Antonion Zapatero Gaviria | Biomedical Sciences | Best Paper Award

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Prof. Dr. Antonion Zapatero Gaviria | Biomedical Sciences | Best Paper Award

Jefe de Servicio de Medicina Interna | Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada | Spain

Dr. Antonio Zapatero-Gaviria is a distinguished Spanish physician, academic, and public health leader recognized for his outstanding contributions to internal medicine, clinical management, and healthcare policy. He currently serves as Professor of Medicine at the Universidad Rey Juan Carlos and has held pivotal leadership positions within the Spanish healthcare system, including Vice-Minister of Public Health and COVID-19 Response for the Community of Madrid, and Director of the IFEMA Field Hospital during the COVID-19 emergency in 2020. With over four decades of medical and academic experience, Dr. Zapatero-Gaviria has made significant contributions to the advancement of internal medicine and clinical governance. He has authored or co-authored more than 148 scientific publications, garnering over 2,200 citations and achieving an h-index of 27 according to Scopus. His research spans a wide range of topics including infectious diseases, COVID-19 pathophysiology, diabetes care, and health systems management, reflecting both national and international collaborations. A former President of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI) and President of the Federation of Spanish Medical Scientific Associations (FACME), he has played a decisive role in shaping medical standards, professional development, and evidence-based healthcare in Spain. His academic excellence is reflected in three research merit recognitions by ANECA and his induction as a full member of the Real Academia Europea de Doctores in 2024. Dr. Zapatero-Gaviria’s work integrates scientific rigor, leadership in health crisis management, and commitment to the modernization of medical care. His influence extends beyond academia, embodying a model of physician-leadership that bridges clinical excellence, policy innovation, and public service for the betterment of healthcare systems and patient outcomes.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  1. Pairo-Castineira, E., Rawlik, K., Bretherick, A. D., Qi, T., Wu, Y., Nassiri, I., … Zapatero-Gaviria, A. (2023). GWAS and meta-analysis identifies 49 genetic variants underlying critical COVID-19. Nature, 617(7962), 764–768. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06034-3 — 183 citations

  2. Barba, R., Losa, J. E., Velasco, M., Guijarro, C., de Casasola, G. G., & Zapatero, A. (2006). Mortality among adult patients admitted to the hospital on weekends. European Journal of Internal Medicine, 17(5), 322–324. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejim.2006.03.008 — 163 citations

  3. Sanchez-Vazquez, R., Guío-Carrión, A., Zapatero-Gaviria, A., Martínez, P., … (2021). Shorter telomere lengths in patients with severe COVID-19 disease. Aging (Albany NY), 13(1), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.18632/aging.202476 — 122 citations

  4. Zapatero, A., Barba, R., Ruiz, J., Losa, J. E., Plaza, S., Canora, J., & Marco, J. (2013). Malnutrition and obesity: influence in mortality and readmissions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 26(Suppl. 1), 16–22. https://doi.org/10.1111/jhn.12044 — 116 citations

  5. Marco, J., Barba, R., Zapatero, A., Matía, P., Plaza, S., Losa, J. E., Canora, J., … (2011). Prevalence of the notification of malnutrition in the departments of internal medicine and its prognostic implications. Clinical Nutrition, 30(4), 450–454. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2011.01.008 — 103 citations

Taija Juutinen Finni | Biomedical Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Taija Juutinen Finni | Biomedical Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Professor | University of Jyväskylä | Finland

