In 2024, many HBSN authors make outstanding contributions 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 perspective and insightful view as authors.
Outstanding Authors (2024)
Fabrizio Panaro, University of Eastern Piedmont “Amedeo Avogadro”, Italy
Raphael L. C. Araujo, Escola Paulista de Medicina – UNIFESP, Brazil
Zhiying Yang, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, China
Damiano Patrono, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, Italy
Ye Xin Koh, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
Matteo Donadon, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, Italy
Jongman Kim, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, South Korea
Andrea Peloso, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Niv Pencovich, Sheba Medical Center, Israel
Mohamed Bouattour, Beaujon University Hospital, France
Patrick Twohig, University of Rochester Medical Center, USA
Marco Palucci, University Hospital in Alessandria, Italy
Charing Ching-ning Chong, Chinese University of Hong Kong, China
Anna Di Sessa, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Italy
Outstanding Author
Fabrizio Panaro
Prof. Fabrizio Panaro is a Full Professor of Surgery at the University of Eastern Piedmont “Amedeo Avogadro”, Chair of the Division of Robotic and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Oncologic Surgery at the Alessandria University Hospital. He graduated in Medicine and Surgery at the University of Genoa in 2004. He carried out a Research Fellowship at the University of Illinois in Chicago, and later obtained a PhD in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Genoa. From 2007 to 2010, he attended as Assistant Chief at the Hepato-Bilio-Pancreatic and Endocrine Surgery Service of the University of Strasbourg. In 2012, Prof. Panaro was appointed Associate Professor of Surgery and, since 2016, Full Professor of Surgery at the University of Montpellier, at the Division of Digestive Surgery and Organ Transplantation at its University Hospital. Currently, he is an advisor of the Department of Surgical Oncology in the Cancer Center of the Sultanate of Oman, as well as in Morocco. His specific clinical and research skills in Surgical Oncology, in particular Hepato-Bilio-Pancreatic, Minimally Invasive and Transplantation have led him to be invited to several international conferences, to publish over 300 articles in scientific journals in English. He is also part of the editorial board of 32 international journals. Connect with Prof. Panaro on LinkedIn.
HBSN: What are the essential elements of a good academic paper?
Prof. Panaro: I think it is fundamental to think about what might interest the scientific community of which the readers are part. In this sense, being passionate about the subject of study is a great help: I write thinking about what interests me to read and investigate as an oncological surgeon. After having had the right idea about the subject of study, I believe it is very important to have a good organization, both practical and mental, of the work to be done: first carry out a correct bibliographical research, choose the correct design, set the appropriate methodology for your aims, and only at the end, you can draft and write adequately. Finally, it is important to have a team that works in the same direction, that supports you both in the good times and the most discouraging ones.
HBSN: What authors have to bear in mind during the preparation of a paper?
Prof. Panaro: You must always focus on your goals, not letting yourself be discouraged by any drawback along the way or slowdowns during your work, especially in case of important and complex studies, which are often the most difficult to successfully complete. But these latter ones are also the studies that can give the greatest satisfaction when completed, and those ones that can give the most important contribution to the scientific community. Efforts always pay off!
HBSN: Why do you choose to publish in HBSN?
Prof. Panaro: HBSN is always my first choice, for several reasons. First, it has a high Impact Factor, which is important to pursue from an academic point of view, to give due recognition to one's efforts. Second, it has an extremely effective editorial board, able to respond promptly to any requests and problems, to carry out peer reviews quickly and with competent reviewers. Finally, it has a streamlined and effective submission system, which can be considered an added value.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Raphael L. C. Araujo
Prof. Raphael L. C. Araujo is a Surgical Oncologist with expertise in HPB Surgery since he completed his fellowship training in Surgical Oncology at the AC Camargo Cancer Center in São Paulo, SP, Brazil (2010). He spent two years (2010 – 2012) as a Research Fellow at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center’s HPB Service (NY - US). Also, he had trained as resident in the HPB surgery at Hospital Paul Brousse in Villejuif, France (2012 - 2013). As soon as he was back to Brazil, he was dedicated to his Ph.D. and a Post-doctorate position at the University of São Paulo School of Medicine. He is the former Chief of the Department of Upper GI and HPB Surgery at Barretos Cancer Hospital (2015 - 2018), and afterwards became an Adjunct Professor of Surgery at Escola Paulista de Medicina - UNIFESP (São Paulo – Brazil) in the Liver Surgery Service. Get to know more about him here.
