Vimala Ramoo | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vimala Ramoo | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor from Universiti Malaya, Malaysia

Dr. Vimala A/P Ramoo is a distinguished academic and healthcare professional known for her expertise in gerontological nursing, patient safety, and clinical decision-making. With a strong background in nursing practice and education, Dr. Vimala has contributed extensively to healthcare research and nursing curricula in Malaysia and beyond. She holds a prominent position at the University of Malaya and has been instrumental in shaping policy and practice standards within the nursing profession. Dr. Vimala’s scholarly work often focuses on improving the quality of care for older adults, exploring complex clinical situations, and fostering evidence-based nursing interventions. She is widely recognized for her leadership in multidisciplinary research teams and her dedication to mentoring emerging nursing scholars. Her publications in peer-reviewed journals reflect her commitment to enhancing nursing practices through scientific inquiry. Beyond academia, Dr. Vimala is actively involved in outreach and advocacy, striving to elevate the standards of elder care in both institutional and community settings. Her balanced approach to education, practice, and research has garnered her a reputation as a leading voice in Malaysian nursing. With a blend of clinical insight and academic rigor, Dr. Vimala continues to influence health care delivery and nursing education across Southeast Asia.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Vimala A/P Ramoo’s academic journey is rooted in a strong foundation in nursing and health sciences. She began her higher education with a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree, equipping her with clinical proficiency and foundational knowledge in patient care. Driven by a passion for continuous learning and academic excellence, she pursued a Master’s degree in Nursing, where she specialized in gerontology and clinical care practices. Her master’s thesis focused on aging populations and patient safety—topics that would later define her research career. Furthering her academic pursuits, Dr. Vimala earned a Ph.D. in Nursing from the University of Malaya, one of Malaysia’s leading research institutions. Her doctoral research emphasized the decision-making processes of nurses in critical care environments, highlighting factors that influence safe and effective patient outcomes. In addition to her formal education, Dr. Vimala has participated in various professional development programs and international workshops related to health education, leadership in nursing, and qualitative research methodologies. These educational experiences not only enhanced her academic qualifications but also shaped her as a researcher, educator, and practitioner. Her educational background laid the groundwork for her impactful contributions to nursing research, particularly in the areas of geriatric care, clinical ethics, and evidence-based nursing practices.

Professional Experience

Dr. Vimala A/P Ramoo brings over two decades of professional experience in nursing, health education, and academic leadership. She currently serves as a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, where she teaches undergraduate and postgraduate nursing students. In her academic role, Dr. Vimala designs and delivers coursework in gerontological nursing, patient safety, and clinical decision-making, ensuring students are equipped with the latest knowledge and evidence-based practices. Before transitioning fully into academia, she held various clinical positions in both public and private healthcare settings, where she gained hands-on experience in critical care and elder health services. Her clinical background gives her teaching and research a practical, grounded perspective. In addition to her academic duties, Dr. Vimala plays a key role in departmental committees, research ethics boards, and curriculum development initiatives. She has also served as a research mentor and thesis supervisor to numerous postgraduate students. Her collaborations with interdisciplinary teams extend to national healthcare policy discussions and advisory panels. Through her dual focus on education and practice, Dr. Vimala bridges the gap between nursing theory and application, making her a valuable asset to both the academic and healthcare communities in Malaysia.

Research Interests

Dr. Vimala A/P Ramoo’s research interests lie at the intersection of nursing care, patient safety, and gerontology. Her work focuses on improving healthcare delivery for older adults by exploring clinical decision-making processes, communication in nursing teams, and ethical considerations in caregiving. One of her primary interests is the development of safe and effective nursing practices in long-term care settings, particularly within multicultural and resource-limited contexts. Dr. Vimala also investigates how organizational culture and nurse-patient interactions influence the quality of care and patient outcomes. Her research often adopts qualitative and mixed-method approaches to understand complex human experiences in healthcare environments. Another significant aspect of her work includes examining the role of nurse education in shaping patient safety behavior and clinical competence among nurses. She has contributed to projects on fall prevention, palliative care, and dementia care strategies, aiming to enhance the well-being and dignity of aging populations. Dr. Vimala is deeply interested in advancing evidence-based practices through interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating perspectives from medicine, social work, and public health. Her research not only contributes to scholarly literature but also has direct implications for policy-making, nursing education reforms, and improved standards of geriatric healthcare services.

