In 2023, many authors bring new findings, practical information on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to breast diseases to our journal. Their articles published with us have received very well feedback in the field and stimulate a lot of discussions and new insights among the peers.

Hereby, we would like to highlight some of our outstanding authors who have been making immense efforts in their research fields, with a brief interview of their unique perspectives and insightful views as authors.

Outstanding Authors (2023)

B. Bersu Ozcan, Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, USA

Ray Ka Wai Hung, Department of Surgery, North District Hospital, Hong Kong, China

Masahiro Sugimoto, Keio University, Japan

Emanuela Esposito, National Cancer Institute of Naples “Fondazione Pascale”, Italy

Anne Herman Mosebo & Karen-Lise Madsen, Odense University Hospital, Denmark

Eduardo G. González, Instituto de Oncología “Ángel H. Roffo” Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina

Elisabeth Lauritzen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark

Assaf A. Zeltzer, Rambam Health Care Campus, Israel

Karan Grover, Case Western Reserve University, USA

Christian Bonde, Holte Plastikkirurgi, Denmark

Ishith Seth, Peninsula Health, Australia

Michael Co, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China

Nicolai Lassen Frid, University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Lucy M. De La Cruz, Georgetown University Hospital, USA

Yana Kost, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, USA

B. Bersu Ozcan

B. Bersu Ozcan, MD, is a Research Fellow at Breast Imaging Division at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, the US. Dr. Ozcan received her medical degree from Hacettepe University, Turkey, in June 2021. She moved to the US in December 2021 to pursue her research career in Diagnostic Radiology. She was involved in pre-clinical laboratory research during her medical education and performed visiting internship rotations in Georgetown and Harvard University. She has presented multiple studies in national and international conferences. Currently, she is actively leading a machine learning pipeline in the breast imaging division. Her current research interests include optoacoustic imaging, cost-effectiveness analysis, breast cancer disparity research, and assessing neoadjuvant chemotherapy response in breast cancer patients. Connect with Dr. Ozcan on Twitter or LinkedIn.

Dr. Ozcan thinks academic writing plays a pivotal role in the field of science, as it serves as a means for researchers to share their findings and effectively communicate their ideas to both fellow scientists and the broader public. This crucial process not only contributes to the development of medical knowledge and practice but also fosters research transparency, accountability, and accuracy. Furthermore, when an individual engages in academic writing, he or she has the opportunity to learn from existing studies and research related to their specific subject matter. By immersing oneself in the scholarly literature, we can gain valuable insights, expand our understanding, and build upon the work of others. This accumulation of knowledge serves as a foundation for the continuous development of science.

“Avoiding biases in academic writing is crucial for maintaining objectivity and credibility,” Dr. Ozcan highlights. “To achieve this, it is important to approach the research and writing process with an open mind, that is, free from personal beliefs or preconceptions. Diverse sources should be utilized during the literature review to incorporate different perspectives and avoid tunnel vision. This will also help present a balanced discussion, consider alternative viewpoints and conflicting evidence, and furthermore promote intellectual honesty and objectivity.” While writing the manuscript, a valuable strategy to detect and address biases is to adhere to reporting guidelines specific to the field of study; that provides structured frameworks that help identify potential pitfalls and ensure comprehensive and unbiased reporting of research findings. Seeking peer feedback is another good strategy to help identify biases or gaps in reasoning, according to Dr. Ozcan.

Data sharing is prevalent in scientific writing in nowadays era. Yet, Dr. Ozcan believes it is crucial to acknowledge that certain types of data, such as patient data, are highly sensitive and confidential. “Patient privacy is a paramount concern in medical research, and strict ethical guidelines are in place to protect individuals' personal information. Releasing patient data publicly, even after anonymizing, can compromise privacy. Therefore, in most cases, patient data cannot be made publicly available due to privacy and ethical restrictions,” emphasizes she.

Being asked of the reason for choosing to publish on ABS, Dr. Ozcan directly points out that ABS offers a rigorous peer-review process, which can ensure the quality and integrity of the published work. “This aligns perfectly with my own commitment to produce high-quality research. ABS also provides an excellent opportunity to share my findings with its wide audience of researchers, surgeons, clinicians, and healthcare professionals in the field,” says she.

