Rajesh Kanna Gopal | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Rajesh Kanna Gopal | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, India

Dr. Rajesh Kanna G. is a dedicated researcher with a strong background in Phycotechnology (Algal Biotechnology). With over nine years of experience, he has made significant contributions to the fields of anticancer and antiviral bioactive compounds, phycoremediation, bioplastics, and livestock feed derived from algae. As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Chennai, Dr. Kanna has consistently demonstrated his passion for advancing knowledge in plant biology and biotechnology. His establishment of the Centre for Phycotechnology at Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS) further showcases his commitment to fostering research in algae-based biotechnologies. With numerous publications, a growing citation record, and an expanding research portfolio, he is a respected name in his field.

Professional Profile

Education:

Dr. Rajesh Kanna G. completed his Ph.D. in Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology from the University of Madras, Chennai, where his thesis focused on the isolation, purification, and characterization of superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes from microalgae. He holds an M.Phil. in Botany, focusing on cholesterol oxidase production from Stenotrophomonas sp. Additionally, Dr. Kanna earned his M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Plant Biology and Biotechnology from the University of Madras, where he graduated with top honors, securing first place in his M.Sc. class.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Kanna’s professional journey spans multiple academic and research roles. He is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Chennai. His previous roles include Project Assistant at the NEERI-CSIR Chennai Zonal Laboratory, where he contributed to soil remediation trials at a mercury-contaminated site, and Junior Research Fellow at Presidency College, where he isolated a novel strain of Botryococcus braunii for biofuel production. His experience in both academic and applied research has shaped his approach to solving complex environmental and health-related challenges.

Research Interests:

Dr. Rajesh Kanna’s research interests lie primarily in the application of Phycotechnology, focusing on the potential of macro and microalgae for bioactive compound production, including anticancer and antiviral substances. His work also includes phycoremediation, the use of algae to degrade pollutants, and the development of algae-based biotechnologies for applications in livestock feed, hydroxyapatite production, bioplastics, and antimicrobial peptides. His multidisciplinary research is aimed at advancing sustainable, eco-friendly solutions to pressing environmental and health issues.

Research Skills:

Dr. Kanna possesses a wide range of technical skills that support his diverse research in Phycotechnology. These include expertise in microalgae isolation and cultivation, including raceway pond systems and photobioreactor cultivation. He is proficient in a variety of molecular techniques, enabling him to analyze and manipulate algae at the genetic and biochemical levels. His experience also spans biotechnological applications such as biofuel production, bioplastics, antimicrobial peptide synthesis, and phycoremediation. Dr. Kanna is skilled in leading laboratory teams and projects, fostering innovation in algae-based research.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Rajesh Kanna G. has received numerous accolades for his academic and research achievements. He was honored with the Young Scientist Award at SRM-ICBEST’22, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the field of Phycotechnology. He has also earned multiple academic distinctions, including securing First Rank in his M.Sc. and receiving various endowment prizes from the University of Madras and his college. These honors reflect his commitment to academic excellence and his growing reputation in the field of plant biotechnology and Phycotechnology.

Conclusion:

