Maura Massimino | Neuroscience | Best Research Article Award

Dr. Maura Massimino | Neuroscience | Best Research Article Award

Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei tumori di Milano, Italy

Dr. Maura Rita Maria Massimino is a highly respected Italian pediatric oncologist and the Director of the Pediatric Oncology Unit at Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan. With over three decades of clinical and academic excellence, she has dedicated her career to advancing the care of children with cancer, particularly central nervous system tumors. She is a registered medical professional in Milan and a prolific researcher, having authored over 350 peer-reviewed articles. In addition to clinical leadership, Dr. Massimino is a dedicated educator, teaching pediatric oncology at leading universities in Milan. She is widely recognized for her role in national and international clinical trials and guidelines. Her work extends to writing for Orphanet and consulting with โ€œBest Doctors.โ€ Dr. Massimino continues to shape the future of pediatric oncology through her research, teaching, and compassionate patient care.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Scholar

๐ŸŽ“ Education

Dr. Maura Massimino obtained her MD degree in 1987 from the University of Milan. She further specialized in Hematology in 1991 and Pediatrics in 1995, also from the University of Milan. These strong medical foundations equipped her with deep interdisciplinary expertise vital for pediatric oncology. In addition to her formal medical training, she has pursued continued professional development, earning certifications including GCP (2024), PALS (2023), and BLSD (2024), highlighting her commitment to ongoing learning and up-to-date clinical practices. Dr. Massiminoโ€™s academic development aligns with her strong engagement in both research and patient-centered pediatric care, especially in complex oncological conditions. She also contributes extensively to medical education, serving as a contract professor at various universities such as the University of Milan-Bicocca and the University of Milan since 2010. Her educational journey reflects a life-long commitment to excellence in clinical, academic, and research domains of pediatric oncology.

๐Ÿ’ผ Experience

Dr. Massimino began her career in 1987 as a research fellow at Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori. By 1989, she joined the pediatric oncology staff full-time and, in 2010, rose to become Director of the Pediatric Oncology Unit. She has since led clinical care and research focused on pediatric brain tumors, lymphomas, and thyroid cancers. Her administrative contributions include overseeing hospitalization alignment (DRG) and holding senior leadership in pediatric neuro-oncology since 2006. As a professor, she teaches oncology in multiple Milanese institutions and master’s programs, including psycho-oncology and palliative care. Dr. Massimino also serves as a clinical trial principal investigator in numerous international and phase Iโ€“III studies, ensuring access to cutting-edge treatments. Her consultative and organizational expertise extends to national health policy and academic curricula development. Her impact spans healthcare delivery, research leadership, and academic mentorship in pediatric cancer care.

๐Ÿ… Awards and Honors

Dr. Massimino has earned widespread recognition in pediatric oncology for her clinical and academic contributions. While specific awards are not listed in the CV, her achievements include leading international clinical trials, publishing over 350 peer-reviewed articles, contributing to more than 400 conference presentations, and authoring major textbook chapters in both Italian and English. She is a featured contributor to Orphanet, a globally respected database for rare diseases and orphan drugs. Since 2000, she has held functional leadership roles and has been recognized with high-ranking administrative titles. Dr. Massimino serves as a trusted expert for โ€œBest Doctors,โ€ a global medical network affiliated with Harvard Medical School, signifying her international standing. Her ongoing teaching appointments at prestigious Milan universities and involvement in national and European research networks underscore her dedication to pediatric oncology and her stature as one of the most respected experts in the field.

๐Ÿ”ฌ Research Focus

Dr. Massiminoโ€™s research focuses on pediatric brain tumors, particularly gliomas, medulloblastomas, and ependymomas, as well as lymphomas and thyroid malignancies in children. She is the principal investigator in numerous phase I/II/III international trials exploring novel therapies, including nimotuzumab, vinorelbine, dabrafenib, trametinib, pomalidomide, and ponatinib. Her work prioritizes translational approaches combining targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and precision medicine. She also investigates long-term survivorship outcomes, addressing late effects in pediatric cancer survivors. Her sub-investigator roles include studies on rituximab, afatinib, durvalumab, tazemetostat, and DAY101. As a researcher, she aims to improve diagnosis, safety, and efficacy in pediatric oncology while integrating pharmacogenomics and neuro-oncological insights. Additionally, Dr. Massimino is actively involved in the European Reference Network on Pediatric Cancer. Her research efforts align closely with clinical innovations, ensuring that scientific discoveries lead to meaningful improvements in patient care and survival in pediatric oncology.