(by Masaki Lo, Brad Li)

Ray Ka Wai Hung

Dr. Ray Ka Wai Hung graduated from the Chinese University of Hong Kong in 2011. He completed his training in General Surgery in the New Territories East Cluster in Hong Kong. Immediately after his general surgical training, he focuses his work on management of breast diseases. He is also the Honorary Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery, Chinese University of Hong Kong. His area of interest is on the management of breast cancer, particularly in incorporating different new technologies into the surgery. He is actively participating in various clinical research. His publication “High Ki-67 proliferation index and lack of chemotherapy are associated with reduced overall survival in patients with triple negative breast cancer: a retrospective cohort in a major breast centre in Hong Kong” was awarded “The Best Original Paper of the Year 2021” by the College of Surgeons of Hong Kong.

ABS: Firstly, can you share with us the process of coming up with the topic of your paper? Any specific reasons behind?

Dr. Hung: Thanks to the breast cancer screening program, breast cancer is diagnosed at an earlier stage nowadays and some of them may not be palpable. Accurately localizing the tumor is the key to success in excising the tumor with adequate margin. Wire guided localization was the gold standard but it is associated with wire-related morbidity such as patients’ discomfort and surgical difficulties. Wireless localization technique helps to solve a lot of problems of the wire guided technique. Multifocal breast cancer is not an uncommon condition. It is not an absolute contraindication to breast conserving surgery but there are only scanty case reports in the literature illustrating the best surgical technique. This case report serves to provide evidence on the use of wireless localizing technique to accurately localize two tiny non-palpable breast cancers. 

ABS: What are the difficulties encountered in preparing the paper?

Dr. Hung: Case selection and recruitment are the most difficult part on preparing this paper. Writing a case report is not easy as we need to convey the message by a single case. The case selected must be very interesting to raise the awareness of the readers.

ABS: Academic writing often involves evidence synthesis. Can you share tips on selecting the appropriate evidence for synthesis and analysis? What do authors have to bear in mind during the process?

Dr. Hung: All research is based on assumptions. It is a process of proving your assumption correct. Therefore, making rational assumptions is the first and most important part on deciding the topic of a research. As an ordinary person, we have limits and cannot save all of our patients. As a researcher, we always question on our limits. If you assume that there is a better way to treat a patient, prove it with your own evidence.

ABS: Finally, data sharing is prevalent in scientific writing in recent years. Do you think it is crucial for authors to share their research data? And why?

Dr. Hung: I agree that data sharing is very important in scientific research. Sometimes, we may need a very large sample size to power up our study. By sharing the data from different researchers, we can gather the information in a quicker way. In addition, the diversity of patient population makes the result more generalizable.

(by Masaki Lo, Brad Li)

Masahiro Sugimoto

Dr. Masahiro Sugimoto is currently a professor at Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University, Japan. He obtained his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Science, and Engineering from Waseda University. He worked as a software engineer at Mitsubishi Space Company and obtained a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics from Keio University and another Ph.D. in dental science from the School of Dentistry, Kanagawa Dental University. He joined the Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, Kyoto University, as a Lecturer and founded SalivaTech Ltd. He was a professor at Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical University. His research topics include system biology, metabolomics, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence. He published various research articles regarding data-driven science, especially using omics data. Connect with Dr. Sugimoto on Twitter @mshrsgmt and LinkedIn. A list of his published work can be found on ResearchGate.

Talking about the significance of academic writing, Dr. Sugimoto believes that writing research articles is included as an essential part of the research activity. In his opinion, review comments from academic experts are quite variable which can effectively improve the quality of a manuscript. In addition, he highlighted the importance of Conflict of Interest (COI) disclosure, for COI discloses the possible bias in research.

Speaking of what authors should bear in mind during the preparation of a paper, Dr. Sugimoto says, “We always have to describe the logical story and define the uniqueness of the research.”

(By Hailing Lian, Brad Li)

Emanuela Esposito

Dr. Emanuela Esposito is a consultant breast surgeon at the National Cancer Institute of Naples “Fondazione Pascale”, Italy. She graduated from the University of Naples. Then she moved to New York for an Internship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC). During her training in General Surgery, she attended Clinical and Research Fellowship in London at Guy’s and St. Thomas Hospital, where she published several papers on Intraoperative Radiotherapy for breast cancer. She obtained a Ph.D. degree in Newer Biomedical and Surgical Treatments. She got a Master’s degree in Prevention, Genetic and Management of Hereditary Breast Cancer at the University of Milan. She focuses hundred percent of her work on the management of breast diseases from research to clinical practice. Her area of interest is new technologies, clinical trials in surgery, and translational research. She is a Principal Investigator in various clinical studies. She has published several papers on breast cancers and is a member of some Scientific Editorial Boards. She is an active member of Gender Equality in Health.