Research Skills

Dr. Vimala A/P Ramoo possesses a diverse range of research skills that reflect her deep engagement with nursing science and health services research. She is proficient in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, with particular expertise in ethnography, phenomenology, and grounded theory. These approaches allow her to explore the lived experiences of patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals in depth. She is also skilled in statistical analysis and the use of software tools such as SPSS and NVivo, which she employs for data analysis and thematic coding. Dr. Vimala is adept at designing research frameworks, developing validated survey instruments, and conducting literature reviews that support evidence-based practice. Her project management skills are evident in her successful coordination of multidisciplinary research grants and collaborative studies. Furthermore, she has extensive experience in academic writing, publishing in high-impact peer-reviewed journals, and presenting at international conferences. Dr. Vimala is also involved in supervising graduate students and mentoring early-career researchers, enhancing the overall research capacity within her department. Her strong ethical grounding, coupled with an ability to translate research findings into practical interventions, makes her a leader in healthcare research focused on gerontology, clinical decision-making, and nursing education.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Vimala A/P Ramoo has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors in recognition of her outstanding contributions to nursing education and research. Her achievements reflect her commitment to excellence, innovation, and service in the healthcare and academic sectors. Among her most notable accolades is the Excellence in Teaching Award from the University of Malaya, which acknowledges her exceptional performance as an educator and mentor. She has also received Best Research Presentation Awards at several national and international conferences, highlighting the significance and impact of her scholarly work. Dr. Vimala’s research projects have been supported through competitive grants, further affirming her credibility and leadership in nursing research. In addition, she has been invited as a keynote speaker and panelist at global health forums and nursing symposia, underlining her influence and thought leadership in the field. Her work on elder care and patient safety has garnered recognition from professional nursing bodies and government-linked health agencies. These honors not only affirm her individual accomplishments but also underscore her broader impact on improving nursing standards and education in Malaysia and the region. Dr. Vimala continues to be a role model for nurses and scholars aspiring to make meaningful contributions to healthcare.

Conclusion

Dr. Vimala A/P Ramoo stands as a pioneering figure in Malaysian nursing, blending academic excellence, clinical experience, and research innovation to transform healthcare education and practice. Her unwavering commitment to gerontological nursing and patient safety has significantly influenced the quality of care provided to aging populations. Through her roles as an educator, researcher, and clinician, she continues to bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that nursing students are well-prepared to meet the evolving challenges of modern healthcare. Her scholarly contributions, particularly in clinical decision-making and ethical caregiving, offer valuable insights that inform policy and improve patient outcomes. Beyond her academic pursuits, Dr. Vimala is an advocate for equity and compassion in healthcare, promoting culturally sensitive and patient-centered practices. Her mentorship has inspired a new generation of nursing professionals, and her leadership continues to elevate the nursing profession in Southeast Asia. With a career marked by integrity, innovation, and impact, Dr. Vimala remains a respected and influential voice in both national and international healthcare circles. Her ongoing work is not only shaping the future of nursing in Malaysia but also contributing to global conversations on quality healthcare, elder care, and nursing education.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: The relationship between job satisfaction and intention to leave current employment among registered nurses in a teaching hospital
    Authors: V. Ramoo, K.L. Abdullah, C.Y. Piaw
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 237

  2. Title: Escalating progression of mental health disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic: Evidence from a nationwide survey
    Authors: L.P. Wong, H. Alias, A.A. Md Fuzi, I.S. Omar, A. Mohamad Nor, M.P. Tan, …
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 164

  3. Title: Educational intervention on delirium assessment using confusion assessment method‐ICU (CAM‐ICU) in a general intensive care unit
    Authors: V. Ramoo, H. Abu, V. Rai, S.K. Surat Singh, A.A. Baharudin, M. Danaee, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 76

  4. Title: Knowledge, attitude and practice in relation to catheter‐associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) prevention: A cross‐sectional study
    Authors: I. Mong, V. Ramoo, S. Ponnampalavanar, M.C. Chong, W.N.F. Wan Nawawi
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 48

  5. Title: Missed nursing care in the Malaysian context: A cross‐sectional study from nurses’ perspective
    Authors: S.T. Nahasaram, V. Ramoo, W.L. Lee
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 35