HBSN: What are the most commonly encountered difficulties in academic writing?
Prof. Araujo: We previously investigated this intriguing question in a multicentric cross-sectional study. A questionnaire that was designed online was used for the investigation. In summary, our survey results led us to the conclusion that conducting high-quality research requires a significant investment of time and money because it necessitates protected hours, editing, and writing enhancement—especially for non-native English speakers. It is crucial to address these problems in the course of academic work if one hopes to succeed in publishing and using sound research practices.
HBSN: Academic writing often involves evidence synthesis. Can you share tips on selecting the appropriate evidence for synthesis and analysis?
Prof. Araujo: The best way to select best evidence is a precise and concise strategy as PICO for an initial search. The PICO system works when it is driven for research including Population (P), the Intervention (I) that must be investigated, the Control (C) group and the desired Outcomes (O). Nevertheless, a special attention is necessary to both clarity and the conciseness that must be provided by the authors. It implies in both quality and the spread of the information addressed in the paper.
HBSN: Is it important for authors to disclose Conflict of Interest (COI)?
Prof. Araujo: Since COI is a common way to bias any evaluation or study, it is always crucial to disclose them. Although it is not appropriate to have COI, sometimes it is unavoidable to either authors’ practice or to the sponsorship of the study. Thus, COI disclosures allow reviewer and occasionally to the readers the possibility to have a clearer view of the provided information. It serves as a reminder that additional caution should be used when interpreting the material.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Zhiying Yang
Prof. Zhiying Yang is the director of the Department of General Surgery and Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery of China-Japan Friendship Hospital in Beijing. He worked in the General Surgery Department of Peking Union Medical College Hospital from 1991 to 2011, and served as the department director of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Department of China-Japan Friendship Hospital in 2011. His main research directions are surgical treatment of hepatobiliary pancreatic diseases, application of minimally invasive surgery, and clinical and basic research on hepatobiliary pancreatic malignant tumors. Learn more about Prof. Yang on ResearchGate and ORCID.
A good academic paper, according to Prof. Yang, should have a clear and logical design, written in a simple way and easy to understand. Moreover, it should present sufficient knowledge of the given topic or disease and certain novelty to enrich the discussed field.
In Prof. Yang’s opinion, some common difficulties encountered in academic writing include the language barrier faced by non-native English speakers, which influences the clarity and logic of the written papers. In addition, authors usually face challenges in mastering the balance of novelty and application of advanced methods/ research techniques without sacrificing the integrity of topic and the clinical value or aim of the research.
“Academic research and writing are like mystery solving. Its excitement comes from investigating and solving each piece of the puzzle with dedication, as every piece (when solved properly) can lead us to the following step to create a full picture,” says Prof. Yang.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Damiano Patrono
Dr. Damiano Patrono is an attending HPB and transplant (liver and pancreas) surgeon at the General Surgery 2U – Liver Transplant Centre at AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy. His clinical and research interests include liver preservation and transplantation, with a particular focus on DCD donation and graft steatosis, as well as minimally invasive liver surgery and enhanced recovery after surgery and transplantation. His institution allowed him to build an expertise on the whole spectrum of dynamic liver procurement and preservation techniques, including normothermic regional perfusion, as well as hypothermic oxygenated and normothermic machine perfusion. His research goals are improving organ utilization and outcomes of liver transplantation with marginal organs, enhancing access and eligibility to liver transplantation, and reducing the physiological and psychosocial impact of HPB and transplant surgery. Connect with Dr. Patrono on X (@PatronoDamiano).
“Good academic papers are blossoms in the desert,” says Dr. Patrono. In his opinion, good papers tackle a relevant clinical problem based on well-collected data, clearly express their aims and methods, are written in good and easy-to-read English, and do not lie or overemphasize their findings. In addition, good papers build on latest research findings to add a further bit of knowledge, rather than putting into questions already well-acquired concepts. Purpose and novelty are keys, and there is no purpose or novelty without knowledge.