Dr. Rajesh Kanna G. is highly deserving of recognition as a Best Researcher due to his exceptional research in Phycotechnology, his contributions to sustainable biotechnology, and his successful track record of academic excellence and innovation. His research not only addresses pressing environmental issues but also presents solutions with broad potential for industrial applications. While there is room to expand his collaborative efforts and visibility, his consistent research output, leadership in establishing a research center, and recognition through awards make him an outstanding candidate for this award.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Biodegradation of polyethylene by green photosynthetic microalgae
    Authors: RV Kumar, GR Kanna, S Elumalai
    Journal: J Bioremediat Biodegrad 8 (381), 2
    Year: 2017
    Citation: 177
  2. Biodegradation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) sheet by microalga, Uronema africanum Borge
    Authors: E Sanniyasi, RK Gopal, DK Gunasekar, PP Raj
    Journal: Scientific Reports 11 (1), 17233
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 76
  3. In vitro anti-HIV-1 activity of the bioactive compound extracted and purified from two different marine macroalgae (seaweeds) (Dictyota bartayesiana JV Lamouroux and Turbinaria…)
    Authors: E Sanniyasi, G Venkatasubramanian, MM Anbalagan, PP Raj, RK Gopal
    Journal: Scientific Reports 9 (1), 12185
    Year: 2019
    Citation: 55
  4. Retrospective and prospective application of robots and artificial intelligence in global pandemic and epidemic diseases
    Authors: A Yoganandhan, GR Kanna, SD Subhash, JH Jothi
    Journal: Vacunas (English Edition) 22 (2), 98-105
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 25
  5. Industrial production of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD): A mini review
    Authors: RK Gopal, S Elumalai
    Journal: J. Probiotics Health 5 (5)
    Year: 2017
    Citation: 18
  6. In vitro anticancer potential of laminarin and fucoidan from Brown seaweeds
    Authors: E Sanniyasi, RK Gopal, R Damodharan, A Arumugam, M Sampath Kumar, …
    Journal: Scientific Reports 13 (1), 14452
    Year: 2023
    Citation: 16
  7. Extraction of carotenoid and thin layer chromatography (TLC), GC-MS, FT-IR and HPLC analysis of pharmaceutically important pigment astaxanthin from a new strain of…
    Authors: S Elumalai, BI Santhose, GR Kanna
    Journal: Weekly Science Research Journal 2 (8), 2321-7871
    Year: 2014
    Citation: 16
  8. Characterization and in vitro anticancer potential of exopolysaccharide extracted from a freshwater diatom Nitzschia palea (Kütz.) W.Sm. 1856
    Authors: RKGRD Elumalai Sanniyasi, Antony Prakash Rejoy Patrick, Kreedika Rajagopalan
    Journal: Scientific Reports 12, 22114
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 11
  9. Synthesis of bioethanol by dark fermentation using marine seaweed Acanthophora spicifera (Vahl.) Borgesen as a cheap substrate
    Authors: A Umamaheswari, P Saranraj, G Rajesh Kanna, S Elumalai, T Sangeetha
    Journal: Bioenergetics 6 (146), 2
    Year: 2017
    Citation: 7
  10. Extraction of phycocyanin an important pharmaceutical phycobiliproteins from cyanobacteria
    Authors: S Elumalai, KG Rajesh, G Jegan, T Sangeetha, SD Roop
    Journal: Int J Pharmaceut Res Dev 6, 67-74
    Year: 2014
    Citation: 7

 

Vaibhav Sharma | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vaibhav Sharma | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Clinical Observer at St. Louis Heart and Vascular, St. Louis, MO, United States

Vaibhav Sharma is a dedicated medical graduate with a strong foundation in clinical practice and research. With two years of patient care experience, he has developed a keen eye for detailed medical assessments and accurate documentation. His leadership in innovative health screening projects demonstrates his commitment to improving healthcare outcomes. Vaibhav is passionate about advancing medicine through evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary collaboration, combining his expertise in patient care with a drive for continuous learning and research. Aspiring to a respected academic position, he seeks to contribute to healthcare advancement through impactful research and clinical practice, aiming to make a meaningful difference in patient care and medical progress.

Professional Profile

Education

Vaibhav Sharma completed his MBBS from the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, India, from August 2017 to February 2024. He consistently ranked among the top 10% of his class, excelling in subjects like Pharmacology, Microbiology, Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology, and Pediatrics. He has successfully passed USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK, achieving a high score of 271 in Step 2 CK, placing him in the 98th percentile. He also holds impressive scores in the TOEFL (115/120) and the Occupational English Test, showcasing his strong command over the English language. His academic background is marked by a solid blend of clinical skills and theoretical knowledge, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors in the medical field.

Professional Experience

Vaibhav Sharma’s professional journey includes a Visiting Scholar role at the University of Texas Health in Houston, where he immersed himself in advanced heart failure and heart transplant care. His experience extends to an observership at Christian Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, where he enhanced his understanding of interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. Prior to this, he completed an externship at the Heart and Vascular Institute in Detroit, Michigan, focusing on cardiovascular health management and patient care efficiency. He also served as a Research Analyst at Panscience Innovations, where he led the development of an AI-based software aimed at improving clinical operations. Vaibhav’s clinical internship at Command Hospital, Pune, provided hands-on experience across various specialties, allowing him to contribute to rural health screening projects and develop efficient screening interventions for lifestyle diseases.

