Yoana Dyankova | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yoana Dyankova | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Doctor at Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria

Dr. Yoana Dyankova Dyankova is a dedicated pediatrician and clinical researcher specializing in pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. She holds a PhD in Pediatrics from the Medical University “Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov” in Varna, Bulgaria, where she also serves in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at St. Marina University Hospital. Her research focuses primarily on celiac disease in children, particularly its impact on bone health, as demonstrated in her dissertation and multiple peer-reviewed publications, including a recent article in Nutrients (2025). Dr. Dyankova is an active member of national pediatric and gastroenterology associations and contributes to both clinical care and academic development. Fluent in English and German, she engages with the international scientific community and remains committed to translating research into improved patient outcomes. With her growing publication record, clinical integration, and academic rigor, she stands out as a promising young researcher in the field of pediatric medicine.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar
ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Yoana Dyankova Dyankova began her academic journey at the Vasil Drumev High School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics in Veliko Tarnovo, graduating in 2010. She pursued her medical degree at the Medical University “Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov” in Varna, Bulgaria, completing it in 2016. From 2017 to 2022, she specialized in pediatrics, gaining comprehensive clinical training and board certification in the field. In 2018, she enrolled in a PhD program in Pediatrics at the same university, where she focused her research on celiac disease and its effects on pediatric bone health. She successfully defended her dissertation in 2023. Dr. Dyankova has since continued to develop professionally by pursuing further specialization in pediatric gastroenterology starting in July 2025. Her academic path demonstrates strong commitment, discipline, and a focused interest in improving pediatric healthcare through both clinical practice and rigorous scientific research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Dyankova has cultivated a balanced career combining clinical excellence and academic growth. Since January 2022, she has served as a pediatrician at the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of the First Children’s Clinic, St. Marina University Hospital in Varna. Her role in the PICU places her at the frontline of managing critically ill children, often requiring advanced decision-making and teamwork in high-pressure situations. Prior to this, she completed a five-year pediatric residency, gaining hands-on experience in general pediatrics. Her transition into the subspecialty of pediatric gastroenterology as of July 2025 marks a strategic shift aligned with her research interests. Parallel to her clinical duties, Dr. Dyankova was engaged in doctoral studies for five years, conducting original research and contributing to academic publications. Her dual role as both a clinician and researcher enhances her ability to apply scientific findings directly to patient care, making her a valuable asset in modern pediatric medicine.

Research Interest

Dr. Dyankova’s primary research interests lie at the intersection of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition, with a concentrated focus on celiac disease (CD). Her doctoral thesis explored bone health in children with CD, addressing the metabolic and developmental complications arising from malabsorption and chronic inflammation. Beyond celiac disease, she has expressed research interest in related gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as well as broader issues within pediatric intensive care. Her work is characterized by clinical relevance and translational value, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific research and bedside care. Publications in both national and international journals reflect her dedication to improving diagnostic and treatment protocols in children with chronic gastrointestinal conditions. Dr. Dyankova continues to build her research portfolio by participating in collaborative studies, focusing on early diagnosis, nutritional interventions, and long-term management outcomes in affected pediatric populations, ensuring a direct impact on clinical practice.

Award and Honor

While specific named awards are not listed in the biography, Dr. Yoana Dyankova Dyankova has received notable academic and professional recognition through her successful completion of a PhD and multiple scientific publications. Her research has been published in reputable journals such as Nutrients, indicating peer validation and relevance of her work. She is an active member of the National Pediatric Association and the community of Pediatric Gastroenterologists in Bulgaria, reflecting her standing in the professional community. These memberships signify not only recognition by peers but also her continued contribution to scientific discussions and advancements in pediatric healthcare. Her role in high-stakes clinical environments like the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit further demonstrates trust in her medical competence and decision-making. With growing academic output and clear specialization in a crucial field, Dr. Dyankova is well-positioned to earn future distinctions and leadership roles in pediatric research and clinical practice at both national and international levels.