To Dr. Patrono, the most important and difficult part of academic writing is having a good idea, i.e., generating a relevant research question, and then having the data to answer this question. Making good questions implies extensive knowledge of the literature and clinical experience. These are characteristics that can require a lifetime to develop, stressing the utmost importance of mentoring. In addition, data collection is another challenge. In clinical research, it is very frequent that a single institution cannot generate the amount of data required to answer certain questions, leading to the need for multicenter studies, which are burdened by several layers or complexity, including privacy and ethical issues. Finally, when one has gathered everything needed, a last effort should be made to move forward from the inevitable complexities of the study to the harmony and simplicity of what is delivered to the readers. Academic writing is about sharing knowledge, and writers are sometimes tempted to indulge on unnecessary details just for the sake of completeness. Despite this being a difficult effort, one should try and read the paper as a complete stranger, asking whether key ideas and data are clearly and understandably presented. He believes a great paper is most frequently also an enjoyable paper.
“There are several fascinating aspects about academic writing. First, it is a process that brings considerable benefits to the author. Putting something on paper (or on keyboard) implies that the topic is very clear to the author. Sometimes it is a harsh effort, but an enriching one. Second, academic writing is sometimes very enjoyable. I remember the pleasure of reading some research papers in which every word was so precise and consequential that I felt like I could almost feel the flow of the author writing, enjoying the content but also the beauty of the structure and the logic. In this regard, academic writing resembles music. Different authors have their own style, which is sometimes very recognizable, and reading their papers is sometimes like listening to your favorite singer or band. The process of refining academic writing also closely resembles learning and mastering playing an instrument, which requires hours of learning from more experienced players. Third and last, embarking in academic writing is a fantastic way to connect to peers from other parts of the world and to get out of the sometimes repetitive everyday routine. It is a way to be part of a community of people frequently sharing the same language and struggles, with which is incredibly rewarding to interact. Thanks to academic writing, I had and have the opportunity to meet fantastic people, some of whom have become friends. A fortune that is well worth the effort,” says Dr. Patrono.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Ye Xin Koh
Dr. Ye Xin Koh is a senior consultant surgeon at the Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, and a clinical associate professor at Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School. He is a dedicated surgical researcher with expertise in clinical studies, including prospective and retrospective designs, meta-analyses, and health services research, with an emphasis on cost-effectiveness. Dr. Koh’s research interests include liver and pancreatic cancer, focusing on surgical oncology and treatment advancements, as well as Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) diseases and the development of innovative bioengineering devices for pancreatic conditions. His current work aims to optimize surgical outcomes, improve healthcare efficiency, and contribute to developing novel therapeutic approaches for HPB diseases, ultimately enhancing patient care and quality of life. Connect with him on X.
A good academic paper, according to Dr. Koh, is distinguished by several key attributes. It begins with a clear and focused research question or thesis statement, acting as a compass for the entire study. The paper's structure is logical and coherent, guiding the readers seamlessly from the introduction and methodology to the results and discussion, ensuring a smooth and comprehensible narrative. A rigorous methodology is essential, providing a solid foundation for the validity and reliability of the findings. A thorough literature review places the research within the context of existing knowledge, highlighting the gaps that the study aims to address. The analysis is characterized by critical thinking and robust evidence, demonstrating a deep understanding of the subject matter. Proper citation and adherence to ethical standards are non-negotiable, upholding the principles of academic integrity. Lastly, the paper culminates in a compelling conclusion that summarizes the key findings, discusses their implications, and suggests potential avenues for future research.
When crafting an academic paper, Dr. Koh believes that authors should consider several critical factors to ensure its quality and impact. First, they should articulate a clear, well-defined research question or hypothesis, guaranteeing its specificity, originality, and meaningful contribution to the existing knowledge base. A comprehensive review of relevant literature is indispensable, as it situates the research within current academic discourse and identifies knowledge gaps that the paper aims to address. Authors should also pay close attention to the research design and methodology, ensuring robustness, suitability to the research question, and clear articulation, allowing for potential replication by other researchers. Clarity and precision in writing are paramount. Authors should communicate their ideas effectively, logically, and well-organized, avoiding jargon and ambiguity. Each section of the paper should be thoughtfully structured and seamlessly transition into the next, creating a cohesive narrative. Proper data analysis and interpretation are fundamental, as they serve as the foundation for the validity of the conclusions drawn. Authors must diligently cite their sources, acknowledging the work of others and avoiding plagiarism, which can severely jeopardize their credibility. In addition, ethical considerations must be upheld throughout the research and writing process, including obtaining necessary approvals for studies involving human or animal subjects and transparently disclosing any potential conflicts of interest. Finally, authors should familiarize themselves with the target journal's specific requirements and guidelines, adhering to them in terms of formatting, length, and style. By carefully addressing these factors, authors can significantly enhance their academic paper's clarity, credibility, and overall quality, maximizing its potential impact on the field.