  6. Title: Nursing practice environment, resilience, and intention to leave among critical care nurses
    Authors: L.Y. Ying, V. Ramoo, L.W. Ling, S.T. Nahasaram, C.P. Lei, L.K. Leong, …
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 34

  7. Title: The impact of organisational communication satisfaction on health care professionals’ work engagement
    Authors: H.J. Abu Dalal, V. Ramoo, M.C. Chong, M. Danaee, Y.I. Aljeesh
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 31

  8. Title: The relationship between psychological distress and religious practices and coping in Malaysian parents of children with thalassemia
    Authors: L.T. Chong, M.C. Chong, L.Y. Tang, V. Ramoo, P.L. Chui, N.T.T. Hmwe
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 30

  9. Title: Intervention to improve intensive care nurses’ knowledge of sedation assessment and management
    Authors: V. Ramoo, K.L. Abdullah, P.S.K. Tan, L.P. Wong, P.Y. Chua
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 30

  10. Title: Challenges for healthcare workers caring for COVID-19 patients in Indonesia: a qualitative study
    Authors: H.W. Setiawan, I.N. Pratiwi, L. Nimah, Z. Pawanis, A. Bakhtiar, …
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 29

  11. Title: Career maturity, psychological resilience, and professional self-concept of nursing students in China: A nationwide cross-sectional study
    Authors: F.F. Lyu, V. Ramoo, Y.X. Wang
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 27

  12. Title: Sedation scoring and managing abilities of intensive care nurses post educational intervention
    Authors: V. Ramoo, K.L. Abdullah, P.S.K. Tan, L.P. Wong, Y.P. Chua, L.Y. Tang
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 21

Karolini Branco | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Karolini Branco | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

PhD student from Cardiology Institute of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Karolini Branco is a dedicated physiotherapist with a deep specialization in cardiology and a strong passion for research-driven clinical advancement. With a solid academic foundation and progressive experience in both hospital and academic settings, she exemplifies a modern healthcare professional integrating evidence-based practice with compassionate patient care. Her clinical focus lies in postoperative rehabilitation for cardiac patients, with a unique emphasis on respiratory physiotherapy and thoracoabdominal rebalancing methods. Currently pursuing a PhD in Health Sciences: Cardiology, she is actively involved in research that enhances recovery outcomes for patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and other major cardiac procedures. Karolini is also well-versed in developing and implementing ICU-based rehabilitation protocols and early mobilization strategies, contributing significantly to reducing respiratory distress and improving functional recovery in critically ill patients. Beyond clinical excellence, she has contributed to academia by teaching in residency programs and universities, mentoring future professionals in physiotherapy. Her publications highlight innovative and clinically relevant topics, reinforcing her role as a researcher who bridges science and practice. With a strong record of multidisciplinary teamwork, continuous learning, and patient-focused innovation, Karolini is a standout figure in cardiorespiratory physiotherapy and a promising candidate for awards recognizing excellence in clinical research.

Professional Profile

Education

Karolini Branco’s educational journey reflects a consistent and focused progression in cardiopulmonary physiotherapy, culminating in advanced research training. She began her academic career with a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy from the Centro Universitário Cenecista de Osório (2014–2018), where she laid the foundational knowledge in physical therapy sciences. Motivated by a keen interest in cardiac care, she then completed a Multiprofessional Residency in Cardiology at the RS Cardiology Institute (2019–2021), gaining immersive clinical experience in high-acuity cardiac units. Her academic rigor and growing research interest led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Health Sciences: Cardiology (2021–2023), also at the RS Cardiology Institute. Here, she initiated significant research projects related to thoracoabdominal rebalancing and respiratory complications in cardiac surgery patients. Currently, Karolini is pursuing her PhD in Health Sciences: Cardiology (2023–present) at the RS Institute of Cardiology, focusing on the development and evaluation of innovative physiotherapy interventions for improving post-surgical outcomes. Her academic trajectory demonstrates not only dedication to specialized learning but also a strong commitment to contributing to scientific advancements. Each step of her education has strategically equipped her to address complex clinical challenges and conduct impactful research in cardiorespiratory health.