Dr. Esposito summarizes that the key elements for a good academic paper include an attractive title; well-structured abstract which clearly summarizes the research; an updated literature review with both milestone and recent relevant papers; and noteworthy results.

In Dr. Esposito’s view, a good author should focus on the topic, and be a great expert in the field of his/her research; should be clear in order to communicate with readers without extra effort; and should pay attention to the details of his/her manuscript.

Dr. Esposito emphasizes that institutional review board (IRB) approval is pivotal in order to promote the safety and welfare of human participants in the study. Moreover, she explains that earnest and serious journals will ask for IRB approval before publishing any paper involving human beings.

“I would like to encourage young researchers and academic writers to nurture their passion ceaselessly. Putting pen to paper is the first step to immortalizing our thoughts and achievements,” says Dr. Esposito.

(By Hailing Lian, Brad Li)

Anne Herman Mosebo & Karen-Lise Madsen

( Anne Herman Mosebo)

(Karen-Lise Madsen)

Dr. Anne Herman Mosebo and Dr. Karen-Lise Madsen graduated from the University of Southern Denmark in 2021 and 2022, respectively. They conducted their master’s thesis at the Department of Plastic Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Denmark in 2020. After further processing, the thesis was published in Annals of Breast Surgery earlier this year. Their main research area is aspects of breast surgery, especially regarding Paget’s Disease of the Nipple (PD). Dr. Mosebo is currently working on a retrospective study regarding the diagnostic accuracy of PD.

When conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis, Dr. Mosebo and Dr. Madsen find the process of quality assessment of the included articles to be at times difficult. Making conclusions upon the findings of the previous research is a balancing act as it is necessary to remain objective and avoid jumping to misconclusions.

Speaking of the qualities an author should possess, Dr. Mosebo and Dr. Madsen summarize that a good author should possess qualities such as a critical mind and the ability to be well-structured. Besides, research requires attention to detail. The thoroughness of observations, data collection, and documentation is essential to ensure the accuracy and validity of the findings. Last but not least, researchers should aim for high ethical standards and integrity in their work.

To allocate time to write papers, Dr. Mosebo and Dr. Madsen indicate that specific time allocated in one's work calendar gives the best terms for good research. Though this is not always the case. Therefore, being structured and planning research ahead of time are of utmost importance. Allocating time to write a paper requires effective time management and prioritization. Also, setting clear and realistic goals are a good motivator. Lastly, they believe authors should try to create a conducive writing environment when prioritizing writing a paper.

Dr. Mosebo and Dr. Madsen highlight that Conflict of Interest (COI) disclosure is essential when publishing a scientific paper. They explain that COI has the potential to influence research, which includes how studies are designed as well as how data are collected and reported. This influence is crucial to avoid, whether it is due to the investigator’s personal, financial, or other COIs. As the nature and magnitude of the conflict can vary a lot, transparency is important. This provides the best terms for critical reading. Both researchers and readers of scientific papers should have COI in mind when reading a scientific paper.

(By Hailing Lian, Brad Li)

Eduardo G. González

Eduardo G. González, MD, is former Head of the Department of Mastology at the Ángel H Roffo Institute and Professor of Oncological Surgery at the University of Buenos Aires. He is a principal investigator at the Roffo Institute of Protocols in Breast and Reconstructive Surgery of the Oncoplastic Breast Consortium (Basel-Switzerland). He is a tutor of the training scholarships in Oncological and Reconstructive Breast Surgery of the National Cancer Institute of Argentina, former Director of the Mastology Unit of the Ángel H. Roffo Institute accredited by the Argentine Society of Mastology and of the biannual Mastology Fellowship program and Oncoplastic Surgery of the Department. He is an honorary member of the Argentine Society of Mastology, president-elect of the Latin American Federation of Mastology (FLAM), and an active member of the Argentine Medical Association, Argentine Association of Surgery, and the Argentine Society of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Besides, Dr. González is a member of the Oncoplastic Breast Consortium (Basel-Switzerland) and Director of GOLAM (Latin American Oncoplastic Group). Dr. González is a specialist in General Surgery, Oncological Surgery, Mastology, and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is currently Former President of the Argentine Society of Mastology and was President of the XIV National and International Congress of Mastology 2019. His field of interest focuses on the prevention and risk reduction of breast cancer, optimization of surgical treatment and prevention of its sequelae, and oncoplastic and reconstructive surgery.