“I selected HBSN for publication for several compelling reasons. The journal's invitation to contribute an editorial comment underscores its recognition of my expertise in the field, which I consider a great honor. The specialization of HBSN in HPB conditions offers a highly targeted platform to reach fellow professionals and researchers deeply invested in this area. The journal’s reputation for quality and impact resonates with my commitment to advancing knowledge in HPB surgery and related disciplines. Moreover, the streamlined submission process and the supportive editorial team ensure a positive and efficient publishing experience. These factors combined make HBSN an excellent choice for disseminating my research and contributing to the ongoing conversation in the HPB community,” says Dr. Koh.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Matteo Donadon
Matteo Donadon, MD, PhD, is a Full Professor of Surgery at the Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro” and Head of the Program of Surgical Oncology at the University Maggiore Hospital in Novara, Italy. He received his medical degree at the University of Milan and completed the residency in general surgery at the same university. He worked as a research fellow at the Department of Surgical Oncology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA. He earned his PhD in Hepatobiliary Oncology at the University of Sacred Heart in Rome, Italy. Prof. Donadon’s research interests comprise any aspects of liver and biliary surgery, including translational research. His work has attracted competitive research grants and awards. He is author of more than 200 publications in peer-reviewed journals, over 15 book chapters, and copious of abstracts and presentations at national and international meetings. Currently, he is responsible for teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students. Connect with Prof. Donadon on LinkedIn.
HBSN: What are the most commonly encountered difficulties in academic writing?
Prof. Donadon: Academic writing is tough, but it is a necessary element of an academic’s life since that helps to represent and spread the knowledge in a polished manner. It requires a tenacious attitude to deal with all the difficulties that I, as an author, encounter. Among these difficulties, I would list: 1) the difficulty in finding the right time to perform research and writing; 2) the difficulties in finding the right resources to perform research; and 3) the difficulty to find the right journal to publish in. Once done, academic writing becomes a valuable indispensable asset.
HBSN: Academic writing often involves evidence synthesis. Can you share tips on selecting the appropriate evidence for synthesis and analysis?
Prof. Donadon: Evidence synthesis is a difficult process. To me, it is important to build a research project on few – even on a single – research question(s) around a specific gap of knowledge with the aim to be precise and concise since the beginning of the project.
HBSN: Is it important for authors to disclose Conflict of Interest (COI)? To what extent would a COI influence a research?
Prof. Donadon: Yes, it is very important. Any research can be biased by COI. Thus, authors should disclose any COIs potentially related to that specific research that they are reporting. It is a matter of integrity, honor and reputation.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Jongman Kim
Jongman Kim serves at the Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine. His clinical practice areas include minimal invasive liver resection for HCC, CRLM, benign liver tumors, as well as DDLT and LDLT for living liver donors. He is interested in the multidisciplinary approach and neoadjuvant therapy for HCC. Recently, he has been conducting research on highly urgent LDLT and MASLD in liver transplant patients.
In Dr. Kim’s opinion, intellectual curiosity is the most important thing in academic writing. In his experience, he constantly writes to uncover new facts about the areas he is curious about, to create medical evidence, and to provide new information to liver-related researchers.
While preparing written works, Dr. Kim emphasizes that it is crucial for authors to adhere to reporting standards like STROBE, PRISMA, and CARE. To him, the basic purpose of these recommendations is to enhance the quality and dependability of research publications, therefore benefiting the whole scientific community. In terms of quality and credibility, manuscripts that adhere to established criteria are often seen as more credible and of superior quality. Implementing this strategy can increase the likelihood of being published and minimize the necessity for many modifications.
Lastly, there are a few words Dr. Kim would you like to say to all academicians, “I like the word ‘passion’ and the word ‘continuous’. I believe that if we persist with continuous passion, we might gain something, at the very least.”
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Andrea Peloso
Dr. Andrea Peloso, MD, PhD, is a Privat Docent at the University of Geneva (Switzerland), currently completing a two-year Clinical Fellowship in Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary and Transplant Surgery at Paul Brousse Hospital in Paris (France). He earned his MD from the University of Pavia (Italy) in 2010, followed by a two-year (2013-2015) Research Fellowship in Organ Bioengineering and Regenerative Medicine applied to solid organ transplantation at the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, North Carolina (United States). In 2015, he completed a PhD in Microsurgery and Experimental Surgery. Dr. Peloso’s career integrates high-level clinical practice with cutting-edge research, focusing on organ and cancer bioengineering. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications, he is internationally recognized for advancing bioengineered solutions for liver, biliary, and pancreatic diseases, driving innovations that enhance patient outcomes. His work bridges experimental research and direct clinical application of organ bioengineering in surgical oncology and transplantation. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
HBSN: What are the key skill sets of an author?
