Dr. Barbara Wlodarczyk | Authentic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Barbara Wlodarczyk | Authentic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Department of Digestive Tract Diseases, Medical University of Lodz, Poland

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Barbara Wlodarczyk embarked on her academic journey at the Medical University of Lodz, Poland, where she earned her medical degree (2006–2011). Her time at the university not only honed her foundational medical knowledge but also fueled her interest in gastroenterology and pancreatic diseases. Continuing her academic pursuits, Barbara joined the Department of Digestive Tract Diseases as a Ph.D. student from 2013 to 2019, where her research delved into gastrointestinal disorders, particularly focusing on pancreatic diseases and metabolic pathways. She successfully defended her thesis and was awarded a Ph.D. in medical sciences in 2021, a testament to her dedication to advancing clinical understanding in gastroenterology.

Professional Endeavors 🩺

Barbara’s professional journey is deeply rooted in her commitment to gastroenterology. From 2014 to 2022, she specialized in gastroenterology at the Department of Digestive Tract Diseases in Lodz, refining her clinical skills in diagnosing and treating complex digestive disorders. Her expertise was formally recognized in November 2022, when she earned the title of Specialist in Gastroenterology. Barbara continued her career as an assistant at the same department, contributing to the field through clinical care and active participation in teaching and research.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Barbara has made significant strides in understanding pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and chronic pancreatitis (CP). Her research explores the relationship between insulin resistance, insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1), and other biomarkers like retinol-binding protein (RBP-4). Her work aims to enhance diagnostic precision for pancreatic diseases and develop novel biomarkers to differentiate between CP and PDAC.

Her scholarly contributions are evident in her active participation in numerous conferences:

  • At Digestive Disease Week 2016 in San Diego and 2017 in Chicago, Barbara presented groundbreaking findings on IGF-1 and RBP-4.
  • Her oral presentation at the Polish Pancreatic Club (2016) and the European Pancreatic Club (2018, Berlin) showcased her leadership in translating complex data into clinical insights.
  • She also co-organized and presented at events like Juvenes pro medicine (2010–2012), fostering interdisciplinary discussions on gastrointestinal endoscopy and malignancies.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Barbara’s research has been recognized both nationally and internationally. Her poster presentations at prestigious platforms, including the European Pancreatic Club Annual Meetings and the Polish Society of Gastroenterology Congress, underscore her dedication to advancing pancreatic disease diagnostics.

Moreover, her efforts have gained recognition from global organizations. She was a prominent presenter at international conferences like the Digestive Disease Week in the U.S. and the European Pancreatic Club meetings in Liverpool and Berlin, solidifying her reputation as a global contributor to gastroenterology research.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Barbara’s research is pioneering the use of biomarkers like IGF-1 and IGFBP-2 in differentiating pancreatic diseases. Her work holds promise for earlier and more accurate diagnosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma, which could lead to improved survival rates and patient outcomes. Additionally, her ability to bridge clinical practice with research ensures that her findings are directly applicable to patient care.

As an educator, Barbara actively mentors young medical professionals, sharing her expertise in gastroenterology and research methodologies. Through her organizational roles, such as coordinating the gastroenterological course on premalignant and malignant gastrointestinal images, she has contributed to enhancing medical education and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌏

Looking ahead, Barbara Wlodarczyk aims to deepen her research into innovative diagnostic tools and personalized treatment strategies for gastrointestinal diseases. Her ongoing focus on biomarkers in pancreatic adenocarcinoma sets the stage for advancements in early detection and therapeutic interventions.

