Caroline Hoemann | Chronic Disease | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Caroline Hoemann | Chronic Disease | Best Researcher Award

Professor at George Mason University, United States

Dr. Caroline D. Hoemann is a Full Professor of Bioengineering at George Mason University, renowned for her groundbreaking work in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. With a career spanning over three decades, she has made significant contributions to cartilage repair, biomaterials, and chronic inflammatory diseases. Dr. Hoemann co-invented BST-CarGel®, a chitosan-based biomaterial for cartilage repair, which has been successfully translated to clinical use. She is also a co-founder of ChitogenX, a biotech company focused on innovative medical solutions. Her research explores the intersection of inflammation, tissue regeneration, and advanced imaging techniques. Recognized globally, she has received numerous awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Cartilage Repair Society. Dr. Hoemann’s work bridges academia and industry, fostering collaborations that drive innovation in biomedical engineering.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Education 🎓

Dr. Hoemann holds a B.A. in Chemistry and Biochemistry from the University of California, San Diego (1983), an M.Sc. in Applied Biology from MIT (1987), and a Ph.D. in Toxicology from MIT (1992). She completed postdoctoral training in Molecular Cell Biology at INSERM U309, Grenoble, France (1993), and the Friedrich-Miescher Institute, Basel, Switzerland (1994). Her academic foundation in chemistry, biology, and toxicology, combined with advanced training in molecular cell biology, has equipped her with a multidisciplinary approach to biomedical research.

Experience  💼

Dr. Hoemann has held prestigious positions, including Full Professor at George Mason University (2017–present) and École Polytechnique de Montréal (2013–2018). She served as Research Director at BioSyntech Ltd. (1998–2002) and Senior Scientist at IRCM, Montreal (1995–1997). She co-founded ChitogenX and has been a scientific advisor to multiple biotech firms. Her expertise spans biomaterials, cartilage repair, and chronic inflammation. Dr. Hoemann has also contributed to grant review panels for NIH and CIHR, and she mentors the next generation of scientists through her editorial roles and advisory board memberships.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Hoemann’s accolades include the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Cartilage Repair Society (2023) and recognition as one of the world’s top 2% scientists in Orthopaedics/Biomedical Engineering by Stanford University (2020). She has received multiple FRQ-S Career Awards and served on NIH and CIHR grant review panels. Her editorial contributions to journals like Osteoarthritis & Cartilage Open and Cartilage highlight her leadership in the field. Dr. Hoemann’s patents, including the chitosan-based cartilage repair technology, have been widely cited, underscoring her impact on translational research.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Hoemann’s research focuses on understanding and harnessing inflammatory responses to promote tissue regeneration. Her work spans cartilage repair, biomaterials, and chronic inflammatory diseases like osteoarthritis and atherosclerosis. She pioneered chitosan-based biomaterials, such as BST-CarGel®, for cartilage repair, now used clinically. Her lab investigates how chronic inflammation leads to disease progression and explores advanced imaging techniques, like high-frequency ultrasound, to detect tissue remodeling. Collaborations with statisticians, clinicians, and engineers have led to discoveries in neutrophil behavior and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Dr. Hoemann’s research bridges fundamental science and clinical applications, aiming to develop innovative therapies for tissue repair and chronic disease management.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. Charan A, Chitnis PV, Hoemann CD. Optimization of High-Frequency Ultrasound imaging to detect incremental changes in mineral content at the cartilage-bone interface ex vivo. Biomimetics (MDPI), in press.
  2. Leonard J, Kepplinger D, Espina V, Gillevet P, Ke Y; Birukov KG, Doctor A, Hoemann CD. Whole blood coagulation induces clot neutrophils to adopt a myeloid-derived suppressor cell signature and shed sLox-1. Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 2024: 22(4):1031-1045.
  3. Hoemann, C.D. Rodriguez Gonzáles J, Guzmán-Morales J, Chen G, Jalili Dil E, Favis B. Chitosan coatings with distinct innate immune bioactivities differentially stimulate angiogenesis, osteogenesis, and chondrogenesis in poly-caprolactone scaffolds with controlled interconnecting pore size. Bioactive Materials, 2022;10:430-442.
  4. Fong D, Grégoire-Gélinas P, Cheng AP, Mezheritsky T, Lavertu M, Sato S and Hoemann CD. Structurally distinct chitosans induce lysosomal rupture to promote either a type 1 IFN response or activate the inflammasome in macrophages. Biomaterials, 2017:129:127-38.