Dr. Peloso: I think that a successful academic, scientific author should develop a wide range of skills in order to make an effective contribution to their field. Subject matter expertise is fundamental in ensuring the accuracy and relevance of their research. The ability to think critically is equally important, allowing the author to carefully analyze data, evaluate methodologies, and draw informed, robust conclusions. Strong research skills are vital, encompassing the design of experiments, data collection, and thorough analysis. The ability to communicate complex ideas in a structured and concise manner is key to making research accessible to both specialists and a wider audience, so clear and coherent writing is a fundamental skill. Collaboration is often required in scientific work, and an author must effectively work within a team while ensuring their contributions are clearly identified. Finally, a deep commitment to ethical standards is crucial, encompassing honesty in research, proper attribution of sources, and ensuring the validity of data presented.
HBSN: How to avoid biases in one’s writing?
Dr. Peloso: I strongly believe that a mindful and reflecting approach is required to ensure objectivity in writing. First, we need to recognize and acknowledge personal biases, avoiding their influences on our work. Scientific writers should focus on facts and quantifiable evidence, rather than subjective interpretations: it is important to present balanced perspectives, offering multiple viewpoints and counterarguments to maintain objectivity. Peer review remains crucial to identify unintentional biases, as external perspectives can highlight areas of potential partiality.
HBSN: Academic writing takes a lot of time and effort. What motivates you to do so?
Dr. Peloso: Despite the substantial time and effort required for academic writing, several factors serve as powerful motivators. Personally, the desire to advance knowledge and contribute to the scientific community is the main drive. The prospect of uncovering novel insights, influencing clinical practices, or addressing pressing medical challenges—such as in fields like hepato-biliary and pancreatic surgical oncology—provides a profound sense of purpose. Additionally, the process of academic writing serves as a means of personal and professional growth. Recognition in the form of publishing in reputable journals (such as HBSN), is another significant motivating factor. Finally, the broader impact of academic writing on public health, policy, and education can be a compelling reason to dedicate time and effort to this rigorous process.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Niv Pencovich
Dr. Niv Pencovich, MD, PhD, serves as an attending surgeon in the HPB and Transplantation Unit and as Head of Research and Development in the Division of General Surgery at Sheba Medical Center, Israel. Additionally, he is the lead investigator at the affiliated Laboratory of Molecular Biology. He holds an MD from Tel Aviv University, and a PhD in Molecular Biology from the Weizmann Institute of Science. He completed his general surgery residency at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (2020), and a fellowship in liver, kidney, and pancreas transplantation at Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN (2023). Appointed Assistant Professor in Tel-Aviv university (2021), he investigates the mechanisms of immune suppression by myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), with applications in cancer biology, liver regeneration, and transplant immunology. Clinically, his work is directed at advancing predictive outcomes, refining surgical decision-making, and identifying biomarkers for postoperative complications in HPB and transplantation surgery. Connect with Dr. Pencovich on LinkedIn.
HBSN: What are the essential elements of a good academic paper?
Dr. Pencovich: PubMed indexes over 1.5 million new scientific papers annually, which translates to more than 4,000 articles each day. In this immense volume of research, identifying a truly impactful academic paper is like finding a diamond in the rough. Scientific publications vary widely in their focus and scope—some present basic science discoveries from the lab, others detail their experiences with surgical procedures, and some introduce theoretical frameworks or viewpoints. Each type of publication may contribute to the scientific discourse, and all can be considered “good” if they meaningfully advance our collective knowledge or challenge existing paradigms.
In my view, a good academic paper must offer novel insights that build upon the current body of knowledge. This novelty should be underpinned by a thorough and well-reasoned review of existing literature, demonstrating a clear understanding of the topic’s context and gaps. The paper must employ sound methodology, ensuring that the research design, data collection, and analysis are rigorous and reproducible. Quality assurance through transparent reporting and adherence to ethical standards is essential, as it reinforces the reliability and credibility of the work. Ultimately, a good academic paper not only answers specific research questions but also opens new avenues for inquiry, inspiring further exploration and discussion within the scientific community.