Barbara’s influence extends beyond her academic and clinical achievements, inspiring a generation of young scientists and clinicians to pursue excellence in gastroenterology. Her work represents a vital contribution to the global effort to combat pancreatic diseases and improve digestive health, ensuring a lasting legacy in medical science. 🌟

📝Notable Publications

Evaluation of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and retinol binding protein (RBP-4) levels in patients with newly diagnosed pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC)

Authors: B Wlodarczyk, A Gasiorowska, A Borkowska, E Malecka-Panas

Journal: Pancreatology

Year: 2017

Association of genetic variants affecting microRNAs and pancreatic cancer risk

Authors: Y Lu, C Corradi, M Gentiluomo, E López de Maturana, …

Journal: Frontiers in Genetics

Year: 2021

Serum levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 and insulin-like growth factor–binding protein 2 as a novel biomarker in the detection of pancreatic adenocarcinoma

Authors: B Wlodarczyk, A Borkowska, P Wlodarczyk, E Malecka-Panas, …

Journal: Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology

Year: 2020

The PANcreatic Disease ReseArch (PANDoRA) consortium: ten years’ experience of association studies to understand the genetic architecture of pancreatic cancer

Authors: D Campa, M Gentiluomo, A Stein, MN Aoki, M Oliverius, L Vodičková, …

Journal: Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology

Year: 2023

The role of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis in early diagnosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC)

Authors: B Wlodarczyk, A Gasiorowska, E Malecka-Panas

Journal: Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology

Year: 2018

Dr. Loreena Hill | Authentic Leadership | Excellence in Research

Dr. Loreena Hill | Authentic Leadership | Excellence in Research

Queen’s University Belfast, United Kingdom

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Loreena Hill embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in nursing, earning her Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in Nursing with RGN in September 1991, graduating with a 2-1. Her passion for nursing and healthcare education was evident early on, as she continued to deepen her knowledge and skills through advanced studies. In 2005, Dr. Hill completed her qualifications as an Independent & Supplementary Prescriber, equipping her with the expertise to contribute to the evolving landscape of healthcare. This commitment to lifelong learning culminated in her earning a Master of Science in Nursing in 2006, further solidifying her academic credentials.

Dr. Hill’s pursuit of excellence did not stop there. In 2015, she achieved a significant milestone by earning her PhD in Nursing. This achievement not only marked the pinnacle of her academic endeavors but also laid the groundwork for her to become a leading figure in the field of nursing education and research. Her early academic achievements set the stage for a career dedicated to advancing the practice of nursing through education, research, and leadership.

Professional Endeavors and Contributions 💼

Dr. Hill’s professional career has been marked by a series of significant roles that reflect her commitment to advancing nursing practice and education. From September 1991, when she first became a Registered Nurse, Adult, to her present appointment as a Reader at the School of Nursing & Midwifery at Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) in August 2023, Dr. Hill has consistently demonstrated her dedication to healthcare and education.

Her professional journey includes roles that have allowed her to contribute to both the clinical and academic spheres. From 2015 to 2016, she served as a Post-doctoral researcher and Heart Failure Nurse, a role that enabled her to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice. This experience was further enriched by her tenure as a Heart Failure Nurse at the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust from September 2016 to January 2017, where she played a critical role in patient care.

Dr. Hill’s academic contributions are equally noteworthy. From February 2017 to September 2018, she served as a full-time Research Fellow, focusing on advancing nursing research and contributing to the academic community. She then transitioned to the role of Full-time Lecturer of Research & Teaching at QUB, where she influenced the next generation of nurses through her teaching and research efforts. In August 2023, Dr. Hill’s expertise and dedication were recognized with her appointment as a Reader, where she continues to shape the future of nursing education and research.

Research Focus and Achievements 🧬

Dr. Hill’s research focus has been instrumental in advancing the field of nursing, particularly in the areas of heart failure, palliative care, and eHealth interventions. Her research has been supported by significant grants, underscoring the impact and relevance of her work. One of her notable projects is the CHOICE-ICD initiative, which received a £315,794 grant from the British Heart Foundation Career Development Research Fellowship for Nurses & Healthcare Professionals. This project, spanning from 2023 to 2026, aims to co-develop and pilot an eHealth intervention to provide information that reduces the concerns of patients living with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD).

Dr. Hill’s collaborative research efforts are also evident in her role in the ICARE4CVD project, which received a €672,197 grant from Horizon EU for a five-year period (2023-2028). This project focuses on individualized care from early risk of cardiovascular disease to established heart failure, showcasing Dr. Hill’s commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovative research.