In Dr. González’s opinion, the most commonly encountered difficulties in academic writing are the lack of undergraduate training in writing articles, monographs, etc., and later, depending on the institutions where they work, they will have more opportunities to write and publish as long as their superiors train and motivate them.

To ensure one’s writing is critical, Dr. González suggests doing a correct practice, documenting it, observing and analyzing the experience and errors, and turning them over to publications advised by colleagues with more experience.

Dr. González expresses that everything about academic writing is fascinating. He explains, “Seeing reflected years of experience, creativity, successes and failures in clinical practice or basic research is what one leaves to future generations of what has been traveled in the exercise of the profession.”

(By Hailing Lian, Brad Li)

Elisabeth Lauritzen

Elisabeth Lauritzen, MD, has worked in plastic and reconstructive surgery since 2018 at Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark. In 2019, she started a clinical Ph.D. project with Professor Tine Engberg Damsgaard that focuses on optimizing breast reconstructive procedures using an imaging modality that can visualize real-time intraoperative tissue perfusion. It is hypothesized that intraoperative assessment of tissue perfusion applying Indocyanine green angiography (ICG-A) using the SPY-Elite® System could minimize short- and long-term postoperative complications after breast reconstruction following breast cancer. The key issues in the project are to provide breast cancer patients with evidence-based new treatment modalities, to prevent short- and long-term effects of breast cancer treatment, and to add significant knowledge on breast reconstruction in terms of complications, late effects, and quality of life after breast reconstruction. Dr. Lauritzen has presented their research at several international conferences, such as the World Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery (WSRM), the European Association of Plastic Surgeons (EURAPS), the Scandinavian Association of Plastic Surgeons (SCAPLAS), and the Barcelona Breast Meeting (BBM), etc.

In Dr. Lauritzen’s opinion, new ideas provide new knowledge. Academic writing is about getting one’s research out and sharing it with others. Good academic writing is essential to meticulously explain the reason, the process, and most importantly, the methods, from which others can recreate data and results, and show findings. Negative results are just as important as positive results and peculiar findings are also significant to report.

When planning a project, Dr. Lauritzen expresses that it is essential to brainstorm with colleagues and collaborators to make a good plan, focusing on how to get and analyze data, and how to minimize any potential biases that may occur during the process. If a research project is well planned and there is a detailed protocol for every step, many of the challenges one experiences will already be taken into account.

Lastly, Dr. Lauritzen highlights the importance of data sharing. She explains that it is crucial to share new or ongoing projects with peers and the public, which can not only increase the colleague’s knowledge about one’s research, but also get meaningful feedback from collaborators, the public, and patients. Data sharing in medical conferences etc. is necessary because it is inspirational and has the potential to offset new projects with widened perspectives. She adds, “If nobody shares ideas or research, we would not have gotten so far in medical science as we are today. More heads work better than one – a new idea or project can always be better and improved by new perspectives.”

(By Hailing Lian, Brad Li)

Assaf A. Zeltzer

Prof. Assaf Zeltzer is the Director of the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Rambam Health Care Campus in Haifa, Israel, which is affiliated to the Technion University. He is a graduate of the University of Antwerp with honors (Belgium, 2003), and also graduated from the University of Ghent (Belgium) in Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery with high honors (2011). He is a holder of a Ph.D. in medical sciences from the Free University of Brussels (VUB Belgium) since 2018. Most of Prof. Zeltzer’s work is in the field of complex breast surgeries and reconstructions; treatments and surgeries for lymphedema after cancer treatments; and trauma, congenital lymphedema, and functional nose surgeries. His research areas are in the field of lymphedema, breast reconstruction, fat tissues, and development of new devices in the field of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

In Prof. Zeltzer’s view, a good academic paper on plastic reconstructive surgery should be original, with a rigorous research design that addresses clinical relevance. It should introduce novel ideas or approaches while demonstrating a unique perspective or presenting new findings. The paper's objectives and hypotheses should be clearly stated, outlining the specific research questions it aims to answer. A comprehensive literature review should be included, identifying gaps in current knowledge and explaining how the study fills those gaps. Ethical considerations should be adhered to, with appropriate approvals and informed consent obtained. The paper should employ robust data analysis using appropriate statistical methods, presenting results clearly with visual aids when necessary. A thoughtful discussion of the results, their implications, and potential applications in clinical practice should be provided, supported by the presented data. The conclusions should offer insights for future research directions. Last but not least, a good academic paper undergoes rigorous peer review by experts in the field to ensure quality and validity. By following these guidelines, a well-crafted academic paper on plastic reconstructive surgery can contribute to the advancement of knowledge and improve patient care.