Conclusion

Dr. Yoana Dyankova Dyankova exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated clinician-scientist, balancing hands-on pediatric care with high-impact academic research. With a solid foundation in pediatrics and a focused interest in gastroenterology and nutrition, she has steadily advanced her career through both clinical excellence and scholarly contribution. Her doctoral work on bone health in children with celiac disease highlights her ability to address complex, real-world health challenges through evidence-based research. Now working in a pediatric intensive care setting and continuing her subspecialty training, Dr. Dyankova is expanding her expertise and influence in critical areas of child health. Her publications, professional affiliations, and academic achievements underscore a deep commitment to the advancement of pediatric medicine. While still early in her career, her trajectory suggests strong potential for leadership in research and healthcare. She is a promising candidate for recognition such as the Best Researcher Award and is well-poised for continued professional impact.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Presentation of Childhood Newly-Diagnosed Diabetes During the COVID-19 Pandemic – Is There a Change?

    • Authors: Y. Bazdarska, V. Iotova, T. Karamfilova, Y. Dyankova, T. Stefanova, …

    • Journal: Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, Vol. 23, A202

    • Year: 2021

  1. Title: Delayed Bone Age and Osteoprotegerin Levels in Pediatric Celiac Disease: A Three-Year Case–Control Study

    • Authors: R. Pancheva, Y. Dyankova, N. Rasheva, K. Koleva, V. Iotova, M. Dzhogova, M. Fiore, M. Georgieva

    • Journal: Nutrients, Vol. 17 (14), Article 2295

    • Year: 2025

  1. Title: Macrophage Activation Syndrome After COVID-19 Infection in a Patient with Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

    • Authors: M. Boyadzhiev, B. Varbanova, M. Belcheva, P. Shivachev, D. Krumova, Y. Dyankova, …

    • Journal: Scripta Scientifica Medica, Vol. 55(1), pp. 27–31

    • Year: 2023

  1. Title: Bone Health in Children with Celiac Disease (PhD Dissertation)

    • Author: Y. Dyankova

    • Database: PQDT-Global (ProQuest Dissertations)

    • Year: 2022

  1. Title: New Developments in the Diagnostics of Celiac Disease in Children

    • Authors: Y. Dyankova, M. Georgieva, N. Rasheva, K. Koleva

    • Journal: Journal of the Union of Scientists-Varna. Medicine and Ecology Series, Vol. 24(1)

    • Year: 2019

  1. Title: Bacterial Pulmonary Colonization with Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Cystic Fibrosis Patients

    • Authors: M. Nikolova, Y. Dyankova, I. Hristov, M. Georgieva

    • Journal: Izvestia Journal of the Union of Scientists-Varna. Medicine and Ecology Series

    • Year: 2019

Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Surgery at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

Dr. Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis is a multidisciplinary medical professional with dual degrees in Medicine (MD) and Pharmacy (PharmD), complemented by a Master’s in Clinical and Industrial Pharmacology. He is currently a PhD researcher in Plastic Surgery at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and teaches in the postgraduate MSc program in Colorectal Surgery at the University of Thessaly. His research portfolio includes over a dozen peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, covering areas such as oncology, immunotherapy, diagnostic imaging, and surgical outcomes. He has also presented at major international conferences across Europe. With clinical training in top hospitals in Greece and France, and fluency in English and French, Dr. Karakousis brings a global perspective to his work. His recent research momentum, coupled with academic and teaching contributions, positions him as a promising early-career researcher making impactful strides in medical science and healthcare.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis holds an impressive academic background with dual professional degrees. He earned his Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) in 2010 and his Doctor of Medicine (MD) in 2017 from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH). He further completed a Master of Science (MSc) in Clinical and Industrial Pharmacology, with a focus on Clinical Toxicology, also from AUTH. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Plastic Surgery at Papageorgiou General Hospital, under AUTH’s School of Medicine. His education also includes a European academic exchange through the Erasmus+ Program at Université de Paris. He holds both medical and pharmaceutical licenses from relevant Greek professional bodies. Dr. Karakousis is also multilingual, with certifications in English (C2, University of Michigan) and French (B2, DELF), which enhance his ability to collaborate internationally. His continuous academic development reflects a strong commitment to both scientific inquiry and clinical excellence.