Her research outputs have been published in esteemed journals, contributing valuable insights to the field of cardiovascular nursing. Her work on integrating palliative care into heart failure management, as reflected in her publications in the European Journal of Heart Failure, has set a benchmark for future research and clinical practice in this area.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Hill’s contributions to nursing and healthcare have been widely recognized, both within the academic community and the broader healthcare sector. In 2019, she was honored as a Fellow of the Heart Failure Associations, a testament to her expertise and influence in the field. Her leadership and impact were further acknowledged through her appointment as Chair of the Digital Health and Patient Care committee of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) for the 2022-2024 term.

Dr. Hill’s role as an external examiner for PhD theses at prestigious institutions like King’s College London highlights her standing as an expert in her field. Her contributions to specialist practice programs at Trinity College Dublin further demonstrate her influence in shaping nursing education across Europe.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Hill’s work has had a profound impact on both the academic community and the healthcare sector. Her research has informed clinical practices and policy decisions, particularly in the areas of heart failure and palliative care. Her leadership in developing eHealth interventions has provided patients and healthcare professionals with innovative tools to improve patient care and outcomes.

Dr. Hill’s influence extends beyond her research and teaching roles. As a committee member of the Irish Nurses Cardiovascular Association (INCA) and a Fellow of the European Society of Cardiology, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of cardiovascular nursing in Europe. Her contributions to the ESC Taskforce on Allied Professions further highlight her commitment to advancing the profession and ensuring that nursing practices are aligned with the latest research and clinical guidelines.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

As Dr. Hill continues her work as a Reader at QUB, her legacy in the field of nursing is already well established. Her research, teaching, and leadership have set new standards in nursing education and practice. Her ongoing projects, particularly in the area of eHealth and personalized care, promise to further advance the field and improve patient outcomes.

Looking ahead, Dr. Hill’s work will continue to influence the next generation of nurses, researchers, and healthcare professionals. Her commitment to advancing nursing through research, education, and leadership ensures that her contributions will have a lasting impact on the field and the lives of countless patients worldwide.

Notable Publications

What do patients want from a digital device that supports heart failure self-management?

Authors: [Not provided, typically found on the first page of the article]

Journal: Patient Education and Counseling

Year: 2024

 Determining the key education priorities related to heart failure care in nursing homes: a modified Delphi approach

Authors: [Not provided, typically found on the first page of the article]

Journal: Healthcare

Year: 2024

Title: Prevention and rehabilitation after heart transplantation: a clinical consensus statement of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology, Heart Failure Association of the ESC, and the European Cardio Thoracic Transplant Association, a section of ESOT

Authors: [Not provided, typically found on the first page of the article]

Journal: Transplant International

Year: 2024

Title: Prevention and rehabilitation after heart transplantation: A clinical consensus statement of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology, Heart Failure Association of the ESC, and the European Cardio Thoracic Transplant Association, a section of ESOT

Authors: [Not provided, typically found on the first page of the article]

Journal: European Journal of Preventive Cardiology

Year: 2024

Dr. Muhammad Shafiq | Authentic Leadership |Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Shafiq | Authentic Leadership |Best Researcher Award

Shantou University Medical College, China

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Muhammad Shafiq embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in veterinary medicine. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M) degree from The University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan, in 2014. His passion for animal sciences propelled him to pursue a Master’s degree at the same institution, which he completed in 2016. Muhammad’s drive for knowledge and research excellence led him to Nanjing Agricultural University in China, where he obtained his Ph.D. in Basic Veterinary Medicine in 2019. His doctoral studies focused on molecular pharmacology and antimicrobial resistance in bacteria, laying the groundwork for his future research endeavors.

🏢Professional Endeavors 

Muhammad Shafiq’s professional career is marked by significant roles in research and academia. His early experience as a Research Assistant at The University of Agriculture Peshawar involved investigating passive immunity transfer in neonatal calves and the seropositivity of brucellosis in humans and livestock. He further honed his skills during an internship at the Veterinary Research Institute Peshawar, where he conducted laboratory tests, diagnoses, and treatments for various animal diseases.

