Matteo Palermo | Neuroanatomy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Matteo Palermo | Neuroanatomy | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Matteo Palermo, Policlinico A. gemelli, Italy.

Matteo Palermo is an emerging medical scholar from Italy currently pursuing his medical degree at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome. With a dual high school diploma from Italy and the USA, he demonstrated academic brilliance early on, which has been consistently recognized through multiple national and institutional awards. His professional engagements span prestigious neurosurgical institutions, including the Mayo Clinic and the Carlo Besta Institute. Matteo has already authored multiple peer-reviewed research publications in top-tier neurological and neurosurgical journals, focusing on hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension, glioma imaging, and spinal hypotension treatment. His work reflects a commitment to clinical excellence, research depth, and global collaboration.

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Matteo Palermo’s academic journey began with a deep commitment to excellence from a young age. Born and raised in Gravina in Puglia, Italy, he demonstrated a strong affinity for science and mathematics during his formative years at Liceo Scientifico Giuseppe Tarantino, earning a high school diploma in 2021. Matteo expanded his educational exposure internationally by attending Edgar High School in Wisconsin, USA, in 2018–2019, where he obtained a U.S. high school diploma and participated in national-level mathematics competitions, securing 29th place out of 50 participants. His early achievements laid a robust foundation for his future in medicine, strengthened by recognition from the Italian Ministry of Education and supported by a €16,000 academic grant.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Currently pursuing a degree in medicine at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome (2021–2027), Matteo has actively immersed himself in professional experiences that transcend academic learning. His early exposure to clinical environments began with prestigious internships and observerships in neurosurgery at globally renowned institutions. In 2024, he joined the Mayo Clinic in Rochester under the mentorship of Dr. Giuseppe Lanzino. His long-term neurosurgical internship at the Carlo Besta Institute in Milan, led by Dr. Francesco Prada, further reinforced his dedication to neurological sciences. Matteo also trained under Dr. Alessandro Olivi at Gemelli Hospital in 2025, engaging directly with surgical innovation and patient care.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Matteo’s passion for neurosurgery is reflected in his impressive contributions to academic research. He has co-authored several high-impact studies, often in collaboration with experts like Dr. Trevisi, Dr. Prada, and Dr. Sturiale. His work delves into intricate neurological conditions such as idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and idiopathic intracranial hypertension, particularly in pregnancy—addressing both clinical and surgical dimensions. His research on advanced neuroimaging techniques, including superb microvascular ultrasound in gliomas, stands at the frontier of neuro-oncological diagnostics. His recent meta-analyses, including one on targeted versus nontargeted epidural blood patches for spontaneous intracranial hypotension, showcase a methodological precision and a deep commitment to evidence-based practice.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic journey, Matteo has received numerous honors that highlight his consistent excellence. He was awarded the Best Medical Student Award at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, and 2025), an acknowledgment of both academic prowess and professional dedication. His distinction as the Faculty Representative of the Medicine and Surgery degree course in 2025 demonstrates his leadership qualities and the trust vested in him by peers and faculty alike. Earlier accolades, such as the Italian Student Excellence Award by the Ministry of Education and Excellence Student Awards during high school, further underline a pattern of sustained high achievement.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Matteo’s work in neurosurgery has begun to make a visible impact not only through scholarly publications but also through his collaborative roles in high-profile research institutions. His systematic reviews and responses in respected journals like Neurosurgical Review, European Journal of Neurology, and Acta Neurochirurgica have contributed to shaping current conversations around neurointerventions and treatment strategies. As a global research intern and contributor, Matteo’s growing influence is expanding beyond national borders, signaling a future as a thought leader in neuroclinical research.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions

Even at this early stage, Matteo Palermo is carving out a promising legacy in the field of neuroscience and neurosurgery. His clear focus on integrating research, clinical application, and surgical excellence positions him as a future pioneer in the treatment of complex neurological conditions. With a solid base in both European and American medical systems and mentorship under globally respected neurosurgeons, Matteo’s future contributions are likely to influence neurosurgical standards, patient outcomes, and cross-disciplinary innovations for years to come.