Research Interest

Vaibhav Sharma’s research interests lie at the intersection of clinical medicine and innovative health technologies. He is passionate about exploring cardiovascular diseases, particularly focusing on heart failure, arrhythmias, and myocardial conditions. His projects have included screening interventions for hematological abnormalities and lifestyle diseases in rural populations, emphasizing early detection and preventive care. Vaibhav is also interested in the role of lipid profiles in the progression of diabetic retinopathy, as well as the genetic basis of stress-induced ventricular arrhythmias. He aims to integrate emerging technologies, such as AI and machine learning, into clinical research to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes. His research reflects a commitment to advancing evidence-based practices and improving patient care through rigorous scientific inquiry.

Research Skills

Vaibhav Sharma possesses a robust set of research skills that enable him to conduct thorough and impactful studies. He is proficient in designing and executing clinical surveys, as demonstrated in his rural welfare research on myeloma screening and lifestyle disease prevention. His experience includes data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation of complex clinical data, skills that he has applied in projects such as his lipid profile study on diabetic retinopathy patients. Vaibhav is also skilled in using electronic medical record (EMR) systems like EPIC for research purposes, ensuring accurate data management. Additionally, he has a strong background in preparing manuscripts for publication, contributing to peer-reviewed journals. His ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and present research findings effectively makes him a valuable contributor to the scientific community.

Awards and Honors

Vaibhav Sharma has earned several awards and recognitions throughout his academic and professional journey. He received a prestigious research grant from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for his study on the lipid profile in diabetic retinopathy patients. He was also acknowledged by the state government for his rural welfare project, which received a “Mega Project” status and a sponsorship of INR 1,00,00,000. In addition, Vaibhav has been recognized for his academic excellence, consistently ranking in the top 10% of his class at AFMC, Pune, and securing honors in multiple medical disciplines. He has also received accolades for his contributions to clinical presentations, such as his case presentation on bisalbuminemia at the American College of Physicians – India Chapter. His achievements reflect his dedication to medical research, academic excellence, and community-focused healthcare initiatives.

Conclusion

Vaibhav Sharma is a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with strengths in conducting impactful research, receiving grants, and integrating clinical experience with research insights. His strong academic background and contributions to the field of cardiology and community health research are commendable. By focusing on long-term studies, enhancing his publication record, and narrowing his research focus, he can further strengthen his candidacy. His passion for continuous learning and medical advancement makes him a valuable asset to the research community.

Publications Top Notes

  1. SAICR‐CTO: Single Access Impella‐Guided Complete Revascularization in Chronic Total Occlusion—A Novel Approach to High‐Risk PCI
    • Journal: Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions
    • Year: 2024-10-22
    • DOI: 10.1002/ccd.31277
    • Contributors: Vaibhav Sharma, Abishek Arokiadoss, Anjali Bhardwaj, Shariq Shamim
  2. Comparison between Amino Acid Profiling of Structural Proteins of Earliest and Recent Omicron Strain of SARS-CoV-2 and Nutritional Burden on COVID-19 Patients
    • Journal: Human Nutrition & Metabolism
    • Year: 2023-12
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.hnm.2023.200220
    • Contributors: Vivek Ambade, Sonia Ambade, Vaibhav Sharma, Prasanna Sanas
  3. Normative Data of Beta-2-Microglobulin and Plasma Proteins from an Agrarian Indian Community By a Door-to-Door Survey: Results of Simple (IMAGe-002B) Study
    • Journal: Blood
    • Year: 2023-11-02
    • DOI: 10.1182/blood-2023-191125
    • Contributors: Yash Vashishth, Uday Yanamandra, Saurabh Bobdey, Vaibhav Sharma, V K Bhatti, J Muthukrishnan, Pankaj Malhotra, Velu Nair
  4. Prevalence of MGUS in Rural Indian Population: Results of Simple (IMAGe-002A) Study
    • Journal: Blood
    • Year: 2023-11-02
    • DOI: 10.1182/blood-2023-189661
    • Contributors: Celine Raphael, Uday Yanamandra, Saurabh Bobdey, Vaibhav Sharma, V K Bhatti, J Muthukrishnan, Pankaj Malhotra, Velu Nair

 

 

Isabella Colonna | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Isabella Colonna | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

MD, PhD at ASL Lecce, Ospedale Ferrari – Casarnao, Italy.