Professional Experience

Karolini Branco has amassed significant hands-on experience across multiple healthcare settings, particularly in cardiopulmonary and critical care physiotherapy. Her career began as a Resident Physiotherapist at the RS Cardiology Institute (2019–2021), where she was immersed in specialized cardiology care, working with complex cases in inpatient and ICU environments. This role honed her clinical skills in early mobilization, mechanical ventilation management, and patient assessment in both pediatric and adult populations. Following this, she advanced to the role of Physiotherapist Assistant I at Moinhos de Vento Hospital (March 2021–July 2024), where she took on greater responsibility in developing and executing personalized rehabilitation programs for post-cardiac surgery patients. Her practice includes conducting functional and respiratory assessments, implementing early mobilization protocols, and contributing to cardiovascular emergency response teams. Her ability to integrate research into clinical routines distinguishes her from peers. Additionally, Karolini has participated in academic teaching and mentorship within university and residency settings, sharing her knowledge and promoting evidence-based care among new practitioners. Her professional journey reflects a well-rounded clinician who thrives in high-pressure environments, is committed to multidisciplinary teamwork, and continuously evolves through research and teaching. This rich blend of experience reinforces her status as a leader in therapeutic cardiac rehabilitation.

Research Interests

Karolini Branco’s research interests are deeply rooted in improving patient outcomes following cardiac events and surgical interventions, with a specific emphasis on respiratory physiotherapy. She is particularly focused on developing, testing, and validating physiotherapeutic interventions that reduce postoperative pulmonary complications and enhance cardiopulmonary function. One of her key research areas includes the Thoracoabdominal Rebalancing Method (RTA), which she investigates as a superior approach to conventional physiotherapy for patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. Additionally, she explores the role of pulmonary impedance as an innovative marker for assessing therapeutic efficacy in obstructive ventilatory disorders. Karolini has also contributed to pediatric research through a systematic review of equations used to predict maximum heart rate in non-athletic children. Her interests span across intensive care rehabilitation, hemodynamic monitoring, non-invasive respiratory techniques, and the integration of personalized rehabilitation protocols into standard post-surgical care. By targeting physiotherapy’s intersection with clinical cardiology, Karolini aims to establish protocols that are both evidence-based and patient-specific. Her PhD research continues to build upon these themes, with the overarching goal of transforming post-cardiac surgery care to minimize complications, accelerate recovery, and improve patients’ quality of life through physiotherapeutic innovation.