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Caroline D. Hoemann is a trailblazer in bioengineering, whose work has transformed cartilage repair and advanced our understanding of inflammation in tissue regeneration. Her innovative chitosan-based biomaterials, impactful research, and leadership in the scientific community have earned her global recognition. Through her dedication to translational research and mentorship, she continues to inspire and shape the future of biomedical engineering.

 

Fazel Mohammadi-Moghadam | Environmental Health Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr Fazel Mohammadi-Moghadam | Environmental Health Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Dr. Fazel Mohammadi Moghadam is an esteemed academic at Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in Iran. With a strong commitment to advancing public health and environmental safety, he has significantly contributed to research in environmental health engineering. His work emphasizes the intersection of environmental factors and health outcomes, making him a leading voice in this vital field.

Profile

SCOPUS

ORCID

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Publication Record: Dr. Mohammadi Moghadam has authored 57 documents with 839 citations, reflecting his impactful contributions to the field of environmental health engineering. His diverse research topics showcase his versatility and depth of knowledge.
  2. Interdisciplinary Approach: His collaborations across various disciplines enhance the relevance and application of his research findings. This interdisciplinary approach is vital for addressing complex environmental health challenges.
  3. Innovative Research Focus: His studies on the health risks associated with environmental contaminants, including heavy metals and pollutants, contribute significantly to public health policy and practices. This innovative focus aligns with global health priorities.
  4. Recognition and Influence: With a notable h-index of 14, Dr. Mohammadi Moghadam’s work is well-respected and cited in academic circles, demonstrating his influence in the field.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Increased Public Engagement: While his academic contributions are substantial, enhancing outreach efforts to communicate research findings to the public and policymakers could amplify the impact of his work.
  2. Grant Acquisition: Pursuing more competitive research grants could support larger-scale studies and further innovative research initiatives.
  3. Mentorship Opportunities: Actively mentoring younger researchers and students can foster the next generation of environmental health scientists, enhancing his legacy in the field.

Education

Dr. Mohammadi Moghadam holds a PhD in Environmental Health Engineering, where he focused on the impact of environmental contaminants on human health. His academic journey includes rigorous training in epidemiology and toxicology, equipping him with a robust foundation to tackle complex health issues. He has also participated in various national and international workshops and seminars, enhancing his expertise and network in the field.

Experience

With over a decade of experience, Dr. Mohammadi Moghadam has published extensively, contributing to over 50 research articles and several book chapters. His research spans multiple aspects of environmental health, including pollution assessment, risk analysis, and health impact studies. He collaborates with a wide range of professionals and institutions, promoting interdisciplinary approaches to solving environmental health challenges.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Mohammadi Moghadam has received multiple awards for his research contributions, including recognition from academic bodies and environmental organizations. His work has been cited extensively, reflecting his influence and leadership in the field. He is a member of several professional associations, enhancing his visibility and impact in environmental health engineering.

Research Focus

Dr. Mohammadi Moghadam’s research primarily focuses on the assessment and mitigation of health risks posed by environmental pollutants. He explores the effects of heavy metals, organic pollutants, and other contaminants on human health, aiming to develop effective strategies for risk reduction. His innovative work contributes to policy-making and public health initiatives, promoting healthier environments for communities.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Co-occurrence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals in various environmental matrices of a chronic petroleum polluted region in Iran; Pollution characterization, and assessment of ecological and human health risks 🌍
  2. Hair and urinary 2-hydroxynaphthalene levels in the people living in a region with frequent oil pipeline incidents in Iran: Health risk assessment 🔬
  3. Human health risk assessment of toxic heavy metals in summer crops and vegetables: a study in Ilam Province, Iran 🌾
  4. A systematic review on environmental perspectives of monkeypox virus 🦠
  5. Comparison of zinc levels in mothers with and without abortion: A systematic review and meta-analysis ⚖️
  6. New activated carbon derived from Gundelia tournefortii seeds for effective removal of acetaminophen from aqueous solutions: Adsorption performance 💧
  7. Investigation of the levels of essential and non-essential metals in women with and without abortion history: A study based on the Persian population of the Shahrekord cohort ⚗️
  8. Development and validation of a biological risk assessment tool among hospital personnel under COVID-19 pandemic conditions 🏥
  9. New insights into the role of metal(loid)s in the development of ulcerative colitis: a systematic review 📚
  10. Occurrence of Giardia and Cryptosporidium in effluents of urban wastewater treatment plants: A global systematic review and meta-analysis 🌊

Conclusion

Dr. Fazel Mohammadi Moghadam is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his significant academic contributions, innovative research focus, and the potential for broader societal impact. By enhancing public engagement and mentoring efforts, he can further solidify his influence in environmental health engineering, making him an exemplary figure in the research community.

