technological progress in musculoskeletal medicine. His impact is both lasting and inspiring.

Yong Su Lim | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yong Su Lim | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Gachon University College of Medicine, South Korea

Dr. Yong-Su Lim is a tenured professor of Emergency Medicine at Gachon University College of Medicine, specializing in critical care and toxicology. Born in South Korea on January 30, 1970, he is married with children. He currently holds multiple key leadership roles, including Vice Chairman of the ASK Simulation Center and Director of the Telemedicine Team at Gachon University Gil Medical Center. Over his extensive career, Dr. Lim has been a prominent figure in South Korean emergency medicine, recognized for his expertise in clinical practice, research, and education. He has earned the respect of his peers through his unwavering commitment to advancing the field, focusing on both patient care and medical education. He is dedicated to integrating advanced healthcare technologies, including telemedicine, to improve the quality and accessibility of emergency medical services in South Korea.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Yong-Su Lim’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to both medical practice and research. He obtained his M.D. from Yeungnam University College of Medicine in 1994, a foundational achievement in his career. His passion for emergency medicine and clinical excellence led him to pursue further studies at Kyung Hee University, where he earned both a Master’s degree (2003) and a Ph.D. (2007). These advanced degrees have equipped him with the necessary skills to conduct meaningful research in emergency medicine, critical care, and toxicology. Dr. Lim’s educational background is complemented by numerous fellowships, including specialized training at Seoul National University Hospital and the University of Hawaii’s John A. Burns School of Medicine, allowing him to expand his expertise in telemedicine and medical simulation.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lim’s professional career spans more than two decades in various clinical and academic roles. After completing his internship at Yeungnam University Medical Center, he served as a resident at Gachon University Gil Medical Center, eventually progressing to become an assistant professor in 2003. Over the years, he advanced through the academic ranks, becoming an associate professor and later a full professor, while also heading the emergency room and intensive care unit. His leadership in clinical care is complemented by his involvement in medical simulation and telemedicine, areas in which he has pioneered advancements. As the director of the U-Healthcare Center, Dr. Lim has actively worked to integrate telemedicine technologies into clinical practice, aiming to revolutionize patient care and access to medical expertise in emergency situations.

Research Interests

Dr. Lim’s research interests are centered on the intersection of emergency medicine, critical care, toxicology, and telemedicine. His work explores various aspects of patient management in acute care settings, focusing on improving diagnostic techniques and therapeutic strategies. His contributions to the field include studies on electrical injuries, poisoning, and head trauma, as well as the clinical analysis of emergency medical systems. Dr. Lim has also been instrumental in advancing telemedicine, aiming to enhance the delivery of emergency medical care through remote consultations. His research has resulted in numerous publications in respected journals, underscoring his commitment to evidence-based practice and his role in shaping the future of emergency medical services.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Yong-Su Lim has received several accolades in recognition of his contributions to the field of emergency medicine and medical education. He has been honored for his leadership in medical simulation and his pioneering work in telemedicine, which has contributed to improving healthcare accessibility. In addition to his academic awards, he has been recognized by his peers for his active role in various medical societies, including the Korean Society of Emergency Medicine, where he has served in leadership positions. His commitment to clinical excellence and research has earned him the respect of both national and international colleagues, further cementing his position as a distinguished figure in the medical community.

Conclusion

Overall, Yong-Su Lim is certainly a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. He has made significant contributions to the field of emergency medicine and critical care, particularly in the areas of telemedicine, clinical procedures, and toxicology. His leadership roles and extensive publication record demonstrate his commitment and influence in the medical research community. To further strengthen his candidacy, emphasizing the impact and novelty of his research in clinical practice and expanding his collaborations across disciplines would be beneficial.

Publications Top Noted

Author(s):
Jang, Jae-ho; Cho, Jinseong; Lim, Yong-Su; Choi, Jae-yeon; Yang, Hyukjun

Year: 2022

Title: Disaster Response to a Mass Casualty Incident in a Hospital Fire by Regional Disaster Medical Assistance Team: Characteristics of Hospital Fire

Journal: Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness

Citations: 7 citations