HBSN: What authors have to bear in mind during preparation of a paper?
Dr. Pencovich: There are many ways to approach writing an academic paper, and I’ve encountered diverse opinions on the best process. Some authors start with the results, others with the methods, and some begin with the introduction. I once worked with an exceptional scientist who wrote the paper sequentially from start to finish. Personally, I focus first on the “gray areas”—ensuring the methodology is solid, the statistical analysis is accurate and reliable, and that there are no errors in the data. Writing a paper is also an opportunity to review and reassess one’s own data, often sparking new ideas and interpretations.
Once the methods and results are complete and I have a firm grasp on the study, I turn to crafting the introduction and discussion to frame and contextualize the findings. Finally, I write the abstract and title. Authors should remember that their paper will be read by the broader scientific community, with potential impacts beyond their expectations. It should embody their best work, emphasizing accuracy, integrity, and transparency in every aspect.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Mohamed Bouattour
Dr. Mohamed Bouattour is a Medical Doctor specializing in Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Digestive Oncology, with extensive experience at Beaujon University Hospital in Paris, France, where he serves as Head of the Liver Cancer and Innovative Therapy Unit. His research focuses on new drug development for liver cancer, optimizing patient pathways, and identifying predictive biomarkers of therapeutic response. Through his leadership in numerous clinical trials, he has driven advancements in therapeutic options for hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma, contributing significantly to the field’s clinical knowledge and treatment protocols. He is actively involved in disseminating scientific findings, frequently presenting collaborative research at national and international conferences. He has co-authored numerous publications in liver oncology and treatment innovation. As a member of EASL, AASLD, ILCA, and ASCO, Dr. Bouattour remains dedicated to advancing liver and cancer care through ongoing research, professional development, and commitment to patient-centered innovations. Follow him on LinkedIn and ResearchGate.
Common difficulties in academic writing, according to Dr. Bouattour, include articulating complex ideas concisely, maintaining a clear and logical structure, and ensuring coherence across sections. Many writers struggle with balancing technical detail with readability, often leading to overly dense or fragmented text. Effective literature integration is another challenge, as it requires critical synthesis rather than simple reporting. Additionally, adhering to specific formatting and citation standards can be tedious, especially when adapting to various journal guidelines. Language precision is crucial, as misused terms or vague phrasing can lead to misinterpretation. Finally, he reckons that receiving and integrating constructive feedback can be daunting but is essential for producing high-quality work.
In Dr. Bouattour’s opinion, when selecting evidence for synthesis, authors should prioritize high-quality, recent, and relevant studies that directly address their research question. It is essential to critically evaluate the credibility, methodology, and limitations of each source, favoring well-designed studies with robust data. Authors should aim to capture a balanced view by including diverse perspectives and avoiding selective citation, which can introduce bias. During synthesis, grouping evidence by themes or trends, rather than summarizing each source individually, helps in building a cohesive analysis. Authors must maintain objectivity, integrate evidence logically, and be mindful of contextual factors, ensuring that the synthesis accurately reflects the current state of knowledge in the field.
In addition, Dr. Bouattour points out that disclosing a Conflict of Interest (COI) is crucial in research to maintain transparency and credibility. A COI can potentially influence the design, methodology, interpretation, or reporting of findings, as personal, financial, or professional interests may consciously or unconsciously bias outcomes. By disclosing COIs, authors allow readers and reviewers to assess the objectivity of the research. Even if a COI does not affect the results, transparency helps build trust in the scientific process. Journals and institutions often require COI disclosures to safeguard against potential biases, ensuring that research maintains integrity and remains grounded in ethical standards.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Patrick Twohig
Patrick Twohig is an Assistant Professor of Medicine and Attending Physician in the Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at the University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, New York, USA. He is a consulting gastroenterologist on the inpatient teaching service at the University and has interests in medical education, quality improvement, and clinical research. His outpatient practice is primarily focused on advanced liver disease and pre-liver transplantation. Recent areas of research and clinical care include alcohol-associated liver disease and hepatic encephalopathy. He is a principal investigator for clinical trials in hepatology investigating novel therapies in metabolic-associated liver disease, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. He is a member of multiple committees in the American College of Gastroenterology, American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, and American Society of Transplantation. Learn about Dr. Twohig here and connect with him on X @2higMD.