โœ… Conclusion

Dr. Maura Rita Maria Massimino stands as a leading figure in pediatric oncology with a remarkable portfolio of clinical research, leadership, and academic mentorship. Her contributions have tangibly shaped treatment protocols for pediatric brain tumors and her work continues to benefit patients globally. Given the quality, originality, and clinical significance of her research output, she is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Best Research Article Award. Her continued engagement in high-impact studies and educational endeavors reinforces her role as a transformative figure in pediatric cancer research.

Publications


1. Title: European standard clinical practice recommendations for newly diagnosed ependymoma of childhood and adolescence
Year: 2025
Authors: Alba Rubio-San-Simรณn et al.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejcped.2025.100227


2. Title: European standard clinical practice recommendations for paediatric high-grade gliomas
Year: 2025
Authors: Elwira Szychot et al.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejcped.2024.100210


3. Title: Dabrafenib and Trametinib for the Treatment of Pediatric and Adolescent Melanoma: Single Center Experience Data From Italian Compassionate Use
Year: 2025
Authors: Stefano Chiaravalli et al.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1002/pbc.31644


4. Title: Ho Preso Un Granchio: The Sitcom Created by Young Patients That Turns the Cancer Journey Into Comedy
Year: 2025
Authors: Andrea Ferrari et al.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1002/pbc.31582


5. Title: MicroRNAs Expression Profile in MN1-Altered Astroblastoma
Year: 2025
Authors: Francesca Gianno et al.
Link: https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13010112


6. Title: Long-term outcome of the Milano-hyperfractionated accelerated radiotherapy strategy for high-risk medulloblastoma, including the impact of molecular subtype
Year: 2025
Authors: Maura Massimino et al.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1093/neuonc/noae189


7. Title: Being diagnosed with a rhabdomyosarcoma in the era of artificial intelligence: Whom can we trust?
Year: 2024
Authors: Carlo Alfredo Clerici et al.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1002/pbc.31256

Oyungoo Badamdorj | Mental Health | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Oyungoo Badamdorj | Mental Health | Best Researcher Award ๐Ÿ†

Dean School of Nursing at Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Mongolia

Prof. Dr. Oyungoo Badamdorj is a distinguished academic and medical education innovator from Mongolia. She earned her Bachelor of Medicine from the National Medical University of Mongolia in 1998, followed by a Masterโ€™s in Medicine (2007) and a PhD in Medicine (2010) from the Health Sciences University of Mongolia. As a Professor and former Dean of the School of Nursing, she has championed transformative initiatives, including curriculum modernization, virtual reality integration, and interprofessional education programs. With 16 authored books, 33 research projects, and expertise in areas like e-learning and mental health, Dr. Badamdorj is a trailblazer in advancing global healthcare education.

Profile

SCOPUS

ORCID

Education ๐ŸŽ“:

Prof. Dr. Oyungoo Badamdorj has a robust educational foundation in medicine and health sciences. She completed her Bachelor of Medicine at the National Medical University of Mongolia in 1998, laying the groundwork for her medical expertise. In 2007, she earned a Master of Science in Medicine from the Health Sciences University of Mongolia, further specializing in medical education. Her academic journey culminated in a PhD in Medicine from the same institution in 2010, where her research focused on medical education and program evaluation. This extensive academic training has positioned her as a leading expert in advancing healthcare education and curriculum development.

Work Experience ๐Ÿ’ผ:

Prof. Dr. Oyungoo Badamdorj has a wealth of experience in medical education and academic leadership. As a Professor at the Health Sciences University of Mongolia since 2018 and an Associate Professor since 2013, she has significantly contributed to advancing medical and nursing education. Her tenure as Dean of the School of Nursing allowed her to spearhead curriculum updates, ensuring alignment with international accreditation standards and global healthcare needs. Additionally, Dr. Badamdorj has led innovative projects integrating virtual reality and e-learning platforms, improving teaching and learning outcomes. Her work in interprofessional education has fostered collaborative healthcare practices, enhancing patient outcomes.

Skills ๐Ÿ”

Prof. Dr. Oyungoo Badamdorj possesses a diverse skill set that underpins her contributions to medical education and healthcare innovation. She excels in curriculum development, accreditation processes, and the implementation of outcome-based education models. Her expertise in faculty development and interprofessional education fosters collaboration and enhances teaching effectiveness. Prof. Badamdorj is proficient in integrating advanced technologies, such as e-learning platforms and virtual reality, into educational practices. Additionally, she has strong leadership, project management, and program evaluation skills, which have driven significant advancements in nursing and allied health education. Her communication and mentorship abilities inspire future healthcare professionals.

Awards and Honors ๐Ÿ†

Prof. Dr. Oyungoo Badamdorj has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to medical education and healthcare innovation. Her notable awards include national and institutional honors for advancing nursing education and interprofessional collaboration in healthcare. As a leader in curriculum development and accreditation, she has received accolades for ensuring alignment with international standards. Her pioneering work in integrating virtual reality and e-learning platforms into medical training has garnered widespread appreciation, highlighting her role in transforming healthcare education in Mongolia. These honors reflect her dedication to improving the quality of education and healthcare delivery.