Professional Experience

Dr. Karakousis has cultivated a dynamic professional career across medical, pharmaceutical, and academic domains. He currently teaches in the postgraduate MSc program in Colorectal Surgery at the University of Thessaly, where he contributes to the academic development of future surgeons. His clinical experience spans several prestigious institutions, including AHEPA University Hospital, Ippokrateio Hospital, and hospitals in Paris through externships at Hôpital Saint-Louis and Hôpital Paris Saint-Joseph. His earlier work includes service as a pharmacist in community pharmacies and military medical service at Greek military hospitals. He has also completed a surgical internship and practical training in both hospital and community pharmacy settings. This breadth of experience has shaped him into a well-rounded clinician and academic, capable of bridging pharmaceutical knowledge with surgical and medical practice. His active engagement in multiple clinical environments enhances his ability to apply research insights directly into patient care.

Research Interest

Dr. Karakousis has a broad and evolving set of research interests focused primarily on oncology, surgery, immunology, pharmacology, and diagnostic imaging. His recent research includes systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and case studies in gastrointestinal stromal tumors, medullary thyroid carcinoma, and metastatic colorectal cancer, emphasizing clinical relevance and evidence-based care. He has shown particular interest in cancer immunotherapy, mRNA vaccines, and tumor microenvironment modulation, indicating a forward-looking approach to precision medicine. His work on metaplastic and neuroendocrine breast cancers, as well as rare tumor types, reflects a commitment to addressing under-researched clinical challenges. Additionally, his contributions to diagnostic methodology, such as PET-CT and MRI-endosonography, highlight a keen interest in enhancing preoperative assessment and surgical planning. His multidisciplinary background enables him to pursue translational research that connects pharmacological principles with surgical outcomes and immunological mechanisms, making his academic pursuits both innovative and clinically grounded.

Award and Honor

Dr. Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis has earned recognition through multiple academic and professional achievements, although formal awards are not extensively detailed in the available record. His selection as a presenter at high-level international conferences—including the Joint EWMA-GNEAUPP 2025 Conference in Spain, the 11th Conference of ESES in Turkey, and the 16th Greek-Cypriot Surgical Congress in Cyprus—reflects peer acknowledgment of the quality and significance of his research. He was also a featured presenter at the Scientific Conference of Greek Medical Students, demonstrating early engagement with academic excellence. His role as a lecturer in a postgraduate surgical program further indicates institutional recognition of his expertise. Though not explicitly listed, his numerous peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals and international collaborations suggest growing influence and respect in the medical research community. These achievements collectively support his eligibility for further awards, including the Best Researcher Award nomination.

Conclusion

Dr. Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis exemplifies the qualities of a promising, multidisciplinary medical researcher. With a robust academic foundation in both medicine and pharmacy, he combines clinical expertise with scientific rigor. His professional journey includes hands-on roles in pharmacy, surgery, teaching, and international externships, highlighting his versatility and dedication to improving healthcare. His recent surge in impactful research—covering oncology, diagnostics, pharmacology, and immunotherapy—demonstrates a forward-thinking, evidence-based approach that resonates with current global healthcare priorities. As a multilingual academic with international experience, he is well-positioned for collaboration and leadership in cross-border research initiatives. While his career is still in a growth phase, his academic trajectory, research contributions, and teaching involvement underscore his potential to make lasting contributions to medical science. Based on his achievements and promise, Dr. Karakousis is a compelling candidate for recognition such as the World Top Scientists Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Notes

  • Multifocal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs) of the Small Intestine in Patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF-1): Meta‑Analysis and Systematic Review of the Literature

    • Authors: Stylianos Mantalovas; Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis; Christina Sevva; Panagiota Roulia; Stavros Savvakis; Georgios Anthimidis; Konstantinos Papadopoulos; Vasiliki Magra; Nikolaos Varsamis; Christoforos S. Kosmidis; et al.

    • Year: 2025

  • The Efficacy of Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Scan (PET CT) in the Diagnosis of Local Recurrence and Metastases in Surgical Patients with Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta‑Analysis of the Last 5 Years (2020–2024)

    • Authors: Konstantinos Papadopoulos; Ioannis Iakovou; Stylianos Mantalovas; Christoforos S. Kosmidis; Stiliani Laskou; Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis; Christina Sevva; Marios Dagher; Panagiota Roulia; Ismini Kountouri; et al.