The way Dr. Twohig sees it, an author working on clinical research in medicine needs a unique blend of scientific, analytical, and writing skills to create clear, reliable, and impactful studies. Having the medical knowledge and expertise relating to the area of research provides a platform for new ideas and areas of innovation. To him, being able to collect, organize, and analyse data and translate the findings in a clear and impactful way are also skills that are intangible as an author. Being able to critically evaluate one’s own work and accept feedback from others, while being a lifelong learner that is updated on new research and technologies in the field can translate into new research ideas and opportunities to expand current standards of care and advance medical knowledge.
In Dr. Twohig’s opinion, several strategies can be used to avoid bias in writing. Introspective reflection can help identify any personal values or assumptions that could influence the interpretation of data or understanding of a topic. Relying on objective data rather than subjective opinion is important. Seeking feedback from mentors and collaborators is a great way to eliminate bias and gain insight into one’s work. Embracing alternative strategies and new methods, especially statistically, to avoid bias are important.
“There are multiple motivating factors in academic writing. Having the opportunity to advance medical knowledge and patient care which can influence more patients around the world is a privilege of research and scholarly activity. Interacting with patients and evaluating how we practice medicine provide a constant opportunity to try and improve what we do. Intellectual curiosity and learning more about aspects of disease can galvanize ways to expand our understanding and optimize standards of care. As a teacher and mentor, research and academic writing is a great way to network, share skills, ideas, and encourage learners and trainees as they embark on their career,” says Dr. Twohig.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Marco Palucci
Marco Palucci, MD, graduated in medicine from Vita-Salute San Raffaele University in Milan and completed his residency in general surgery at the same institution in 2023. During his training years, he was particularly interested in oncologic surgery and pancreatic surgery. He also spent a period at the HPB and liver transplantation unit of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) in Bordeaux, France. He has undergone post-graduate training courses in liver surgery and clinical abdominal ultrasonography. In October 2024, he received his 1st level master's degree in “Biostatistics for clinical research and scientific publication” from the University of Padova. He is currently working at the Oncological, Robotic and HPB Surgery Unit of the University Hospital in Alessandria. Connect with Dr. Palucci on LinkedIn.
Academic writing plays a fundamental role in science, serving as the primary means through which scientific knowledge is communicated, validated and disseminated within the scientific community. In Dr. Palucci’s view, it is the most reliable method for scientists to share their discoveries with colleagues and the global public. Moreover, academic writing functions as a tool for verifying and certifying research findings, ensuring that results are reproducible by others. This rigorous process is essential for guaranteeing the publication and spreading of credible, high-quality research. Such practices are vital for advancing knowledge in a specific field, sharing insights and experiences and contributing to a robust education and training system.
Dr. Palucci believes that producing critical writing requires researchers to first rely on a structured and rigorous working method. This inevitably involves ensuring that the sources are consistent and reliable, applying appropriate and robust statistical analyses and strictly adhering to established guidelines. When publishing results, it is crucial that they are communicated objectively, clearly, precisely and without ambiguity. Being critical also means acknowledging the biases and limitations of one’s study, as this is the first step toward overcoming them and producing higher-quality scientific work in the future. Finally, publishing on reputable journals with a strong peer-review system is an effective way to maintain the high quality of research work.
Lastly, Dr. Palucci highlights that applying for Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval is vital to ensure the ethical conduct of research, particularly when human subjects are involved.
IRB approval guarantees that the research meets ethical standards, safeguards participant safety and protects the rights of subjects involved. It confirms that participation in the study is voluntary and based on informed consent, while preserving the confidentiality and anonymity of sensitive data. Furthermore, it ensures compliance with regulations set by the researcher’s institution, country and, from a broader perspective, by the international scientific community. This is particularly important in multicenter trials involving hospitals in different countries, which may have different regulations. He adds, “This approval not only protects patients but also the researchers who can work in a safe and legally protected environment. Additionally, approval by the ethics committee is a requirement for many high-quality journals that publish only valid scientific research, adding credibility and validity to our findings. As one can easily infer, the absence of IRB approval could expose researchers to significant ethical and legal risks and severely limit the opportunity for publishing our scientific works.”