Research Interests:

Prof. Dr. Oyungoo Badamdorj’s research interests encompass a wide array of topics within medical education and healthcare. She specializes in faculty development, teaching methodologies, blended and e-learning, and curriculum innovation, with a strong emphasis on outcome-based education. Her work in accreditation and nursing education has improved the quality of academic programs in Mongolia. Additionally, she has a keen interest in mental health, leveraging her expertise to address pressing healthcare challenges. Prof. Dr. Badamdorj also pioneers the use of emerging technologies, such as virtual reality, to transform educational experiences and interprofessional collaboration in healthcare.

Conclusionย 

Prof. Dr. Oyungoo Badamdorj exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher through her dedication to innovation, education, and global healthcare improvement. Her integration of advanced technologies, curriculum reforms, and culturally sensitive programs underscores her transformative impact on healthcare education. With her extensive academic contributions and leadership, Dr. Badamdorj is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

๐Ÿ“š Publicationsย 

Association Between Psychological Distress and Coping Styles in Family Caregivers of People with Intellectual Disability or Chronic Mental Disorder in Mongolia

  • Authors: Delgermaa Sendmaa, Namuun Ganbaatar, Orgilmaa Regzedmaa, Erdenetuul Nuden, Enkhtuul Chuluun, Sundui-Yanjmaa Luvsangenden, Gankhuyag Gochoosuren, Dolgorjav Myagmarjav, Oyungoo Badamdorj, Khishigsuren Zuunnast, et al.
  • Journal: Nursing Reports
  • Publication Date: November 15, 2024
  • DOI: 10.3390/nursrep14040257
  • ISSN: 2039-4403

Effects of Outdoor Air Pollution on Hospital Admissions from Cardiovascular Diseases in the Capital City of Mongolia

  • Authors: Nandin-Erdene Bayart, Gavin Pereira, Christopher M. Reid, Sylvester Dodzi Nyadanu, Oyungoo Badamdorj, Bazarzagd Lkhagvasuren, Krassi Rumchev
  • Journal: Atmospheric Pollution Research
  • Publication Date: October 2024
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.apr.2024.102338

Medical Education in Mongolia: Challenges and Opportunities

  • Authors: Oyungoo Badamdorj, Ryenchindorj Erkhembayar, Bayarbat Gombo, Baljinnyam Baatarpurev, Dorjbalam Gansukh, Basbish Tsogbadrakh, Oyuntsetseg Sandag, Tserendagva Dalkh, Sumberzul Nyamjav
  • Journal: Medical Teacher
  • Publication Date: September 2024
  • DOI: 10.1080/0142159X.2024.2336077

The Effect of Outcome-Based Education on Clinical Performance and Perception of Pediatric Care of the Third-Year Nursing Students in Mongolia

  • Authors: Khishigdelger Lkhagvaa, Basbish Tsogbadrakh, Gankhuyag Gochoosuren, Oyungoo Badamdorj, Azadeh Stark
  • Journal: PLOS ONE
  • Publication Date: June 11, 2024
  • DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305298

Association Between Short-Term Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution and Mortality for Cardiovascular Diseases in Ulaanbaatar City, Mongolia

  • Authors: Nandin-Erdene Bayart, Krassi Rumchev, Christopher M. Reid, Sylvester Dodzi Nyadanu, Oyungoo Badamdorj, Gavin Pereira
  • Publisher: SSRN
  • Year: 2023
  • DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.4597999
  • ISSN: 15565068

 

Davide Arillotta | Mental health | Best Researcher Award

Dr Davide Arillotta | Mental health | Best Researcher Awardย 

Resident doctor at University of Florence; University of Hertfordshire,Italy

Davide Arillotta, MD, is a dynamic psychiatrist from Torino, Italy, with a strong passion for life sciences and mental health. Throughout his career, Dr. Arillotta has focused on substance use disorders, clinical toxicology, and the intersection of mental health and addiction. His work spans across clinical settings, research, and harm reduction initiatives, making significant contributions to both local and international communities.

professional profileย 

scopus

 

๐ŸŽ“ Education

Dr. Arillotta holds a Masterโ€™s Degree in Medicine and Surgery (2014) from the University of Turin, Italy, where he also completed his psychiatric residency (2015-2019) at the University of Catania. He is currently enrolled in a Masterโ€™s programme in Cognitive Psychotherapy at Centro Clinico Crocetta, Turin. His academic journey includes several international experiences, including studies in Coimbra, Portugal, and research placements in the UK.