🌟 Vision for Medical Research

Driven by a mission to bridge gaps between clinical neurosurgery and translational neuroscience, Matteo’s research vision is both ambitious and impactful. His ongoing focus on refining diagnostic and therapeutic techniques—particularly through systematic analysis and technological innovation—reflects a strong alignment with the future of precision medicine. Whether advancing shunt technologies for hydrocephalus or exploring maternal-fetal outcomes in neurological conditions, his commitment to enhancing the quality of care and knowledge dissemination is at the heart of his scholarly identity.

Publication

  • Advancing treatment strategies for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus: a systematic review on studies comparing ventricular and lumbo-peritoneal shunts
    M. Palermo, G. Trevisi, F. Signorelli, F. Doglietto, A. Albanese, A. Olivi, …
    2025

 

  • Targeted Versus NonTargeted Epidural Blood Patch for Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
    M. Palermo, C.L. Sturiale, S. D’Arrigo, G. Trevisi
    2025

 

  • Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review on Clinical Course, Treatments, Delivery and Maternal‐Fetal Outcome
    M. Palermo, G. Trevisi, S. D’Arrigo, C.L. Sturiale
    2025

 

🏁 Conclusion

Matteo Palermo exemplifies the qualities of a future leader in the field of neurosurgery and neuroscience research. His early achievements, international exposure, and advanced research contributions mark him as an exceptional talent in academic medicine. With a solid foundation, continual academic distinction, and a vision for translational impact, Matteo is poised to make lasting contributions to the medical and scientific community. His trajectory strongly supports his candidacy for recognition, including honors such as the Best Researcher Award.

Elissavet Kollia | Developmental Neuroscience |Best Researcher Award

Ms. Elissavet Kollia | Developmental Neuroscience |Best Researcher Award 

Ms. Elissavet Kollia, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.

Ms. Elissavet Kollia is a distinguished pediatrician and researcher specializing in pediatric neurology. With an exceptional academic background, she graduated from the Medical School of the Democritus University of Thrace and pursued advanced postgraduate studies in Clinical Pediatrics and Nursing-Research. Her extensive clinical training, from pediatrics specialization to her current role at Konstantopouleio General Hospital “Agia Olga,” has solidified her expertise in child healthcare. Additionally, her research focuses on movement disorders in pediatric patients with early-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, contributing valuable insights to the field. Her dedication extends beyond clinical practice, as seen in her voluntary medical work and commitment to mentoring young professionals.

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

From an early age, Elissavet Kollia demonstrated exceptional academic abilities, graduating from the 4th General Lyceum of Agia Paraskevi with an outstanding general grade of “excellent 19.2.” Her passion for medicine led her to the Medical School of the Democritus University of Thrace, where she was admitted in September 2007. With dedication and perseverance, she successfully earned her medical degree in July 2013, achieving a commendable grade of “very good 8.33.” Shortly after, she obtained her license to practice as a doctor in Greece and later in Munich, Germany, reflecting her international medical competence.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Ms. Kollia’s professional journey has been marked by extensive clinical training and hands-on experience in pediatrics. She began her specialization at the Pediatric Clinic of the General Hospital of Karpenisi from June 2014 to October 2016. Her commitment to healthcare extended beyond hospitals as she served as a rural doctor at the Primary Health Care Center of Agios Nikolaos, Evrytania, actively participating in emergency care at the General Hospital of Karpenisi. Her expertise deepened when she became a scientific associate at the Pediatric Neurology Unit of the First Pediatric Clinic of the National University of Athens. She then pursued her residency in pediatrics at the First University Pediatric Clinic – Children’s Hospital “Agia Sophia” from November 2018 to May 2022, ultimately obtaining her specialty title in June 2022. Currently, she is serving as a pediatrician at the Konstantopouleio General Hospital “Agia Olga,” continuing her mission to provide excellent pediatric care.

📝 Contributions and Research Focus

Ms. Kollia’s dedication to medical research has significantly contributed to the field of pediatric neurology. Her postgraduate studies in “Clinical Pediatrics and Nursing-Research,” completed with an exceptional grade of “Excellent 9.31,” strengthened her academic foundation. Her ongoing doctoral dissertation at the National Kapodistrian University of Athens focuses on movement disorders in pediatric patients with early-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, a field crucial for advancing neurological care in children. Her research efforts have led to an upcoming publication in the European Journal of Paediatric Neurology, further establishing her as a valuable contributor to the scientific community.