To prepare a paper for publication in a medical journal, Prof. Zeltzer gives the following advice: make sure the paper is of relevance to the readers of the target journal; learn journal guidelines and adhere to the specific formatting and submission requirements of the target journal; ensure ethical conduct, obtaining necessary approvals and maintaining patient confidentiality; clearly provide transparent reporting of methods, results, and statistical analyses; and contextualize the study, interpret findings, and address limitations. Besides, he suggests using concise language, avoiding jargon, and providing rigorous references, and effective figures and tables. In the end, it is significant to thoroughly proofread the manuscript and seek critical feedback. By considering these points, authors can increase their chances of publication in a medical journal, effectively sharing their research with the medical community.

Talking about the reasons to publish in Annals of Breast Surgery (ABS), Prof. Zeltzer summarizes three aspects. First of all, the journal attracts a readership composed of breast surgery professionals, including surgeons, oncologists, and researchers. Publishing in this journal allows authors to reach a targeted audience that is highly interested in advancements and studies related to breast surgery. Secondly, ABS may have a reputation for publishing high-quality research in the field. Authors may choose this journal to enhance the visibility and credibility of their work within the breast surgery community. Lastly, the journal's scope and coverage align with the specific research topic or findings that authors wish to communicate. If their work addresses breast surgery techniques, breast cancer management, reconstructive surgery, or related areas, ABS may be a suitable publication venue.

Lastly, Prof. Zeltzer highlights the importance for authors to follow reporting guidelines, such as STROBE, PRISMA and CARE, when preparing manuscripts for medical journals. He explains that these guidelines provide standardized frameworks for reporting research methods, results, and conclusions, which ensure consistency and transparency, and improve the quality of manuscripts. Following reporting guidelines enhances research reproducibility, facilitates peer review, and increases the chances of manuscript acceptance.

(By Hailing Lian, Brad Li)

Karan Grover

Karan Grover is currently completing a dedicated fellowship in Minimally Invasive Bariatric and Foregut Surgery at University Hospitals/Case Western Reserve University under Drs. Leena Khaitan and Mujjahid Abbas. His experiences working with the underserved and malnourished urban population in residency in New Brunswick, New Jersey inspired him to pursue the surgical care of patients with obesity. He has completed a fellowship in surgical education at Columbia University Medical Center which prepared him for a career in teaching at all levels of medical education and conducting surgical education research. He has participated in and conducted several qualitative research projects focused on understanding surgical expertise. He will continue his work as an attending surgeon for a private practice bariatric surgery group with academic affiliations at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Connect with Dr. Grover on Linkedin.

There are three criteria Dr. Grover uses to evaluate a good academic paper. Firstly, the writing is clear and concise. Secondly, the methodology should achieve results that are trustworthy. Lastly, the discussion can contextualize the results within the broader landscape of knowledge already known on the topic.

In Dr. Grover’s view, the only way to stay up-to-date is to stay up-to-date. This means discussing with colleagues the latest developments at work or at conferences. This also means building time in one’s workday to review the literature regularly. Unfortunately, there is no shortcut around this.

Dr. Grover believes that data sharing is generally a good idea. It may allow researchers to better understand the context of the data and identify any potential errors that may skew interpretation. However, privacy laws and institutional policies must be respected first and foremost.

In addition, Dr. Grover finds the possibility of moving the needle with academic writing, no matter how small it is, fascinating. “Our writings as a scientific community will far outlast any of us. Hopefully, our work will contribute to the knowledge sought by future readers,” says he.