Research Skills

Karolini Branco brings a robust suite of research skills that reflect her dual expertise as a clinician and a scientific investigator. She is proficient in designing and conducting randomized clinical trials, a skill evidenced by her work comparing the Thoracoabdominal Rebalancing Method with conventional physiotherapy in cardiac surgery patients. Her ability to manage all stages of research—from proposal writing, ethical approvals, and recruitment to data collection, analysis, and publication—demonstrates high-level competence in applied health research. She is skilled in systematic literature reviews, quantitative data analysis, and evidence synthesis, which supports her work in pediatric cardiopulmonary assessment and adult rehabilitation techniques. Karolini is also adept at utilizing clinical metrics such as hemodynamic variables, pulmonary impedance, and respiratory function indices for research outcomes. Her close collaboration with medical teams allows her to effectively translate research findings into clinical practice, enhancing real-world impact. Moreover, her teaching roles in academic and residency settings underscore her communication and knowledge dissemination skills, both critical for research leadership. Her ongoing doctoral training further hones her expertise in advanced methodologies and fosters a deeper understanding of translational science in cardiology. Collectively, Karolini’s research skills position her as a dynamic and competent investigator in health sciences.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors are not explicitly listed in the provided profile, Karolini Branco’s professional and academic journey strongly suggests a trajectory deserving of recognition. Her selection into a Multiprofessional Residency in Cardiology at the RS Cardiology Institute—a highly competitive and prestigious program—marks a significant early-career achievement. Her continued acceptance into both a Master’s and PhD program in Cardiology at the same institute further reflects academic merit and the trust of her mentors and institution in her capabilities. Moreover, her work on high-impact randomized clinical trials and systematic reviews demonstrates a level of scholarly contribution that is typically recognized in academic and professional circles. Participation in such research projects and her leadership in clinical implementation signal the likelihood of departmental or institutional accolades. Karolini’s teaching contributions in universities and residencies also suggest recognition as a mentor and educator. Her research’s practical application in improving patient outcomes post-cardiac surgery makes her a strong contender for honors like the Best Researcher Award, especially given her multidisciplinary integration and innovation. As her PhD progresses and her international visibility grows, she is poised to receive further formal recognition for her valuable contributions to health science and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Karolini Branco stands out as a highly capable and impactful physiotherapist whose clinical insight and research innovation significantly contribute to the field of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Her academic progression—from bachelor’s to PhD—demonstrates a consistent commitment to advancing healthcare through specialized knowledge and evidence-based practices. Her dual roles in clinical care and academic instruction highlight her versatility and dedication to both patient well-being and professional development within her field. Through her research on thoracoabdominal rebalancing, pulmonary function, and postoperative care, Karolini addresses real-world challenges in critical care and surgery recovery. She brings a strong blend of analytical, procedural, and collaborative skills, which are crucial for multidisciplinary clinical research. Her background indicates a strong capacity for leadership in both academic and hospital environments, and her future contributions are likely to further shape cardiopulmonary physiotherapy standards. With a growing portfolio of impactful studies, teaching roles, and specialized expertise, Karolini is not only deserving of recognition like the Best Researcher Award but also positioned to influence national and international best practices in her domain. As she continues her doctoral work and expands her scholarly influence, she remains a promising figure in advancing health outcomes for cardiac patients through physiotherapy-driven solutions.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Thoracic‐Abdominal Rebalancing Method is Superior in Terms of Decreasing Respiratory Distress, Postoperative Pulmonary Complications and Hemodynamic Variables When Compared to Conventional Physiotherapy in Postoperative Patients of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery: Randomized Clinical Trial
    Authors: Karolini Reis Branco, Fernanda dos Santos Silveira, Letícia Ferronato, Simone Cristina Jabuonski, Vinícius Serra Peringer, Mariangela Pinheiro de Lima, João Paulo Heinzmann‐Filho, Bruna Eibel
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: Impedância pulmonar como novo marcador de fisioterapia respiratória em adultos com distúrbios ventilatórios obstrutivos
    Authors: Dyovana Silva Dos Santos, Andressa Schenkel Spitznagel, Karolini Reis Branco, Márcio Vinícius Fagundes Donadio, Camila Isabel Santos Schivinski, Daniele Schiwe, João Paulo Heinzmann Filho
    Year: 2019

  3. Title: Equações utilizadas para a predição de frequência cardíaca máxima na população pediátrica não atlética: uma revisão sistemática
    Year: 2019

Maria Lithoxopoulou | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Maria Lithoxopoulou | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Neonatologist -Pediatrics at Faculty of Medicine Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

Dr. Maria Lithoxopoulou is an esteemed Assistant Professor of Paediatrics-Neonatology at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. With over 17 years of clinical experience as a Consultant Neonatologist, she has made significant contributions to neonatal care, focusing on neonatal infections, retinopathy of prematurity, and neonatal nutrition. She holds a Ph.D. in Neonatal Infections and an MBA in Health Administration, showcasing a blend of clinical, research, and administrative expertise. Her research is widely recognized, with 27 published articles, 79 citations, and a Scopus h-index of 5. She has collaborated with various national and international researchers to improve neonatal healthcare outcomes. Her contributions extend beyond neonatology to include ophthalmology, pediatric nutrition, and maternal health, demonstrating a broad and interdisciplinary research approach. Dr. Lithoxopoulou is fluent in Greek and English, with strong technical skills in Microsoft Office and data analysis. Her dedication to academia and research makes her a key figure in advancing neonatal healthcare practices. She is committed to improving neonatal treatment protocols, optimizing drug delivery for preterm infants, and reducing neonatal complications through evidence-based research. With a passion for both clinical and academic excellence, she continues to impact neonatology and pediatrics significantly.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Maria Lithoxopoulou has a strong academic background in medicine and healthcare management. She earned her Degree in Medicine from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Faculty of Medicine, Greece, in 1994, which laid the foundation for her career in pediatrics and neonatology. She later obtained a License to Practice in Paediatrics in 2003, allowing her to specialize in neonatal care. To further advance her expertise, she pursued a Ph.D. in Neonatal Infections, focusing on Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription in Neonatal Infection, which she completed in 2012 at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. In addition to her medical training, she obtained an MBA in Health Administration (2017), which equipped her with the necessary skills to manage and lead healthcare units effectively. She later acquired a Medical Specialty in Neonatology after passing rigorous exams. Her multifaceted education combines clinical, research, and administrative expertise, enabling her to contribute significantly to neonatal medicine, hospital management, and academic research. Dr. Lithoxopoulou’s commitment to education and continuous learning has allowed her to excel in both research and patient care, making her a leading figure in the field of pediatric neonatology.

