Margarita Kilili-Lesta | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Book of Award

Dr. Margarita Kilili-Lesta | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

European University Cyprus | Cyprus

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Margarita Kilili-Lesta's academic journey began at The Grammar School in Nicosia, where she laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to health sciences. Her pursuit of higher education took her from Cyprus College to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, where she double-majored in Communicative Disorders and Psychology with academic distinction, supported by a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship. She advanced her specialization with a Master’s degree in Communicative Disorders: Speech-Language Pathology at San Diego State University, excelling in bilingual research and clinical application. Her scholarly path culminated in a Ph.D. in Public Health from European University Cyprus, where she undertook a nationally recognized study on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

With over two decades of professional experience across the U.S. and Cyprus, Dr. Kilili-Lesta has worked in both academic and clinical capacities. From being a Speech-Language Pathologist in San Diego to teaching Speech-Language Therapy at EUC, she has been a dynamic contributor in multiple roles—educator, clinical supervisor, researcher, and public health advocate. Her contributions at institutions like the Ministry of Education, Sport, and Youth and AKTIdA Autism Support Centre underscore her commitment to inclusive education and community care.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Kilili-Lesta’s research bridges the critical intersection of speech-language pathology, public health, and autism. Her doctoral work led to the development of a parent-report tool for identifying minimally verbal children with ASD—a pioneering initiative for Cyprus. Her scholarly output includes studies on gesture-based early prediction, language development in ASD, and the efficacy of augmentative communication systems. Additionally, she has actively explored the benefits of telepractice, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, transforming therapy delivery and education.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Her excellence has been recognized through numerous awards and scholarships, including the Phi Beta Delta Scholarship, SDSU Memorial Scholarships, and the CASP Fulbright Grant. She has also served in leadership roles, such as Secretary of the Special Education Committee of Nicosia District, representing speech-language pathologists at the ministry level.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Dr. Kilili-Lesta’s influence spans multiple sectors: she trains future therapists, guides families of children with autism, and shapes national screening and intervention tools. Through her affiliation with international associations like ASHA and IALP, and her contribution to the iCommunicate Research Center, her work resonates globally. Her initiatives in telepractice and digital learning have set new standards for accessibility in therapy and education.

🧬 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a growing list of high-impact publications and ongoing collaboration in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies, Dr. Kilili-Lesta is paving the way for enhanced diagnostic accuracy and evidence-based interventions in ASD. Her future endeavors aim to further refine early screening tools, develop inclusive therapy protocols, and promote culturally relevant research methodologies. Her legacy is not only one of academic rigor but also of compassionate service to marginalized populations.

Publications

  • 📄 The Childhood Prevalence, Gender Ratio, and Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Cyprus Using School Report: A Cross-Sectional Study
    Authors: Margarita Kilili-Lesta, Konstantinos Giannakou, Louiza Voniati
    Journal: Advances in Neurodevelopmental Disorders
    Year: 2025

  • 📄 Early Development Score as a Prognostic Factor in Nonverbal/Minimally Verbal Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Matched Case-Control Study in Cyprus
    Authors: Margarita Kilili-Lesta, Konstantinos Giannakou, Louiza Voniati
    Journal: Autism & Developmental Language Impairments
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 The Communication Patterns Between Speech–Language Therapists and Parents/Guardians of Children with Developmental Language Disorders in Private Speech–Language Therapy in Cyprus
    Authors: Louiza Voniati, Spyros Armostis, Margarita Kilili-Lesta, Dionysios Tafiadis, Konstantinos Giannakou
    Journal: Languages
    Year: 2023

  • 📄 Early Gesture as a Predictor of Later Language Outcome for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A Systematic Literature Review
    Authors: Margarita Kilili-Lesta, Louiza Voniati, Konstantinos Giannakou
    Journal: Current Developmental Disorders Reports
    Year: 2022

  • 📄 Speech-Language Therapy Clinical Services, Student Education, and Practical Training in the Time of COVID-19: The Rise of Telepractice, Telesupervision, and Distance Learning in Cyprus
    Author: Margarita Kilili-Lesta
    Journal: Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups
    Year: 2021

 

Shinya Watanabe | Neuroscience | Best Research Award

Published on by Book of Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Shinya Watanabe | Neuroscience | Best Research Award

University of Tsukuba | Japan 

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Shinya Watanabe’s academic journey began at Chiba University’s Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. However, driven by a passion for medicine, he transitioned to the University of Tsukuba, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine in 2005 and later a Ph.D. in Medicine in 2015. His diverse educational pursuits also include a specialized program in Medical Innovation Strategy at Chiba University, reflecting his commitment to integrating clinical expertise with innovative healthcare solutions.