In 2020, Muhammad joined the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) in Islamabad, Pakistan, as a Researcher. He later moved to Shantou University Medical College in China, where he currently serves as a Senior Researcher at the Research Institute of Clinical Pharmacy. His postdoctoral fellowship at Shantou University Medical College under Prof. Dr. Xiaoyang Jiao focused on genomic and metagenomic characterization of antibiotic resistomes and the molecular epidemiology of antibiotic resistance in clinical isolates and environmental samples.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus 

Muhammad Shafiq’s research primarily revolves around Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in humans, animals, and the environment. He employs genomic and metagenomic approaches to identify resistant pathogens and understand the mechanisms driving antibiotic resistance. His notable research includes:

  • Investigating antibiotic resistomes from clinical isolates and urban sewages.
  • Studying molecular epidemiology and resistance mechanisms in Escherichia coli and Burkholderia pseudomallei.
  • Characterizing antibiotic resistance in gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria from various sources.
  • Exploring antimicrobial activities of novel plant extracts.

His research not only contributes to the scientific community but also aims to implement extensive surveillance networks to monitor and prevent future infectious disease outbreaks.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Muhammad Shafiq’s dedication to research and excellence has earned him several prestigious awards and honors. He was awarded the Shantou High-Level Talent Certificate by the Shantou Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau in 2022. His projects have received significant funding, including a two-year project worth 400,000 yuan from Shantou University Medical College and a one-year project from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) worth 200,000 yuan. His achievements during his doctoral studies include the Excellent Student Award at Nanjing Agricultural University and the Prime Minister Laptop Award from the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan.

🌟Impact and Influence 

Muhammad Shafiq’s impact extends beyond his research contributions. He has played an active role in academia by teaching courses on Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology at Nanjing Agricultural University and conducting English Scientific Writing courses at Shantou University Medical College. His mentorship has guided the academic journeys of several master’s and bachelor’s students, particularly in the field of antibiotic resistance in food-producing animals.

In addition to his teaching and research, Muhammad has made significant editorial contributions. He serves as a guest editor and review editor for various reputable journals, including Frontiers in Cellular Infection and Microbiology, Frontiers in Microbiology, and International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. His professional memberships include affiliations with the American Society of Microbiology and the Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases Society of Pakistan.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Muhammad Shafiq’s legacy in the field of antimicrobial resistance research is built on a foundation of rigorous academic pursuit, impactful research, and dedicated mentorship. His current research aims to address the occurrence and fate of antibiotics and antimicrobial-resistant pollutants in wastewater, with a focus on preventing future infectious disease outbreaks. By leveraging genomic and metagenomic technologies, he continues to push the boundaries of understanding in the field of AMR.

As he moves forward, Muhammad Shafiq is poised to make even greater contributions to global health and environmental safety. His work not only advances scientific knowledge but also has practical implications for public health policies and antibiotic stewardship programs. His vision for a comprehensive surveillance network highlights his commitment to mitigating the impact of antimicrobial resistance on a global scale.

Publications 

Integrative metagenomic dissection of last-resort antibiotic resistance genes and mobile genetic elements in hospital wastewaters

    • Authors: Muhammad Shafiq, Xiaoling Guo, Meimei Wang, Hazrat Bilal, Li Xin, Yumeng Yuan, Fen Yao, Taha Majid Mahmood Sheikh, Muhammad Nadeem Khan, Xiaoyang Jiao
    • Journal: Science of The Total Environment
    • Year: 2024

Distribution of Aspergillus species and risk factors for aspergillosis in mainland China: a systematic review

    • Authors: Sabir Khan, Hazrat Bilal, Muhammad Shafiq, Dongxing Zhang, Muhammad Awais, Canhua Chen, Muhammad Nadeem Khan, Qian Wang, Lin Cai, Rehmat Islam et al.
    • Journal: Therapeutic Advances in Infectious Disease
    • Year: 2024

The Pathogenesis of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Infection: How the Virus Escapes from Immune Recognition and Elimination

    • Authors: Abdul Kabir, Kalim Ullah, Asghar Ali Kamboh, Muhammad Abubakar, Muhammad Shafiq, Li Wang
    • Journal: Archivum Immunologiae et Therapiae Experimentalis
    • Year: 2024

