Francesco De Francesco | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Francesco De Francesco | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Medical Surgeon | Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria delle Marche | Italy

Dr. Francesco De Francesco is an accomplished clinician-scientist specializing in plastic, reconstructive, and regenerative surgery, with a strong academic background in stem cell biology and tissue engineering. His career reflects a balance of clinical expertise, laboratory research, and teaching, enabling him to translate scientific discoveries into therapeutic innovations. His work has focused extensively on adipose-derived stem cells, extracellular vesicles, and their applications in regenerative medicine, particularly in joint and soft tissue repair. Alongside his research, he has played an important role as a medical executive, advancing clinical practices in reconstructive and hand surgery. He has also contributed to academic training, fostering knowledge transfer and supporting the next generation of medical professionals. Recognized with national scientific qualifications and specialization, his profile reflects leadership, dedication, and significant impact in his field. His measurable research influence is demonstrated through Scopus with 3,218 citations, 122 documents, and an h-index of 30.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

1.  V. Tirino, V. Desiderio, F. Paino, A. De Rosa, F. Papaccio, M. La Noce, and F. De Francesco, “Cancer stem cells in solid tumors: an overview and new approaches for their isolation and characterization,” The FASEB Journal, vol. 27, no. 1, pp. 13–24, 2013.

2. V. Tirino, V. Desiderio, R. d’Aquino, F. De Francesco, G. Pirozzi, U. Galderisi, and F. Papaccio, “Detection and characterization of CD133+ cancer stem cells in human solid tumours,” PLoS One, vol. 3, no. 10, p. e3469, 2008.

3. A. Graziano, R. d’Aquino, M. G. C. D. Angelis, F. De Francesco, A. Giordano, and G. Papaccio, “Scaffold’s surface geometry significantly affects human stem cell bone tissue engineering,” Journal of Cellular Physiology, vol. 214, no. 1, pp. 166–172, 2008.

4. F. De Francesco, G. Ricci, F. D’Andrea, G. F. Nicoletti, and G. A. Ferraro, “Human adipose stem cells: from bench to bedside,” Tissue Engineering Part B: Reviews, vol. 21, no. 6, pp. 572–584, 2015.

5. F. De Francesco, V. Tirino, V. Desiderio, G. Ferraro, F. D’Andrea, M. Giuliano, and F. Papaccio, “Human CD34+/CD90+ ASCs are capable of growing as sphere clusters, producing high levels of VEGF and forming capillaries,” PLoS One, vol. 4, no. 8, p. e6537, 2009.

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

Yong Su Lim | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yong Su Lim | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Gachon University College of Medicine, South Korea

Dr. Yong-Su Lim is a tenured professor of Emergency Medicine at Gachon University College of Medicine, specializing in critical care and toxicology. Born in South Korea on January 30, 1970, he is married with children. He currently holds multiple key leadership roles, including Vice Chairman of the ASK Simulation Center and Director of the Telemedicine Team at Gachon University Gil Medical Center. Over his extensive career, Dr. Lim has been a prominent figure in South Korean emergency medicine, recognized for his expertise in clinical practice, research, and education. He has earned the respect of his peers through his unwavering commitment to advancing the field, focusing on both patient care and medical education. He is dedicated to integrating advanced healthcare technologies, including telemedicine, to improve the quality and accessibility of emergency medical services in South Korea.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Yong-Su Lim’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to both medical practice and research. He obtained his M.D. from Yeungnam University College of Medicine in 1994, a foundational achievement in his career. His passion for emergency medicine and clinical excellence led him to pursue further studies at Kyung Hee University, where he earned both a Master’s degree (2003) and a Ph.D. (2007). These advanced degrees have equipped him with the necessary skills to conduct meaningful research in emergency medicine, critical care, and toxicology. Dr. Lim’s educational background is complemented by numerous fellowships, including specialized training at Seoul National University Hospital and the University of Hawaii’s John A. Burns School of Medicine, allowing him to expand his expertise in telemedicine and medical simulation.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lim’s professional career spans more than two decades in various clinical and academic roles. After completing his internship at Yeungnam University Medical Center, he served as a resident at Gachon University Gil Medical Center, eventually progressing to become an assistant professor in 2003. Over the years, he advanced through the academic ranks, becoming an associate professor and later a full professor, while also heading the emergency room and intensive care unit. His leadership in clinical care is complemented by his involvement in medical simulation and telemedicine, areas in which he has pioneered advancements. As the director of the U-Healthcare Center, Dr. Lim has actively worked to integrate telemedicine technologies into clinical practice, aiming to revolutionize patient care and access to medical expertise in emergency situations.

Research Interests

Dr. Lim’s research interests are centered on the intersection of emergency medicine, critical care, toxicology, and telemedicine. His work explores various aspects of patient management in acute care settings, focusing on improving diagnostic techniques and therapeutic strategies. His contributions to the field include studies on electrical injuries, poisoning, and head trauma, as well as the clinical analysis of emergency medical systems. Dr. Lim has also been instrumental in advancing telemedicine, aiming to enhance the delivery of emergency medical care through remote consultations. His research has resulted in numerous publications in respected journals, underscoring his commitment to evidence-based practice and his role in shaping the future of emergency medical services.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Yong-Su Lim has received several accolades in recognition of his contributions to the field of emergency medicine and medical education. He has been honored for his leadership in medical simulation and his pioneering work in telemedicine, which has contributed to improving healthcare accessibility. In addition to his academic awards, he has been recognized by his peers for his active role in various medical societies, including the Korean Society of Emergency Medicine, where he has served in leadership positions. His commitment to clinical excellence and research has earned him the respect of both national and international colleagues, further cementing his position as a distinguished figure in the medical community.

Conclusion

Overall, Yong-Su Lim is certainly a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. He has made significant contributions to the field of emergency medicine and critical care, particularly in the areas of telemedicine, clinical procedures, and toxicology. His leadership roles and extensive publication record demonstrate his commitment and influence in the medical research community. To further strengthen his candidacy, emphasizing the impact and novelty of his research in clinical practice and expanding his collaborations across disciplines would be beneficial.

Publications Top Noted

Author(s):
Jang, Jae-ho; Cho, Jinseong; Lim, Yong-Su; Choi, Jae-yeon; Yang, Hyukjun

Year: 2022

Title: Disaster Response to a Mass Casualty Incident in a Hospital Fire by Regional Disaster Medical Assistance Team: Characteristics of Hospital Fire

Journal: Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness

Citations: 7 citations