Santamaria-Pelaez – Health sciences – Women Researcher Award

Santamaría-Peláez - Health sciences - Women Researcher Award

University of Burgos - Spain

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

SANTAMARÍA-PELÁEZ 🧠

Santamaría-Peláez, M. is a dedicated researcher in the fields of psychology and occupational therapy. Her work focuses on understanding the relationship between fragility and mental health, aiming to enhance the well-being of vulnerable populations. With numerous publications, she has contributed significantly to the academic community, emphasizing the importance of mental health assessments and interventions.

RESEARCH INTERESTS 📚

Her research primarily investigates the psychological aspects of fragility, exploring issues like anxiety, depression, and the impact of social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. By examining these factors, she aims to develop effective strategies for occupational balance and mental health improvement in affected populations. Her collaborative work in various studies reflects her commitment to addressing contemporary psychological challenges.

COMPETITIVE PROJECTS 🎓

Santamaría-Peláez has participated in notable competitive projects, such as ACCESSCULT, which focuses on achieving sustainable accessibility to cultural heritage through innovative educational content. Collaborating with international entities, she contributed her expertise to enhance educational practices that support inclusivity and accessibility in cultural contexts.

NEUROREHABILITATION APPROACHES 🧑‍⚕️

Another significant project she was involved in pertains to new approaches in neurorehabilitation for stroke patients. This initiative aimed to explore innovative methods for recovery and rehabilitation, enhancing the quality of life for those affected by strokes. Her collaborative role highlights her commitment to advancing knowledge in neuropsychology.

COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH 🌍

Throughout her career, Santamaría-Peláez has collaborated with various institutions, fostering interdisciplinary research that bridges psychology and occupational therapy. Her collaborations have led to impactful findings that inform clinical practices and policy-making, demonstrating the importance of teamwork in advancing mental health research.

PUBLICATIONS AND IMPACT 📖

With a strong publication record in electronic journals, her articles address pressing issues in psychology and healthcare. Each publication reflects her dedication to disseminating knowledge and contributing to the scientific community, ensuring that her findings reach practitioners and policymakers alike.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 🤝

In addition to her research, she actively engages with the community, advocating for mental health awareness and occupational therapy practices. Her efforts aim to educate the public about the importance of psychological well-being and its impact on overall health, reinforcing her role as a leader in her field.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: Validity and Reliability of the Short Physical Performance Battery Tool in Institutionalized Spanish Older Adults
Authors: Santamaría-Peláez, M., González-Bernal, J.J., Da Silva-González, Á., Mielgo-Ayuso, J., González-Santos, J.
Journal: Nursing Reports
Year: 2023

Title: Functionality, Physical Activity, Fatigue and Quality of Life in Patients with Acute COVID-19 and Long COVID Infection
Authors: Vélez-Santamaría, R., Fernández-Solana, J., Méndez-López, F., González-Santos, J., Santamaría-Peláez, M.
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2023

Title: β-Alanine Supplementation in Combat Sports: Evaluation of Sports Performance, Perception, and Anthropometric Parameters and Biochemical Markers—A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
Authors: Fernández-Lázaro, D., Fiandor, E.M., García, J.F., Roche, E., Mielgo-Ayuso, J.
Journal: Nutrients
Year: 2023

Title: Clinical and Epidemiological Profiles of Primary Healthcare Professionals with COVID-19 Infection and Long COVID: An Observational Study
Authors: Romero-Rodríguez, E., Vélez-Santamaría, R., Pérula-de-Torres, L.Á., Fernández-Solana, J., González-Santos, J.
Journal: Healthcare (Switzerland)
Year: 2023

Title: Influence of N-Acetylcysteine Supplementation on Physical Performance and Laboratory Biomarkers in Adult Males: A Systematic Review of Controlled Trials
Authors: Fernández-Lázaro, D., Domínguez-Ortega, C., Busto, N., Gutiérez-Abejón, E., Mielgo-Ayuso, J.
Journal: Nutrients
Year: 2023