Epidemiology and antifungal susceptibilities of clinically isolated Aspergillus species in South China

    • Authors: Hazrat Bilal, Dongxing Zhang, Muhammad Shafiq, Muhammad Nadeem Khan, Canhua Chen, Sabir Khan, Lin Cai, Rahat Ullah Khan, Haibin Hu, Yuebin Zeng
    • Journal: Epidemiology and Infection
    • Year: 2023

Metagenomic evidence for antibiotics-driven co-evolution of microbial community, resistome and mobilome in hospital sewage

    • Authors: Sun, J., Yuan, Y., Cai, L., Zeng, M., Li, X., Yao, F., Chen, W., Huang, Y., Shafiq, M., Xie, Q. et al.
    • Journal: Environmental Pollution
    • Year: 2023

Prof Dr. Kyung-MIn Kim | Authentic Leadership | Best Researcher Award | 3004

Prof Dr. Kyung-MIn Kim | Authentic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Kyungpook National Univesity, South Korea

🔗 Profile

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🌾🔬Kyung-Min Kim: Renowned Professor and Expert in Molecular Genetics 

Professor Kyung-Min Kim, a distinguished academic in the field of molecular genetics and crop breeding, currently serves at the Department of Applied Biosciences, Graduate School, Kyungpook National University. With an impressive background in agronomy, Dr. Kim’s work spans several decades and continents, highlighting his contributions to both scientific research and academia.

🎓Educational Background:

Dr. Kim earned his Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics and Breeding from Kyungpook National University in 1997, following an M.S. in Crop Breeding and a B.S. in Agronomy from the same institution. His extensive education underpins his expertise in plant biosciences.

👩‍🔬🌍Professional Experience:

Since October 2005, Professor Kim has been a key figure at Kyungpook National University, where he currently holds a professorship in the Division of Plant Biosciences. His career also includes notable positions such as a Research Professor at the Institute of Genetic Engineering and a Foreign Special Researcher at the Institute of Molecular Cell Biology, Tokyo University.

📚Editorial Role:

From January 2016 to February 2021, he served as the President of the Journal of Crop Science and Biotechnology, influencing the dissemination of cutting-edge research in his field.

📚 Publications

Exogenous GABA Enhances Copper Stress Resilience in Rice Plants via Antioxidant Defense Mechanisms, Gene Regulation, Mineral Uptake, and Copper Homeostasis

    • Authors: Zakirullah Khan, Rahmatullah Jan, Saleem Asif, Muhammad Farooq, Kyung-Min Kim
    • Journal: Antioxidants
    • Year: 2024

Melatonin alleviates arsenic (As) toxicity in rice plants via modulating antioxidant defense system and secondary metabolites and reducing oxidative stress

    • Authors: Jan, R.; Asif, S.; Asaf, S.; Lubna; Du, X.-X.; Park, J.-R.; Nari, K.; Bhatta, D.; Lee, I.-J.; Kim, K.-M.
    • Journal: Environmental Pollution
    • Year: 2023

Unraveling the mutualistic interaction between endophytic Curvularia lunata CSL1 and tomato to mitigate cadmium (Cd) toxicity via transcriptomic insights

    • Authors: Asaf, S.; Jan, R.; Khan, M.A.; Lubna; Khan, A.L.; Asif, S.; Bilal, S.; Ahmad, W.; Waqas, M.; Kim, K.-M. et al.
    • Journal: Science of the Total Environment
    • Year: 2023

Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping Identified Candidate Genes Involved in Plant Height Regulation in Rice

    • Authors: Jae-Ryoung Park; Yoon-Hee Jang; Eun-Gyeong Kim; Sang-Sun Hur; Kyung-Min Kim
    • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    • Year: 2023

Hormones and the antioxidant transduction pathway and gene expression, mediated by Serratia marcescens DB1, lessen the lethality of heavy metals (As, Ni, and Cr) in Oryza sativa L.

    • Authors: Dibya Bhatta; Arjun Adhikari; Sang-Mo Kang; Eun-Hae Kwon; Rahmatullah Jan; Kyung-Min Kim; In-Jung Lee
    • Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
    • Year: 2023