(By Hailing Lian, Brad Li)

Christian Bonde

Dr. Christian Bonde is one of Denmark’s most internationally recognized plastic surgeons. He has taught at numerous international courses and meetings. He is the only Danish member of EURAPS, the former President of the Danish Microsurgical Society, and a member of the board of the Danish Society for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has extensive experience in all aspects of plastic surgery, reconstructive surgery, cosmetic surgery and research. He has unique insight into breast-related surgery and his work has helped to revolutionize and reform international guidelines. For many years, he was senior consultant and associate professor at Copenhagen University Hospital. He is currently managing his own plastic surgery clinic, while also being the co-founder of a medtech software company, Holte Plastikkirurgi. Connect with Dr. Bonde on LinkedIn.

By conducting research and academic writing, Dr. Bonde hopes to be able to offer new perspectives and ultimately help shape and influence the direction of plastic surgery. By networking with international colleagues, following the major journals, and attending meetings, he hopes to ensure that his writing is up-to-date and can provide valuable new insights to the readers.

To Dr. Bonde, authors must reveal potential conflicts of interest (COIs) when publishing written work. While not always discrediting results, COIs can introduce research bias. Disclosing COIs fosters transparency and honesty in research, aiding evaluation by readers, reviewers, and editors, which builds trust between authors and readers. He thinks readers deserve awareness of author biases or vested interests that may affect objectivity or integrity. Such disclosure demonstrates author accountability and dedication to ethical standards, bolstering work credibility.

“Academic writing takes a lot of time and effort, but at the same time fosters intellectual growth. The process of researching and writing is also personally fulfilling. Academic writing refines my critical thinking, analytical skills, and ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. It allows me to explore my passion, delve into intriguing topics, and contribute to the larger body of knowledge in the field,” says Dr. Bonde.

(by Brad Li, Hailing Lian)

Ishith Seth

Dr. Ishith Seth, BSc, BBiomedSc(Hons), MD, MS, is a Senior Plastic Surgery Resident at Peninsula Health in Victoria, Australia, and upholds a dual role as an esteemed researcher and clinician. He is affiliated as an Honorary Senior Researcher with the Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, and The University of Melbourne. Additionally, he imparts his expertise as a Clinical Tutor and Adjunct Lecturer at Monash University. He holds a Master of Surgery degree, where he spearheaded groundbreaking research on the use of 3D-printed trapezium implants for treating thumb-base arthritis. His academic background also includes a Bachelor of Biomedical Science with Honors, focusing on the role of PGRMC1 in pancreatic cancer. Dr. Seth's scholarly contributions are remarkable, with over 100 peer-reviewed publications primarily centered on the application of AI in surgery and its integration into healthcare. A recognized authority in his field, he frequently presents at national and international conferences, sharing his foresight on the interplay of medicine and technology. He actively contributes to the academic community as an Editorial Board Member for several prestigious journals, including Gland Surgery, Annals of Joint, Precision Surgery, and AMSJ. He also serves as a guest editor for notable journals like Lancet, PRS Journal, PRS Global Open Journal, and the Aesthetic Surgery Journal. His interdisciplinary research interests, pioneering surgical techniques, and significant academic contributions position him as a prominent figure in the dynamic realms of medical science and education. Connect with Dr. Seth on Twitter @ishithseth.

ABS: What role does academic writing play in science?

Dr. Seth: “The whole of science is nothing more than a refinement of everyday thinking” Albert Einstein. In my journey as a researcher, I've learned that conducting scientific and clinical research is merely the first step in the larger scholarly endeavor. For the findings to reach and influence the broader scientific community, they must be meticulously written and published. I understand that most of the groundbreaking discoveries are communicated through peer-reviewed journals. These journals have a rigorous review process conducted by experts in the field, which not only validates the research but also makes these journals a primary source for new information that influences clinical decisions and practices. Writing a scientific paper and submitting it to a journal is a demanding task, fraught with challenges like lack of experience, writing anxiety, and resistance to feedback. Yet, the very act of writing enhances scientific thinking, and with practice, the necessary technical skills can be honed. Clear communication of research findings is vital for the growth of science and professional practices. Publishing research not only brings personal satisfaction and protects intellectual property but also plays a crucial role in disseminating new ideas and fostering scholarly discourse. It's essential for advancing evidence-based practices in various fields, including my own. Understanding that failing to publish significant findings can greatly reduce their impact on clinical practice motivates me to share my work. I've observed many medical students struggle with academic writing, often lacking guidance. Academic writing, especially in the scientific domain, follows a structured format that is distinct in its precision, clarity, and objectivity. This structure, while initially daunting, becomes more approachable with understanding and practice. Through my experiences, I've realized the importance of not only conducting research but also effectively communicating it to advance knowledge and practice.