Dr. Taija Juutinen Finni is a distinguished Professor of Kinesiology at the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Finland, and Vice Dean for Education. With a Ph.D. in Biomechanics (2001) and a Title of Docent in Exercise Physiology (2006), she has built a remarkable academic and research career at the intersection of biomechanics, exercise physiology, and rehabilitation sciences. Her academic training from the University of Jyväskylä, complemented by pedagogical and leadership qualifications, reflects her commitment to education and scientific excellence. Professionally, she has held several pivotal roles, including postdoctoral research at UCLA and multiple research and teaching positions in Finland, before her full professorship in 2010. Dr. Juutinen’s research focuses on muscle-tendon mechanics, Achilles tendon function, physical activity patterns, and rehabilitation in neurological and musculoskeletal disorders, supported by major national and international funding bodies such as the Research Council of Finland and the Ministry of Education and Culture. She has successfully led numerous high-impact projects (e.g., ACHILLES, EXECP, UNRESAT, CHIPASE) and supervised over 18 Ph.D. candidates and 80 M.Sc. theses. Her extensive publication record of 178 scientific papers and two patents underscores her global impact in biomechanics and sports medicine. A sought-after keynote speaker, she has contributed to major international congresses, served on editorial boards of leading journals, and evaluated professorships and grants across Europe and North America. Her awards include the First Class Knight’s Cross of the Order of the White Rose of Finland (2023) and multiple recognitions from international biomechanical societies. A fellow of both the International Society of Biomechanics and the European College of Sport Science, she continues to advance understanding of tendon structure, physical activity, and human performance through cutting-edge interdisciplinary research. Citations: 5,711; documents: 183; h-index: 44.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  1. Juutinen, T., et al. (2025). The relationship between triceps surae muscle–tendon morphology and shear modulus across passive ankle range of motion in cerebral palsy. Journal of Biomechanics, 2025. (Open Access).

  2. Juutinen, T., et al. (2025). Medial gastrocnemius muscle and aponeurosis shear wave velocity and morphological changes after Achilles tendon rupture: A 1-year follow-up study. Journal of Biomechanics, 2025. (Open Access).

  3. Juutinen, T., et al. (2025). Physical activity in children and young adults with cerebral palsy: Results from a three-month exercise intervention. European Journal of Sport Science, 2025. (Open Access).

  4. Juutinen, T., et al. (2025). Acute effects of isometric plantarflexion exercise on Achilles tendon non-uniform displacement. Journal of Biomechanics, 2025. (Open Access). Citations: 1

  5. Juutinen, T., et al. (2025). A novel method to assess subject-specific architecture of the Achilles tendon in vivo in humans. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 2025. (Open Access). Citations: 2

Shoubhik Chakraborty | Biomedical Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shoubhik Chakraborty | Biomedical Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Pediatric Optometrist | Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences | India

Mr. Shoubhik Chakraborty is a dedicated Clinical Optometrist specializing in Pediatric Optometry, Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI), Binocular Vision, Neuro-Optometry, and Behavioral Optometry. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Optometry and Vision Science (2017–2021) from NSHM College of Management and Technology, MAKAUT University, Durgapur, followed by a Fellowship in Pediatric Optometry, Binocular Vision, and Cerebral Visual Impairment (2021–2023) at Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore. His academic foundation was built at Karaiya High School and Sagardighi Thermal Power School, affiliated with WBBSE and WBCHSE respectively. Professionally, Mr. Chakraborty began his clinical training at MGM Eye Institute, Raipur, where he gained hands-on experience in hospital-based vision care. He later worked as a Cerebral Visual Impairment Specialist at AIIMS, Jodhpur, demonstrating excellence in managing pediatric and neuro-optometric cases, and is currently serving as a Pediatric Optometrist at KIMS Hospital, Bhubaneswar, where he continues to advance patient outcomes through customized vision therapy and diagnostic precision. His research interests encompass neuro-visual rehabilitation, visual neuroplasticity, binocular dysfunctions, amblyopia management, and pediatric refractive errors. He has developed strong research skills in clinical data interpretation, vision assessment methodologies, and evidence-based optometric intervention design. Mr. Chakraborty has contributed scholarly papers, including publications in Optometry and Visual Performance, and presented his findings at prestigious forums such as the Asia Pacific Optometry Summit (2018), Bengal Optometry Conference (2020), and Karnataka Optometry Conference (2022). Recognized for his leadership, teamwork, and clinical innovation, he exemplifies a balance of academic rigor and compassionate care. His achievements reflect a commitment to advancing pediatric visual science through both clinical excellence and research innovation. With his growing expertise, professional dedication, and vision for future advancements, Mr. Shoubhik Chakraborty is poised to emerge as a leading figure in neuro-visual and pediatric optometry research and practice in India and beyond.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID  | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  1. Chakraborty, S., Sarbajna, P., Vinekar, A., & Shetty, B. (2024). Outcomes of vision therapy among children with cerebral visual impairment: A retrospective study. Optometry and Visual Performance, 12 (1).