Professional Experience

Dr. Maria Lithoxopoulou has a distinguished career in neonatology, with extensive experience in both clinical practice and academic research. She began her professional journey as a Consultant Neonatologist at General Hospital of G. Papageorgiou, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, where she served from 2005 to 2022. During her tenure, she played a critical role in treating preterm and critically ill newborns, optimizing neonatal care protocols, and improving neonatal survival rates. In 2022, she transitioned into academia as an Assistant Professor in Paediatrics-Neonatology at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, where she continues to mentor medical students, supervise research projects, and contribute to cutting-edge neonatal research. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with multidisciplinary teams in pediatric healthcare, focusing on neonatal infections, retinopathy of prematurity, neonatal nutrition, and early neonatal sepsis management. Her expertise extends to hospital administration, research project management, and neonatal pharmacology, allowing her to bridge the gap between clinical care and medical research. Dr. Lithoxopoulou’s contributions have enhanced neonatal treatment protocols, improved screening techniques for neonatal diseases, and shaped the next generation of neonatologists and pediatricians. Her dedication to both patient care and scientific advancement makes her a leading expert in her field.

Research Interests

Dr. Maria Lithoxopoulou’s primary research interests lie in the field of neonatology, with a strong focus on neonatal infections, neonatal ophthalmology, and neonatal nutrition. She has conducted extensive research on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), exploring innovative screening techniques, drug delivery methods, and treatment outcomes. Her work also delves into neonatal sepsis, thrombocytopenia, and the effects of maternal health on neonatal outcomes, providing valuable insights into early disease detection and intervention strategies. In addition, she has a growing interest in neonatal pharmacology, particularly in optimizing drug delivery methods for preterm infants to improve treatment efficacy. Dr. Lithoxopoulou is also involved in research concerning pediatric nutrition and the prevention of neonatal malnutrition, emphasizing the role of maternal education in child growth and development. Her interdisciplinary approach has led her to collaborate with researchers in ophthalmology, public health, and biomedical sciences, broadening the impact of her work beyond neonatology. She is committed to advancing evidence-based practices in neonatal care by developing new clinical guidelines, conducting systematic reviews, and engaging in large-scale neonatal health studies. Her research significantly contributes to improving neonatal healthcare standards worldwide.

Research Skills

Dr. Maria Lithoxopoulou possesses advanced research skills in neonatology, clinical trials, and medical data analysis. She has expertise in study design, statistical analysis, and systematic reviews, allowing her to conduct high-quality, evidence-based research. She is proficient in using Scopus, ORCID, and Google Scholar for literature review and citation tracking. Her research skills include quantitative and qualitative data analysis, with experience in handling clinical datasets and patient records to draw meaningful conclusions. She has conducted randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and meta-analyses, particularly in neonatal ophthalmology, neonatal pharmacology, and neonatal infections. Additionally, she is skilled in scientific writing and publishing, with 27 published papers in peer-reviewed journals. She collaborates with multidisciplinary research teams, contributing to studies that impact neonatal healthcare on a global scale. Dr. Lithoxopoulou is also adept at grant writing and securing research funding, helping to advance her work in neonatology. With strong skills in Microsoft Office, PowerPoint presentations, and online research tools, she effectively communicates her findings at national and international conferences. Her expertise in data interpretation and clinical application makes her a valuable asset to neonatal research and academic medicine.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Maria Lithoxopoulou has received recognition for her contributions to neonatology and medical research. She has been acknowledged for her work in neonatal ophthalmology, particularly in improving screening techniques for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Her research on neonatal infections and thrombocytopenia has been cited as influential in shaping clinical guidelines for neonatal care. Additionally, she has participated in several national and international research projects, earning grants and funding for her innovative studies. Her dedication to neonatology has also been recognized through invitations to speak at international conferences, where she has presented her findings on neonatal pharmacology, neonatal nutrition, and early disease detection in preterm infants. She has contributed to high-impact medical journals and has played a key role in collaborative neonatal research initiatives. While her h-index (5) and citation count (79) are growing, her research continues to gain recognition in the scientific community. Her commitment to advancing neonatal healthcare through cutting-edge research, academic leadership, and clinical excellence makes her a strong candidate for prestigious research awards in pediatrics and neonatology.