๐Ÿ’ผ Work Experience

Dr. Arillotta has served as a Clinical Toxicology Resident at the University of Florence since November 2021. He has extensive experience as a psychiatrist with various institutions, including NHS Trusts in Italy. He also worked as a freelance psychiatrist and collaborated on harm reduction projects in leisure environments. His clinical work spans general psychiatry, dual diagnosis, and substance use disorders.

๐Ÿง  Skills

ย Dr. Arillotta possesses expertise in clinical toxicology, psychiatric care, and cognitive psychotherapy. He is skilled in the application of harm reduction strategies, tapering/switching protocols for chronic pain, and has significant experience in research and clinical trials related to novel psychoactive substances.

๐Ÿ† Awards and Honors

ย Dr. Arillotta has been recognized for his outstanding contributions, winning the poster competition at the “New Challenges in Psychiatry” conference in Rome (2019) and securing a scholarship for a development cooperation project in Burkina Faso (2015).

๐Ÿ‘ฅ Memberships and Affiliations

He is affiliated with the Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse, and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit at the University of Hertfordshire, UK. Additionally, he was a delegate at the European Forum of Psychiatric Trainees (EFPT) in 2018.

๐Ÿ“š Teaching and Mentorship

Dr. Arillotta has contributed to the training of medical students and psychiatric trainees through workshops and scientific courses. His teaching is enhanced by his diverse clinical and research experiences, particularly in the fields of neuroethics and toxicology.

๐Ÿ”ฌ Research Focus

Dr. Arillottaโ€™s research is centered on the psychopathological dimensions of substance abuse, biomarkers associated with cravings, and the adverse health effects of novel psychoactive substances like MDPHP. He is also exploring the potential impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on mental health and addiction.

publication

  • “Exploring the Potential Impact of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Substance Use, Compulsive Behavior, and Libido: Insights from Social Media Using a Mixed-Methods Approach”
    • ๐Ÿ—“ Year: 2024
    • ๐Ÿ“œ Journal: Brain Sciences
    • ๐Ÿ”ฌ Topic: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and their impact on substance use, compulsive behavior, and libido.
    • ๐ŸŒ Method: Mixed-Methods and Social Media Analysis
  • “Exploring the Association Between Suicidal Thoughts, Self-Injury, and GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Weight Loss Treatments: Insights from Pharmacovigilance Measures and Unmasking Analysis”
    • ๐Ÿ—“ Year: 2024
    • ๐Ÿ“œ Journal: European Neuropsychopharmacology
    • ๐Ÿ”ฌ Topic: Suicidal thoughts, self-injury, and GLP-1 receptor agonists in weight loss treatments.
    • ๐Ÿšจ Focus: Pharmacovigilance and risk analysis
  • “Clinical Manifestations and Analytical Reports for MDPHP Acute Intoxication Cases”
    • ๐Ÿ—“ Year: 2024
    • ๐Ÿ“œ Journal: Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis
    • ๐Ÿ”ฌ Topic: MDPHP acute intoxication and clinical manifestations.
    • ๐Ÿ’‰ Focus: Toxicology and substance abuse
  • “Semaglutide as a Possible Calmodulin Binder: Ligand-Based Computational Analyses and Relevance to Its Associated Reward and Appetitive Behaviour Actions”
    • ๐Ÿ—“ Year: 2024
    • ๐Ÿ“œ Journal: Scientia Pharmaceutica
    • ๐Ÿ”ฌ Topic: Semaglutide, calmodulin binding, and its effects on reward and behavior.
    • ๐Ÿง  Focus: Computational analysis and psychopharmacology
  • “GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Related Mental Health Issues; Insights from a Range of Social Media Platforms Using a Mixed-Methods Approach”
    • ๐Ÿ—“ Year: 2023
    • ๐Ÿ“œ Journal: Brain Sciences
    • ๐Ÿ”ฌ Topic: Mental health effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists.
    • ๐ŸŒ Method: Social media and mixed-methods analysis
  • “Psilocybin for Depression: From Credibility to Feasibility, Whatโ€™s Missing?”
    • ๐Ÿ—“ Year: 2023
    • ๐Ÿ“œ Journal: Pharmaceuticals
    • ๐Ÿ”ฌ Topic: Psilocybin as a treatment for depression.
    • ๐Ÿ„ Focus: Psychedelics and mental health
  • “Covid-19 Pandemic Impact on Substance Misuse: A Social Media Listening, Mixed Method Analysis”
    • ๐Ÿ—“ Year: 2021
    • ๐Ÿ“œ Journal: Brain Sciences
    • ๐Ÿ”ฌ Topic: Impact of Covid-19 on substance misuse.
    • ๐Ÿฆ  Focus: Social media analysis and substance use during the pandemic