🌟 Accolades and Recognition

Ms. Kollia’s unwavering commitment to medicine has been recognized through her outstanding academic achievements and professional milestones. From excelling in her graduate and postgraduate studies to securing prestigious residency and specialization opportunities, she has consistently demonstrated excellence in her field. Her acceptance into renowned institutions and her involvement in vital research projects underline her credibility and expertise in pediatric neurology.

💪 Impact and Influence

Beyond her clinical and academic contributions, Dr. Kollia has actively participated in voluntary medical programs, extending her expertise to underserved populations. She contributed to emergency case observations at the Children’s Hospital “Agia Sophia” and participated in medical landing programs in remote islands, showcasing her dedication to public health. Her influence extends to mentoring young medical professionals, sharing her knowledge, and contributing to the medical community’s growth.

💡 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a passion for advancing pediatric neurology, Dr. Kollia continues to shape the future of medical research and patient care. Her work in understanding movement disorders in children with epileptic encephalopathy holds the potential to improve diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in pediatric neurology. As she progresses in her career, her contributions to both clinical practice and scientific research will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the medical community and the lives of the children she treats.

 

Publication

  • Title: The genetic etiology in cerebral palsy mimics: the results from a Greek tertiary care center
    Authors: V Zouvelou, D Yubero, L Apostolakopoulou, E Kokkinou, M Bilanakis, …
    Year: 2019

 

  • Title: MOTOR PHENOTYPING IN A GREEK COHORT OF PATIENTS WITH NEONATAL AND INFANTILE ONSET DEVELOPMENTAL AND EPILEPTIC ENCEPHALOPATHY
    Authors: E Kollia, E Kokkinou, C Outsika, G Koltsida, V Zouvelou, A Vontzalidis, …
    Year: 2025

 

🌟 Conclusion

Ms. Kollia’s journey exemplifies the perfect blend of academic excellence, professional expertise, and compassionate patient care. Through her research and clinical endeavors, she continues to advance the understanding and treatment of pediatric neurological disorders. Her unwavering dedication to improving children’s health positions her as a leading figure in pediatric medicine. With her vision for excellence and continued contributions, she is set to leave a lasting impact on the medical field, inspiring future generations of healthcare professionals.

Zhiyong Hou | Trauma related neurological injury | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Zhiyong Hou | Trauma related neurological injury | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhiyong Hou Hebei Medical University Third Hospital China

Dr. Zhiyong Hou is a distinguished medical professional and leader in the field of orthopedics, holding multiple prestigious positions including Dean of the Surgery Department and President of the 3rd Hospital at Hebei Medical University. With an extensive academic background, he has published over 200 scientific articles, authored numerous patents, and contributed to multiple medical journals as an editor and reviewer. Dr. Hou has received significant national recognition, including various awards for his contributions to medical science and technology. His involvement in medical societies and educational programs highlights his commitment to advancing the field of orthopedics, particularly in trauma and innovative surgical techniques.

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🏥 Professional Status

Dean of Surgery Department, Hebei Medical University.President of the 3rd Hospital of Hebei Medical University.Professor of Hebei Medical University.Senior Director of Orthopedic Department of the 3rd Hospital of Hebei Medical University.Professor of Changjiang Scholar Program from the National Ministry ofEducation.Candidates for the National Million Talents Project.State Council Special Allowance Expert.Director of the Orthopedic Minimum Invasive Device Education Research Center from the National Ministry of Education.Adviser for Post Doctoral, Doctoral, and Master Degree Programs at Hebei Medical University.Director of National Advanced Professional and Technical Team.Director of Innovative Orthopedic Team of Hebei Medical University.Extraordinary Talent of Hebei Province.Outstanding Professional of Hebei Province

🩺 Medical Societies

Vice Chairman of the Chinese Medical Association Trauma Division.Vice Chairman of the Chinese Medical Association Orthopedic Division.