    • Year: 2024

  • Streamline Flow of the Portal Vein Affects the Distribution of Colorectal Cancer Metastases: Clinical Reality or Just a Belief? A Systematic Review and Meta‑Analysis

    • Authors: Stavros Savvakis; Vasileios I. Lagopoulos; Stylianos Mantalovas; Eleni Paschou; Periklis Kopsidas; Christina Sevva; Alexandros Vasileios Karakousis; Eleni Gigi; Isaak Kesisoglou

    • Year: 2024

  • A 78‑Year‑Old Man with Elastofibroma Dorsi Presenting as a Left Subscapular Mass

    • Authors: Christoforos S. Kosmidis; Konstantinos Vlassopoulos; Chrysi Maria Mystakidou; Vasiliki Theodorou; Alexandros Vasileios Karakousis; Nikolaos Iason Katsios; Fedra Louloudopoulou; Anna Andreadi; Paris Pentousis; Stylianos Mantalovas; et al.

    • Year: 2024

  • Neuroendocrine Breast Carcinoma: Interesting Images of an Underdiagnosed Entity

    • Authors: Christoforos Kosmidis; Kassiani Boulogeorgou; Panagiota ___; Marios Dagher; Georgios Anthimidis; Georgios Petrakis; Charilaos Koulouris; Stylianos Mantalovas; Styliani Laskou; Vasiliki Magra; et al.

    • Year: 2024

  • Immune‑Specific and Tumor‑Dependent mRNA Vaccines for Cancer Immunotherapy: Reprogramming Clinical Translation into Tumor Editing Therapy

    • Authors: Theodora Katopodi; Savvas Petanidis; Eirini Grigoriadou; Doxakis Anestakis; Charalampos Charalampidis; Ioanna P. Chatziprodromidou; George Floros; Panagiotis Eskitzis; Paul Zarogoulidis; Charilaos Koulouris; et al. (includes V. A. Karakousis)

    • Year: 2024

  • Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma – A Rare Subtype of Breast Cancer that Poses a Challenge to Treatment: 2 Case Reports and Review of the Literature

    • Authors: Vasiliki Magra; Sofia Baka; Eleni Georgakoudi; Vasiliki Theodorou; Chrysi Maria Mystakidou; Evanthia Papadopoulou; Alexandros Karakousis; Petrina Miltiadous; Georgios Anthimidis; Christoforos Kosmidis

    • Year: 2024

  • Tumor Cell Metabolic Reprogramming and Hypoxic Immunosuppression: Driving Carcinogenesis to Metastatic Colonization

    • Authors: Theodora Katopodi; Savvas Petanidis; Doxakis Anestakis; Charalampos Charalampidis; Ioanna Chatziprodromidou; George Floros; Panagiotis Eskitzis; Paul Zarogoulidis; Charilaos Koulouris; Christina Sevva; et al.

    • Year: 2024

  • Acute Gangrenous Appendicitis in a 70‑Year‑Old Patient with Multiple Myeloma

    • Authors: (Not fully listed); Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis included.

    • Year: 2024

  • Preoperative Assessment of Perianal Fistulas with Combined Magnetic Resonance and Three-Dimensional Endoanal Ultrasound: A Prospective Study

    • Authors: Nikolaos Varsamis; Christoforos Kosmidis; Grigorios Chatzimavroudis; Fani Apostolidou Kiouti; Christoforos Efthymiadis; Vasilis Lalas; Chrysi Maria Mystakidou; Christina Sevva; Konstantinos Papadopoulos; Georgios Anthimidis; et al.

    • Year: 2023

  • Immunohistochemical Femoral Nerve Study Following Bisphosphonates Administration

    • Authors: Vasileios Alexandros Karakousis; Danai Liouliou; Aikaterini Loula; Nikoleta Kagianni; Eva‑Maria Dietrich; Soultana Meditskou; Antonia Sioga; Theodora Papamitsou

    • Year: 2020

  • Potential Drug–Drug Interactions in Prescriptions Dispensed in Community Pharmacies in Greece

    • Authors: Anna Chatsisvili; Ioakeim Sapounidis; Georgia Pavlidou; Eudoxia Zoumpouridou; Vasileios‑Alexandros Karakousis; Marios Spanakis; Lefteris Teperikidis; Ioannis Niopas

    • Year: 2010