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Charing Ching-ning Chong
Dr. Chong is currently Honorary Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery, the Chinese University of Hong Kong. She obtained her medical degree at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Her clinical practice areas include open and minimally invasive hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, as well as endoscopic ultrasound. Her main research interests are minimally invasive surgery for hepatobiliary and pancreatic disease; as well as EUS-guided tissue acquisition. She has strong track record on these fields. She has published a number of key papers on minimally invasive hepatectomy and participated in many international multicentered studies in this field. She has delivered copious of abstracts and presentations at national and international meetings. Successful projects and collaborations have been established worldwide. She serves as the council member of Hong Kong Society of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery. She is also a member of several professional organizations including the International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (IHPBA), International Association of Surgeons, Gastroenterologists and Oncologists, Hong Kong Society of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery and Hong Kong Society of Robotic Surgery.
In Dr. Chong’s opinion, a proficient academic writer embodies essential qualities and skills grouped into key areas. First, writing skills are crucial, including a strong grasp of grammar, punctuation, and stylistic norms. Understanding academic conventions—such as citation styles, structure, and tone—is vital for effective writing. Clarity and precision enable writers to convey ideas clearly, avoiding ambiguity and ensuring arguments are easily understood. The ability to revise and edit is essential for improving clarity and correcting errors, while engaging with the audience helps tailor style and content to meet readers' expectations. Second, research skills also play a significant role. Originality and creativity enhance academic writing, and a solid foundation in research methodologies supports arguments with credible evidence. Critical thinking allows writers to analyze and synthesize information, establishing connections between ideas. Third, management skills are important as well. Attention to detail ensures professionalism, while organizational skills help structure papers logically. Problem-solving abilities aid in overcoming narrative challenges. Finally, resilience is key. Handling rejection and criticism is essential in the publishing industry, and a passion for the subject motivates writers to produce insightful work. By developing these qualities, academic writers can enhance their effectiveness and contribute meaningfully to their fields.
“Be confident with an open mind,” says Dr. Chong when she is being asked how to avoid biases in one’s writing. In the meantime, she believes researchers should also maintain objectivity. It can be achieved by conducting thorough research with a diverse source (and cite sources appropriately). Verify facts and statistics from credible sources to avoid spreading misinformation. Consider multiple perspectives, including opposing views and incorporate counterarguments. Focus on evidences and support claims with data.
“Passion for the subject is my biggest motivation to write. I am also driven by the desire to contribute to my field, whether by adding to research, sharing insights, or challenging ideas. Engaging in academic writing enhances my critical thinking and writing skills, fostering personal and professional growth. The potential to influence others and receive positive feedback from peers further strengthens my motivation. Collaboration on research projects provides support and inspiration, often leading to lasting friendships. These intertwined factors create a strong drive to pursue academic writing,” says Dr. Chong.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Anna Di Sessa
Dr. Anna Di Sessa is a pediatrician with specialized interests in endocrinology and nephrology, currently working at the Pediatric Clinic of the University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" in Naples, Italy. Since 2011, her research has focused on childhood obesity and its cardiometabolic consequences, particularly steatotic liver disease (SLD). She has published several papers in this field, many of which have been featured in high-ranking journals. In addition to research, Dr. Sessa has participated in several multicenter clinical trials related to childhood obesity. Over the past few years, her expertise in pediatric obesity has been further strengthened by an international fellowship at Yale University. This opportunity has broadened her knowledge and enhanced her ability to develop impactful research projects, which she continues to integrate into her daily work even after completing her PhD. Recently, her research has shifted toward exploring SLD and its complex relationships with extrahepatic complications, particularly kidney damage.
In Dr. Sessa’s opinion, a strong academic paper should be clear, coherent, well-organized, and showcase critical thinking along with proper grammar. These elements are essential for ensuring clarity, logical flow, and scholarly rigor. When combined, they enable the paper to make a meaningful scientific contribution to the field of study.
When preparing a paper, Dr. Sessa highlights that authors must consider several key factors to ensure that their work meets academic standards and effectively communicates their research. They should focus on developing a clear, structured argument, supported by thorough research and critical analysis, while ensuring the work is well-organized with appropriate methodologies and up-to-date citations. Attention to grammar, clarity, logical flow, ethics, and consistency is also essential for maintaining scholarly rigor and ensuring readability.
“The decision to publish in HBSN is influenced by several key factors. Beyond its prestigious journal ranking, the primary motivation lies in its specialized, interdisciplinary audience. HBSN offers valuable insights into hepatobiliary surgery and nutrition, significantly impacting clinical practices related to the comprehensive management of these patients. This makes HBSN the ideal platform for research focused on nutrition-related challenges faced by patients undergoing liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic surgery,” says Dr. Sessa.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)