Professional Endeavors 🩺

Dr. Watanabe’s illustrious medical career spans over two decades, marked by extensive hands-on experience across several leading hospitals in Japan. Starting as a resident at Tsukuba University Hospital, he later specialized as a neurosurgeon in institutions like Hitachi General Hospital and Tsukuba Medical Center. His tenure with the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) between 2017 and 2020 saw him influencing drug, device, and regenerative medicine reviews, underscoring his role as a key figure in Japan’s medical regulatory landscape. Currently, he serves as a Lecturer at the University of Tsukuba’s Faculty of Medicine, contributing to both clinical practice and medical education.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Watanabe’s research spans a variety of critical areas, including neurotrauma, cancer treatment, and dementia. His expertise has been certified by prestigious bodies such as the Japan Neurosurgical Society and the Japanese Society of Dementia. A thought leader in his field, Dr. Watanabe has actively developed innovative treatments, such as headache management techniques, and remains a sought-after expert in advancing medical technology and therapeutic strategies.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Watanabe’s exceptional contributions have been celebrated with numerous awards, such as the 12th Nose Award and the Research Encouragement Award from the Japanese Society for Diencephalo-Pituitary Tumors. In 2020, his groundbreaking interdisciplinary work earned him the Joyo Bank Award, highlighting his ability to bridge clinical practice with innovative technologies.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Through his extensive clinical and academic roles, Dr. Watanabe has shaped the practice of neurosurgery and medical device innovation in Japan. His contributions to the PMDA and ARO Council have had far-reaching effects, ensuring that healthcare products meet rigorous safety and efficacy standards. He has also inspired future generations of medical professionals through his dedication to education at the University of Tsukuba.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Dr. Watanabe’s legacy lies in his ability to blend clinical precision with innovation. As a pioneer in interdisciplinary research, he continues to push the boundaries of medical science, ensuring a brighter future for patients worldwide. His ongoing contributions to neuroscience, cancer treatment, and dementia care are set to redefine the standards of modern medicine, establishing him as a beacon of excellence in healthcare. With a career characterized by unwavering dedication and transformative achievements, Assist. Prof. Dr. Shinya Watanabe embodies the spirit of medical innovation and compassion.

 

Publications

📄"A Case of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Complicated with both Infratentorial and Supratentorial Cortical Superficial Siderosis: Novel Imaging Findings on Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Magnetic Resonance Imaging Offering Clues to Pathophysiology"

  • Author: Watanabe, S.; Shibata, Y.; Ishikawa, E.
  • Journal: Neurology International
  • Year: 2024

📄"A Retrospective Cohort Study of Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Vestibular Schwannomas: Comparison of Two Age Groups (75 Years or Older vs. 65–74 Years)"

  • Author: Watanabe, S.; Yamamoto, M.; Aiyama, H.; Akutsu, H.; Ishikawa, E.
  • Journal: Surgical Neurology International
  • Year: 2024

📄"Recent Status of Phase I Clinical Trials for Brain Tumors: A Regulatory Science Study of Exploratory Efficacy Endpoints"

  • Author: Watanabe, S.; Nonaka, T.; Maeda, M.; Arakawa, Y.; Ishikawa, E.
  • Journal: Therapeutic Innovation and Regulatory Science
  • Year: 2024

📄"Empirical Myoelectric Feature Extraction and Pattern Recognition in Hemiplegic Distal Movement Decoding"

  • Author: Anastasiev, A.; Kadone, H.; Marushima, A.; Matsumaru, Y.; Ishikawa, E.
  • Journal: Bioengineering
  • Year: 2023