  2. Chakraborty, S., & Parida, S. (2025). Effect of vision therapy on cerebral visual impairment: Insights from three pediatric cases. Advances in Ophthalmology and Visual System (AOVS), 15 (2).

  3. Chakraborty, S. D., & Hajira, R. (2025). Recovering vision and binocularity in a presbyopic patient with amblyopia. Vision Development and Rehabilitation (VDR), 11 (1), 48.

  4. Chakraborty, S., Parida, S., Mohanty, S. K., Das, M., Dash, S., & Mohanty, S. (2025). Prevalence of accommodative insufficiency in children with normal accommodative-convergence/accommodation ratio and its association with refractive error: A cross-sectional study. Cureus, 17 (2).

  5. Chakraborty, S., Parida, S., & Mohanty, S. K. (2025). Effect of vision therapy on cerebral visual impairment: Insights from three pediatric cases. Advances in Ophthalmology and Visual System, 15 (2), 82–85.

Milo Frattini | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Milo Frattini | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Head of Biologists, quality and research of ICP at ICP EOC, Switzerland.

Dr. Milo Frattini is a distinguished molecular pathologist with over two decades of experience in translational cancer research. He currently serves as the Head of the Laboratory of Molecular Pathology at the Institute of Pathology, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, in Locarno, Switzerland. An Italian national, Dr. Frattini completed his early studies in Milan and went on to obtain a Ph.D. in Experimental Medicine and Oncology from the University of Insubria. His scientific journey reflects a strong commitment to oncology, molecular diagnostics, and quality assurance in clinical pathology. Dr. Frattini has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and several book chapters, and he plays a prominent role in editorial boards, including BMC Cancer and the Journal of Clinical Medicine. He is also a member of key professional societies such as the Swiss Society of Pathology and SAKK groups for gastrointestinal and lung cancer. His research significantly contributes to precision medicine and cancer care.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Sutability For Best Researcher Award – Dr. Milo Frattini

Dr. Milo Frattini is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his extensive contributions to molecular oncology, translational cancer research, and diagnostic innovation. With over 20 years of impactful research, he has established himself as a scientific leader in integrating molecular diagnostics into routine cancer care. His sustained publication record (100+ peer-reviewed papers), leadership in clinical laboratory management, editorial contributions, and collaborative role in national cancer groups position him as a cornerstone of precision oncology in Switzerland and beyond.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Milo Frattini’s academic foundation began at the Scientific Lyceum of Milan, where he received a strong grounding in science. He pursued his undergraduate degree in Biology at the Università degli Studi of Milan, graduating in 1998 with the highest distinction (110/110 cum laude). His thesis investigated calcium-dependent protein kinases in rice, reflecting his early interest in molecular biology. Building upon this foundation, Dr. Frattini later transitioned his focus toward human health and cancer research. In 2014, he earned a Ph.D. in Experimental Medicine and Oncology from the University of Insubria in Varese, Italy. His doctoral thesis explored the molecular characteristics of small bowel adenocarcinoma, aiming to identify novel therapeutic targets. His educational trajectory demonstrates a unique evolution from plant molecular biology to clinical oncology, establishing the multidisciplinary expertise that underpins his current contributions to molecular pathology and precision oncology.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Frattini’s professional journey began in 1999 as a Research Fellow at the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche in Milan, where he studied calcium-dependent protein kinases. From 2000 to 2005, he expanded his expertise in cancer biology as a Research Fellow at the Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori in Milan, focusing on experimental molecular pathology. Since 2005, he has been leading the Laboratory of Molecular Pathology at the Institute of Pathology in Locarno, Switzerland. In this role, he oversees advanced molecular diagnostic workflows, contributing directly to clinical decision-making. Since 2008, he has also managed the institute’s quality control systems, ensuring diagnostic accuracy and compliance with international standards. With extensive laboratory leadership and hands-on clinical experience, Dr. Frattini plays a key role in integrating molecular diagnostics into routine cancer care. His dual expertise in laboratory science and clinical pathology places him at the forefront of translational oncology research in Switzerland.