ABS: How to ensure one’s writing is critical?

Dr. Seth: To ensure one’s writing is critical, I follow a few key principles. Firstly, I delve deep into research, ensuring I understand all facets of the topic. I critically assess my sources, looking for diverse viewpoints and challenging my preconceptions. In my writing, I aim to construct well-reasoned arguments, backed by strong evidence literature while also addressing potential counterarguments. This not only enriches my perspective but also strengthens the overall argument. Regular feedback is crucial; I actively seek it from seniors and mentors and remain open to revising my ideas based on their insights. This iterative process of writing, receiving feedback, and refining my work helps me maintain a critical and objective stance, ensuring my writing contributes thoughtfully and rigorously to the subject matter.

ABS: Academic writing takes a lot of time and effort. What motivates you to do so?

Dr. Seth: My motivation for dedicating time and effort to academic writing lies in my passion for advancing knowledge and contributing to my field of plastic surgery. The prospect of discovering new insights, solving complex problems, and sharing these findings with the wider academic community drives me. Each published work not only adds to the collective understanding but also helps in shaping future research directions. The personal satisfaction of seeing my research make an impact, however small, and the opportunity to engage in intellectual discourse are incredibly fulfilling aspects of my academic journey.

(by Brad Li, Alisa Lu)

Michael Co

Michael Co is a Specialist in General Surgery. He is currently the Director of the MBBS Program Assessment at the University of Hong Kong. His research focuses on breast surgical oncology, medical education, as well as information technology. Dr. Co is also the Chief Scientific Advisor of BME Systems, a tech company based in Hong Kong. Learn more about him here.

In Dr. Co’s opinion, a good academic paper should focus on a clinically or scientifically important topic - Never conduct studies for the sake of getting things published. Second, methodology is important, use appropriate methodology and statistic tools for scientific studies. Last but not least, database must be accurate and well-maintained – garbage in, garbage out is always true in scientific research.

Science advances rapidly day by day. To ensure one’s writing is up-to-date, Dr. Co suggests having a habit of reading scientific articles regularly, within or outside one’s field. He believes sometimes one can get inspiration from peer’s work for one’s next scientific research. One can also get inspiration for the next research study from daily life. He explains, “For example, I wrote a paper on the effect of playing background music in the operating room, which answered my long-time query as if playing background music in the operating theatre would distract me from doing good surgery. I wrote another paper on the safety of air travel for lymphedema patients after a patient asked me if she was fit to fly with her lymphedematous arm after breast cancer surgery. Research ideas are truly everywhere in our daily life.”

As a medical educator, Dr. Co encounters difficulties in teaching from time to time. These difficulties and obstacles are also part of his inspirations in doing research. For example, he has led the development of an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot system for clinical bedside teachings for medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the post-pandemic era, his team evaluated the use of this AI system in conducting the world’s first cross-territorial bedside teachings (Hong Kong – Singapore). It was subsequently covered by local and international media including BBC Global News Podcast.

“Academic writing is meant to solve (clinical) problems or provide evidence in a scientific manner. It is the sense of accomplishment that is most fascinating to me,” says Dr. Co.

(by Brad Li, Alisa Lu)

Nicolai Lassen Frid

Nicolai Lassen Frid did his Master’s thesis at the Department for Plastic Surgery and Burns Treatment, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark, in 2020. After graduating from Copenhagen University Medical School in June 2021, he continued his research and presented it at the EURAPS Research Council in Stockholm in May 2023. Afterwards, the thesis was published in Annals of Breast Surgery. He is still early in his career, and though he has been focusing on autologous breast reconstruction in relation to BMI up till now, he is keeping his mind open for his next possible research area within the specialty.

ABS: What are the essential elements of a good academic paper?

Dr. Frid: Wonder and diligence are key elements of a good paper, and to ensure our research keeps evolving, you need to have clear research questions and objectives and allow readers a transparent view of your work. With rigorous methodology and thorough reporting, you ensure transparency and reproducibility, which is essential for everyone’s future research. And lastly, it’s imperative to report all results, whether negative or positive, as each contributes to the collective knowledge base.

ABS: Science advances rapidly day by day. How do you ensure your writing is up-to-date and can give new insights to the field of research?