👩‍⚕️ Youth Committee

Chairman of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association Orthopedic Division Youth Committee.Member of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA).Standing Committee Member of the SICOT World Congress Chinese TraumaDivision.Orthopaedic Fellow at the Geisinger Medical Center in the US

🏆 Distinctions

Second Prize of National Technical Invention Award.Two Second Prizes of National Science and Technology Progress Award.Three First Prizes for Scientific and Technological Progress in Hebei Province.Top 10 National Best Young Orthopedic Professionals of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association.Young Experts with Outstanding National Contributions.Wu Jieping-Paul Janssen Medical & Pharmaceutical Award.National May 1st Labour Day Medal.Three First Prizes for the Chinese Medical Science and Technology Award.Awarded National Key R&D Plan Funding.Awarded General Projects of the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

📖 Scientific Journals

Associate Chief Editor of the Journal of Chinese Traumatic Orthopaedics.Associate Editor of BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.Associate Editor of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology.Associate Editor of the Frontiers in Surgery.Lead Guest Editor of Biomed Research International.Member of the Reviewer Committee for various international journals.

📚 Academic Research and Publications

Published more than 200 SCI-indexed scientific journals, with 96 as First Author or Corresponding Author.More than 20 patents as First Inventor.Published 10 books as Chief Editor or Associate Editor

📚 Publications

  • Title: Medial compartment decompression by fibular osteotomy to treat medial compartment knee osteoarthritis: a pilot study
    Authors: ZY Yang, W Chen, CX Li, J Wang, DC Shao, ZY Hou, SJ Gao, F Wang, …
    Year: 2015

 

  • Title: Intertrochanteric femur fracture treatment in Asia: what we know and what the world can learn
    Authors: SM Chang, ZY Hou, SJ Hu, SC Du
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Delayed flap reconstruction with vacuum-assisted closure management of the open IIIB tibial fracture
    Authors: Z Hou, K Irgit, KA Strohecker, ME Matzko, NC Wingert, JG DeSantis, …
    Year: 2011

 

  • Title: Acute compartment syndrome: Cause, diagnosis, and new viewpoint
    Authors: J Guo, Y Yin, L Jin, R Zhang, Z Hou, Y Zhang
    Year: 2019

 

  • Title: Epidemiologic characteristics of traumatic fractures in elderly patients during the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 in China
    Authors: Y Zhu, W Chen, X Xin, Y Yin, J Hu, H Lv, W Li, X Deng, C Zhu, J Zhu, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Epidemiologic characteristics of traumatic fractures during the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in China: A retrospective & comparative multi-center study
    Authors: H Lv, Q Zhang, Y Yin, Y Zhu, J Wang, Z Hou, Y Zhang, W Chen
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Negative-pressure therapy versus conventional therapy on split-thickness skin graft: a systematic review and meta-analysis
    Authors: Y Yin, R Zhang, S Li, J Guo, Z Hou, Y Zhang
    Year: 2018

 

  • Title: Treatment of pertrochanteric fractures (OTA 31-A1 and A2): long versus short cephalomedullary nailing
    Authors: Z Hou, TR Bowen, KS Irgit, ME Matzko, CM Andreychik, DS Horwitz, …
    Year: 2013

 

  • Title: Locked plating of periprosthetic femur fractures above total knee arthroplasty
    Authors: Z Hou, TR Bowen, K Irgit, K Strohecker, ME Matzko, J Widmaier, …
    Year: 2012

 

  • Title: A occult and regular combination injury: the posterior malleolar fracture associated with spiral tibial shaft fracture
    Authors: Z Hou, Q Zhang, Y Zhang, S Li, J Pan, H Wu
    Year: 2009

 

  • Title: Treatment of interprosthetic fractures of the femur
    Authors: Z Hou, B Moore, TR Bowen, K Irgit, ME Matzko, KA Strohecker, WR Smith
    Year: 2011

Conclusion

Dr. Zhiyong Hou’s impressive credentials and achievements underscore his pivotal role in the advancement of orthopedic medicine in China and beyond. His leadership positions and active participation in various medical societies demonstrate his dedication to fostering innovation and excellence in healthcare. Through his research, mentorship, and contributions to medical literature, Dr. Hou continues to influence the future of orthopedic practices, making a lasting impact on patient care and medical education.