📈 Professional Development

Dr. Frattini has actively pursued professional development through editorial leadership, society memberships, and quality assurance roles. From 2010 to 2016, he served as Associate Editor of BMC Cancer, a prominent oncology journal. Since 2021, he has continued his editorial service with the Journal of Clinical Medicine, helping to guide scientific discourse in clinical research. He is a dedicated member of the Swiss Society of Pathology and the Swiss Group for Molecular Pathology, contributing to national standards in molecular diagnostics. Additionally, he participates in the SAKK Gastrointestinal and Lung Cancer Groups, which are instrumental in shaping Swiss clinical cancer trials. Dr. Frattini also holds the role of Head of Quality Control at his institute, ensuring laboratory processes meet stringent clinical and regulatory criteria. These roles demonstrate his commitment not only to research excellence but also to the development of best practices in molecular pathology, professional collaboration, and clinical innovation.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Frattini’s research focuses on the molecular characterization of solid tumors, with a particular emphasis on gastrointestinal and pulmonary cancers. His work aims to uncover the genomic and epigenetic alterations that drive tumor progression and treatment resistance. By integrating molecular profiling into diagnostic workflows, his research supports the personalization of cancer therapy. His Ph.D. work on small bowel adenocarcinoma—a rare and under-researched cancer—demonstrates his commitment to uncovering novel targets in hard-to-treat malignancies. He is also involved in studying molecular markers that predict patient response to targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Through collaborations with the SAKK groups, he contributes to clinical trial development and biomarker validation in real-world oncology settings. His translational research serves as a bridge between laboratory discoveries and bedside applications, significantly enhancing diagnostic precision and treatment outcomes in cancer care.

🧠 Research Skills

Dr. Frattini possesses a comprehensive skill set that spans molecular diagnostics, biomarker discovery, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and translational oncology. He is proficient in applying molecular biology techniques—such as PCR, DNA sequencing, and FISH—to clinical pathology. His leadership of a molecular pathology laboratory involves the integration of high-throughput genomic analysis with traditional histopathology, optimizing tumor profiling for patient-specific treatments. He has experience in validating diagnostic assays for clinical use, ensuring both analytical sensitivity and specificity. His research also includes skillful design and interpretation of retrospective and prospective molecular studies, which inform therapeutic decisions in gastrointestinal and lung cancers. Additionally, his editorial and review work reflect advanced skills in scientific evaluation, literature synthesis, and methodological rigor. Dr. Frattini’s ability to combine technical expertise, clinical understanding, and quality control makes him an asset to the fields of precision medicine and oncology diagnostics.

🏆 Awards and Honors

While specific named awards are not listed in the CV, Dr. Milo Frattini’s career reflects numerous professional honors and responsibilities that underline his recognition in the scientific community. His long-standing editorial roles with BMC Cancer and Journal of Clinical Medicine indicate a high level of peer respect and scientific credibility. Being appointed as Head of both the Molecular Pathology Laboratory and Quality Control Division at the Institute of Pathology in Locarno is a significant institutional acknowledgment of his leadership and expertise. Furthermore, his membership in elite professional bodies such as the Swiss Group for Molecular Pathology, the Swiss Society of Pathology, and SAKK oncology groups points to his continued professional trust and influence. These roles, though not formal awards, collectively highlight Dr. Frattini’s impact, reliability, and sustained excellence in cancer research and molecular diagnostics.