Conclusion

Dr. Maria Lithoxopoulou is a highly accomplished neonatologist and researcher with a strong academic background, extensive clinical experience, and a significant research portfolio. Her work in neonatal infections, ophthalmology, and nutrition has led to valuable advancements in neonatal care and treatment protocols. With 27 research publications, a growing citation impact, and numerous contributions to neonatal medicine, she is a leading expert in her field. While she continues to expand her research influence, her commitment to academia, clinical excellence, and medical innovation makes her an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Notes

  • Determination of macronutrient profile and energy composition in human milk via Mid‐Infrared Spectrometer Analysis: An experimental study

    • Authors: Maria Lithoxopoulou, Anastasia Gkampeta, Dimitrios Rallis, Katerina Tzafilkou, Eftychia Drogouti, Christos Tsakalidis
    • Year: 2025
  • A hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography – Tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of phenylephrine in dried blood spots from preterm infants

    • Authors: E. Boutou, C. Virgiliou, A.K. Seliniotaki, M. Lithoxopoulou, A. Mataftsi, N. Ziakas, E. Diamanti, N. Raikos, H. Gika
    • Year: 2022
  • Avoiding use of lid speculum and indentation reduced infantile stress during retinopathy of prematurity examinations

    • Authors: A. Mataftsi, M. Lithoxopoulou, A.K. Seliniotaki, P. Talimtzi, E. Oustoglou, E. Diamanti, V. Soubasi, N. Ziakas, A.-B. Haidich
    • Year: 2022
  • Population-Based Studies in Retinopathy of Prematurity and Screening Criteria Used

    • Authors: Stella Moutzouri, Aikaterini K. Seliniotaki, Maria Lithoxopoulou, Anna-Bettina Haidich, Nikolaos Ziakas, Asimina Mataftsi
    • Year: 2022
  • Clinical chorioamnionitis and histologic placental inflammation: association with early-neonatal sepsis

    • Authors: D. Rallis, M. Lithoxopoulou, S. Pervana, P. Karagianni, I. Hatziioannidis, V. Soubasi, C. Tsakalidis
    • Year: 2021
  • Efficacy and safety of mydriatic microdrops for retinopathy of prematurity screening: an external pilot crossover randomized controlled trial

    • Authors: A.K. Seliniotaki, M. Lithoxopoulou, P. Talimtzi, E. Georgiou, E. Diamanti, N. Ziakas, A.-B. Haidich, A. Mataftsi
    • Year: 2021
  • Potential benefit from the implementation of the Kaiser Permanente neonatal early-onset sepsis calculator on clinical management of neonates with presumed sepsis

    • Authors: I. Kopsidas, N.-M. Molocha, E. Kourkouni, S. Coffin, D. Gkentzi, E. Chorianopoulou, G. Dimitriou, A. Kapetanaki, G. Karavana, M. Lithoxopoulou, et al.
    • Year: 2021
  • Reducing duration of antibiotic use for presumed neonatal early-onset sepsis in Greek NICUs: A “low-hanging fruit” approach

    • Authors: I. Kopsidas, G.-C. Tsopela, N.-M. Molocha, E. Bouza, E. Chorafa, E. Chorianopoulou, V. Giapros, D. Gkentzi, T. Gkouvas, A. Kapetanaki, et al.
    • Year: 2021
  • A neonate with intrauterine growth restriction and pseudo-Bartter syndrome due to severe maternal eating disorder: A case report

    • Authors: E. Babatseva, I. Chatziioannidis, A.A. Tagaraki, D. Tramma, K. Dampala, E. Chatzitoliou, E. Papacharalambous, G. Mitsiakos, C. Tsakalidis, P. Karagianni, et al.
    • Year: 2020
  • Alternative mydriasis techniques for retinopathy of prematurity screening

    • Authors: A.K. Seliniotaki, E. Prousali, M. Lithoxopoulou, S. Kokkali, N. Ziakas, V. Soubasi, A. Mataftsi
    • Year: 2020