📄"Efficacy Endpoints in Phase II Clinical Trials for Meningioma: An Analysis of Recent Clinical Trials"

  • Author: Watanabe, S.; Nonaka, T.; Maeda, M.; Arakawa, Y.; Ishikawa, E.
  • Journal: Therapeutic Innovation and Regulatory Science
  • Year: 2023

 

Kyriaki Myrissa | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Book of Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Kyriaki Myrissa | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

St Mary's University | United Kingdom

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Kyriaki Myrissa embarked on her academic journey at the University of Leeds, where she completed her BSc (Hons) in Psychology in 2009. Her early research focused on dietary interventions and their impact on health, which led to her Master’s by Research (MRes) in 2011, studying the effects of increased fiber intake on body composition and appetite control. This foundational work paved the way for her PhD in Psychology, completed in 2016, where she explored the complex interplay of affect, cognition, behavior, and motivation in weight loss and maintenance.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Dr. Myrissa's professional career is marked by her dedication to academia and research. She has held various positions at the University of Leeds, including Research Assistant, Practical Research Demonstrator, and Lecturer. In 2017, she joined St Mary’s University in Twickenham, London, where she currently serves as an Associate Professor in Nutrition, Health & Exercise Sciences. Her role also includes being the Postgraduate Subject Lead and Course Lead for MSc Chronic Disease Management. Her responsibilities extend to teaching, supervision of PhD students, and overseeing postgraduate programs.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Myrissa’s research contributions are both diverse and impactful. Her work primarily focuses on mental health, obesity, neurodevelopmental disorders, and the role of nutrition and physical activity in managing chronic diseases. She has been involved in various research projects, including dietary interventions for children with ADHD, the relationship between age-friendliness and quality of life in older adults, and the motor signature of autism. Her research has been published in numerous journals, contributing valuable insights to the fields of psychology, nutrition, and public health.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Myrissa’s excellence in teaching and research has been recognized through her Fellowships with the Higher Education Academy, including achieving Senior Fellow status in 2023. Her successful research grants and involvement in significant studies, such as the effects of kefir on children with ADHD and the medical events associated with parkrun in the UK, underscore her influence in her field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Myrissa’s work has had a significant impact on the academic and health communities. Her research on weight management, mental health, and neurodevelopmental disorders has contributed to better understanding and management of these conditions. Her role as an educator has influenced a generation of students in the fields of psychology, nutrition, and public health, fostering future leaders and researchers.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

As Dr. Myrissa continues her work at St Mary’s University, her legacy is one of dedication to advancing knowledge in health and nutrition sciences. Her ongoing research and commitment to teaching ensure that she will continue to contribute to her fields, inspiring both her peers and students. Her future endeavors promise to further explore the intersections of mental health, behavior, and nutrition, driving forward the understanding and management of chronic diseases.

 

Publications

📄 Article: Cross-sectional study examining the association between diet quality and the prevalence of anxiety and depression in UK undergraduate students
Author: Myrissa, K., Court, C., Kelaiditi, E.
Journal: Nutrition Bulletin
Year: 2024

📄 Article: Randomised controlled trial of the effects of kefir on behaviour, sleep and the microbiome in children with ADHD: a study protocol
Author: Lawrence, K., Fibert, P., Hobbs, J., Cotter, P.D., Gregory, A.M.
Journal: BMJ Open
Year: 2023

📄 Article: Orthorexia Nervosa: Examining the reliability and validity of two self-report measures and the predictors of orthorexic symptoms in elite and recreational athletes
Author: Myrissa, K., Jackson, L., Kelaiditi, E.
Journal: Performance Enhancement and Health
Year: 2023

📄 Article: Public beliefs and willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines among adults in South-Western Nigeria: A cross-sectional study
Author: Olaoye, I., Ekong, A., Samuel, A., Jacdonmi, T., Gboyega, F.
Journal: AIMS Public Health
Year: 2023

📄 Article: Health Workers’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Reporting Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) in Nigeria: A Cross-sectional Study
Author: Olaoye, I., Fatiregun, A.A., Myrissa, K., Gboyega, F., Stephen, F.
Journal: Journal of Health Research
Year: 2023