Publication Top Notes

1. Neo‑RAS Wild Type or RAS Conversion in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Narrative Review

Citation: 2

Pesola, G., Epistolio, S., Cefalì, M., Trevisi, E., De Dosso, S., & Frattini, M. (2024). Neo‑RAS Wild Type or RAS Conversion in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Narrative Review. Cancers, 16(23), 3923. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16233923 MDPIMDPIResearchGate

Summary:
This narrative review outlines the phenomenon of neo‑RAS wild‑type cancer, in which metastatic colorectal tumors originally harboring RAS mutations convert to wild‑type status during or after chemotherapy. The proposed mechanisms include selective depletion of RAS‑mutant clones and expansion of pre‑existing RAS wild‑type clones. The clinical implications concern eligibility for anti‑EGFR therapies in converted patients, with potential survival benefits. The review emphasizes the need for liquid biopsy monitoring, improved detection techniques, and further validation of outcomes such as progression‑free and overall survival Nature+7PubMed+7ResearchGate+7.

2. Biomarker Characterization in Endometrial Cancer in Europe: First Survey Data Analysis from 69 Pathological Academic and Hospital Labs

Citation: 6

Santoro, A., Bragantini, E., Castiglione, F., et al. (2024). Biomarker characterization in endometrial cancer in Europe: first survey data analysis from 69 pathological academic and hospital labs. Pathologica, 116(1), 32–45. https://doi.org/10.32074/1591‑951X‑926 PubMedPMC

Summary:
This multicentric observational study surveyed 69 European pathology labs (academic and hospital‐based) across Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and the UK regarding practices in molecular biomarker testing for endometrial cancer. It reports variability in the routine use of immunohistochemistry (e.g., MMR, p53) and molecular testing (such as POLE), highlighting heterogeneity in adoption. Barriers such as resource limitations and lack of standardization were noted, indicating a need for European‐wide guidelines and more uniform workflows PubliRES+5PMC+5ResearchGate+5.

3. Clinical Relevance and Interplay between miRNAs in Influencing Glioblastoma Multiforme Prognosis

Citation: 4

Clinical relevance and interplay between miRNAs in influencing glioblastoma multiforme prognosis (2025). CMBL (review article). MDPIPubMedMDPI

Summary:
This recent narrative/review article discusses how specific microRNAs modulate gene networks influential in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) progression and patient prognosis. It stresses GBM’s dismal median survival (~12–15 months) and explores key miRNAs such as miR‑9 (oncogenic, associated with chemoresistance and poor survival), miR‑221/222 (promoting proliferation, angiogenesis), and tumor-suppressive miR‑181a/b. Emerging evidence around circulating miR‑29a, miR‑106a, and miR‑200a as prognostic markers is also highlighted. The article proposes miRNA profiles as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in GBM management Nature.

4. Antiandrogens as Therapies for COVID‑19: A Systematic Review

Citation: 3

(2023). Antiandrogens as Therapies for COVID‑19: A Systematic Review. Included original studies through August 2023. ResearchGatePMC

Summary:
This systematic review (covering March 2020 to August 2023) evaluates the evidence for antiandrogenic therapies—including androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT), 5‑alpha-reductase inhibitors, and antiandrogens like bicalutamide, enzalutamide, and proxalutamide—in improving COVID‑19 outcomes. Of 31 studies screened, results were mixed: proxalutamide showed potential in accelerating viral clearance and reducing hospitalizations in benign severity cases, but large-scale randomized data are lacking. Conversely, trials of enzalutamide and bicalutamide failed to show therapeutic benefit and raised safety signals—–bicalutamide is associated with increased mortality, particularly cardiovascular risk—suggesting antiandrogens are not broadly effective as COVID‑19 treatments ScienceDirect+4ResearchGate+4PMC+4.

🏁 Conclusion:

Dr. Milo Frattini exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher—scientific excellence, translational impact, clinical relevance, and leadership. His contributions significantly advance molecular pathology and personalized cancer treatment. In the absence of formal international awards, his sustained academic, clinical, and editorial responsibilities clearly reflect peer recognition and influence. He is highly suitable and strongly recommended for the Best Researcher Award.