Dr. Isabella Colonna, MD, PhD, is a highly skilled neurologist with a deep specialization in epilepsy. She serves as the head of the EEG/Epilepsy Unit at the Neurology Department of “F. Ferrari” Hospital in Casarano, ASL Lecce, Italy. With nine years of experience, Dr. Colonna has significantly contributed to both clinical practice and research in neurology. She has a robust academic background, having earned her medical degree with honors from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, followed by her PhD focusing on neuroimaging in Alzheimer’s Disease. Her involvement with the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) as a representative on the Communication Committee and her role as an EAN Brain Health Ambassador underscore her commitment to advancing neurological health awareness across Europe. Dr. Colonna’s work in promoting brain health and collaboration between neurological societies, political institutions, and patient organizations is widely recognized, positioning her as a leader in the field.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Isabella Colonna graduated cum laude in Medicine from the University of Rome Tor Vergata in 2014, achieving a score of 110/110. She further expanded her education through an Erasmus program at the Medical University of Regensburg, Germany, in 2012-2013. After obtaining her medical degree, she pursued a residency in Neurology at the Medical University of Graz, Austria, which she completed in 2021. During her residency, she engaged in clinical training and research, culminating in a PhD with a focus on “Magnetization Transfer Imaging: A Non-Conventional MRI Technique for Longitudinal Assessment of Alzheimer’s Disease.” Recognized for her expertise, Dr. Colonna also earned a Neurosonology Certification from the General Medical Council of Austria in 2021. Additionally, she completed a Master’s degree in Neurophysiology at the Medical University of Bologna from 2023 to 2024, which further strengthened her skills in the field.

Professional Experience

Dr. Isabella Colonna’s professional journey reflects her dedication to clinical neurology and research. Since 2023, she has been leading the EEG/Epilepsy Unit at the “F. Ferrari” Hospital in Casarano, ASL Lecce, Italy. Prior to this role, she served as a neurologist in various hospitals across Southern Italy, including the “A. Perrino” Hospital in Brindisi and the IRCCS Maugeri di Bari, where she gained extensive experience in treating neurological disorders. From 2015 to 2021, Dr. Colonna was a neurology resident at the Medical University of Graz, Austria, where she honed her skills in neuroimaging and patient care. During this time, she also served as a teaching assistant at the university, sharing her knowledge with students. Her professional experience extends to her involvement with the European Academy of Neurology (EAN), where she has played a key role in communication efforts and advocacy for brain health.

Research Interest

Dr. Isabella Colonna’s research interests are centered on advancing the understanding of neurological disorders, particularly through neuroimaging and epilepsy research. Her PhD research focused on “Magnetization Transfer Imaging” as a method for tracking changes in Alzheimer’s disease over time, highlighting her interest in non-conventional MRI techniques. Her work aims to improve the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative conditions through advanced imaging methods. Additionally, she is passionate about improving patient outcomes in epilepsy, which aligns with her current role as the head of the EEG/Epilepsy Unit at “F. Ferrari” Hospital. Dr. Colonna is also deeply committed to brain health awareness and policy-making, as evidenced by her involvement in the European Academy of Neurology’s (EAN) initiatives. Her research contributions, such as a recent study on the role of neurological societies in promoting brain health in Europe, underscore her dedication to bridging clinical practice with innovative research.