Dr. Frid: Keeping pace with the latest advancements is essential to ensure that your writing offers fresh insights into research. I make sure to stay updated with newly published academic papers and ensure, before beginning a research project, that the research question is unanswered or relevant to my field. Engagement and participation in academic discourses provide information about new trends and new directions.

ABS: Would you like to say a few words to encourage other academic writers who have been devoting themselves to advancing scientific progress?

Dr. Frid: As fellow academic writers, your dedication and hard work are important and necessary to the advancement of knowledge. While the journey may be challenging, the rewards of your efforts are always fulfilling. Every contribution, big or small, plays a valid role. Remember to use the available support, whether it’s supervisors, advisors, or colleagues. Stay persistent and committed, and you might end up with something truly impactful.

(by Brad Li, Alisa Lu)

Lucy M. De La Cruz

Dr. Lucy M. De La Cruz is an accomplished breast surgeon and academic leader. Currently serving as the Associate Professor of Surgery and Chief of Breast Surgery at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington DC, Dr. De La Cruz has made significant contributions to breast health and surgery. She is also the Director of the Ourisman Breast Health Center and Co-Program Director of the Breast Surgery Fellowship. Her research focuses on benign breast diseases, breast cancer outcomes, and quality improvement in breast surgery. Her dedication to advancing the field is evident through her numerous roles in committees and organizations, including her involvement in diversity and inclusion initiatives. With a rich clinical background spanning esteemed institutions such as Inova Health System, University of Pennsylvania, and University of Miami, she brings a wealth of experience to her academic and clinical pursuits. Connect with Dr. De La Cruz on Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Academic writing, according to Dr. De La Cruz, plays a crucial role in advancing science by disseminating research findings, sharing knowledge, and facilitating collaboration among researchers worldwide. It serves as the foundation for building upon existing theories, validating hypotheses, and generating new ideas. Through peer-reviewed publications, academic writing enables the scientific community to critically evaluate research methodologies, results, and interpretations, fostering transparency and rigor in scientific inquiry.

To avoid biases in one's writing, Dr. De La Cruz believes it is essential to remain objective, transparent, and mindful of potential influences that may impact the interpretation or presentation of data. Strategies such as clearly stating research objectives, disclosing conflicts of interest, utilizing diverse perspectives, and critically assessing evidence can help mitigate biases. Additionally, seeking feedback from peers and subject matter experts can provide valuable insights and ensure the integrity of the writing process.

“I would like to commend fellow academic writers for their dedication to advancing scientific progress through their scholarly contributions. Your commitment to rigorous research, innovative thinking, and effective communication plays a vital role in shaping the future of your respective fields. Embrace the challenges, stay curious, and never underestimate the impact of your work on improving human health and understanding the world around us. Together, we can continue to push the boundaries of knowledge and inspire future generations of researchers,” says Dr. De La Cruz.

(by Brad Li, Alisa Lu)

Yana Kost

Yana Kost, MD, is a transitional year resident at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and an incoming Dermatology resident at NYU Langone Health in New York City. She completed her medical school training at Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center in New York City, which included a full-time research fellowship in Supportive Oncodermatology with Dr. Beth McLellan at Montefiore. She graduated from Cornell University’s College of Arts & Sciences in 2017, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Russian.

In Dr. Kost’s opinion, scientific writing is one of the most important parts of research. It serves as a crucial tool for disseminating research findings, advancements in the field, and evidence-based recommendations for treatment. Importantly, scientific writing allows others to evaluate study validity and whether findings can be transferred to clinical practice. New ideas for future research, as well as collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals, may also be inspired by scientific writing, with the ultimate goal of moving patient care forward.

To avoid biases in one’s writing, Dr. Kost believes that it is crucial to remain objective to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the data and conclusions drawn from them. The presentation of the results should be critically evaluated by peers, mentors, and colleagues from different fields to allow for a thorough review and analysis of one’s work and ensure the writing is unbiased. One may also consider alternative perspectives and incorporate findings from others in the field into his/her work to ensure it is objective and scientifically rigorous.

Hoping to encourage other academic writers who have been devoting themselves to advancing scientific progress, Dr. Kost says, “Your commitment to advancing scientific progress is invaluable. Each publication, citation, or breakthrough is a testament to your hard work and will make a lasting impact on the field”.

(by Brad Li, Alisa Lu)