Research Skills

Dr. Isabella Colonna possesses a diverse set of research skills that have contributed to her success in the field of neurology. She is proficient in advanced neuroimaging techniques, including Magnetization Transfer Imaging (MTI), which she utilized during her PhD research to study Alzheimer’s disease progression. Her expertise extends to neurophysiology, as evidenced by her leadership of the EEG/Epilepsy Unit at “F. Ferrari” Hospital, where she applies her skills in electroencephalography (EEG) for the diagnosis and management of epilepsy. Dr. Colonna is also experienced in conducting clinical research, having completed multiple projects that have led to publications in reputable journals. Her work with the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) has further developed her skills in survey-based research, focusing on brain health awareness. Additionally, she has experience as a reviewer and abstract evaluator for the EAN, contributing her expertise to the advancement of neurological research.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Dr. Isabella Colonna has received numerous awards and honors, reflecting her outstanding contributions to the field of neurology. In 2019, she was awarded the “Young Investigator Award” by the Austrian Alzheimer Association (Österreichische Alzheimer Gesellschaft) for her research on neuroimaging in Alzheimer’s disease. The same year, she received a bursary from the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) for her participation in the 5th EAN Congress in Oslo, Norway. Dr. Colonna’s commitment to advancing brain health awareness was further recognized in 2024, when she was named an EAN “Brain Health Ambassador.” Her involvement with the EAN also includes roles as a representative on the eCommunication Board and Communication Committee, where she has contributed to shaping the dialogue around neurological health. These accolades highlight her leadership, expertise, and dedication to improving neurological care and research on both national and European levels.

Conclusion

Isabella Colonna is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her contributions to neurology, particularly in neuroimaging and epilepsy, her active involvement in professional societies, and her research accomplishments make her well-suited for this recognition. Strengthening her international collaborations and focusing on innovation could further bolster her profile for such prestigious awards.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Cortical laminar necrosis due to hypoglycemia in anti-CV2/CRMP5 paraneoplastic encephalitis: a curious association
    • Authors: Altomare, S., Colonna, I., Leone, R., Giorelli, M.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
    • Journal: Acta Neurologica Belgica, 124(4), pp. 1405–1408.
  2. Sex steroid hormones and epilepsy: Effects of hormonal replacement therapy on seizure frequency of postmenopausal women with epilepsy—A systematic review
    • Authors: Carvalho, V., Colonna, I., Curia, G., Vonck, K., Zedde, M.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
    • Journal: European Journal of Neurology, 30(9), pp. 2884–2898.
  3. Bringing door-to-needle times within the European benchmarks results in better stroke patients outcomes in a spoke hospital from the Apulian Region
    • Authors: Giorelli, M., Leone, R., Aniello, M.S., Tatò, E., Scelzi, A.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 1
    • Journal: Neurological Sciences, 44(9), pp. 3199–3207.
  4. Serum levels of IL-6 are associated with cognitive impairment in the salus in apulia population-based study
    • Authors: Griseta, C., Battista, P., Castellana, F., Minafra, B., Sardone, R.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 6
    • Journal: Heliyon, 9(3), e13972.
  5. Clinico-genetic spectrum of limb-girdle muscular weakness in Austria: A multicentre cohort study
    • Authors: Krenn, M., Tomschik, M., Wagner, M., Löscher, W.N., Cetin, H.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 4
    • Journal: European Journal of Neurology, 29(6), pp. 1815–1824.
  6. Predicting atrial fibrillation after cryptogenic stroke via a clinical risk score—a prospective observational study
    • Authors: Kneihsl, M., Bisping, E., Scherr, D., Enzinger, C., Gattringer, T.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 22
    • Journal: European Journal of Neurology, 29(1), pp. 149–157.
  7. Microstructural tissue changes in Alzheimer disease brains: Insights from magnetization transfer imaging
    • Authors: Colonna, I., Koini, M., Pirpamer, L., Schmidt, R., Ropele, S.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 6
    • Journal: American Journal of Neuroradiology, 42(4), pp. 688–693.
  8. Neuropsychiatric symptoms differently affect mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease patients: a retrospective observational study
    • Authors: Scaricamazza, E., Colonna, I., Sancesario, G.M., Mercuri, N.B., Liguori, C.
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 30
    • Journal: Neurological Sciences, 40(7), pp. 1377–1382.
  9. Cognitive Deficits and Related Brain Lesions in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure
    • Authors: Frey, A., Sell, R., Homola, G.A., Störk, S., Stoll, G.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 74
    • Journal: JACC: Heart Failure, 6(7), pp. 583–592.
  10. Abnormal blood flow on transcranial duplex sonography predicts poor outcome after stroke thrombectomy
    • Authors: Kneihsl, M., Niederkorn, K., Deutschmann, H., Fazekas, F., Gattringer, T.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 18
    • Journal: Stroke, 49(11), pp. 2780–2782.