In 2025, 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 (2025)

Kenei Furukawa, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Japan

Fatima Cody Stanford, Massachusetts General Hospital, USA

Huan-Fang Lee, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan

Stylianos Tzedakis, University Paris Cité, France

Danila Capoccia, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy

Salvatore Gruttadauria, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Italy, Italy

Naoshi Nishida, Kindai University, Japan

Laurin Rauter, Medical University of Vienna, Austria

Hassan Aziz, University of Iowa, USA

Toru Beppu, Kumamoto University, Japan

Mohamed Ali Chaouch, University Hospital of Monastir, Tunisia

Antonio Cubisino, Beaujon Hospital, France

Tetsuya Shimizu, Nippon Medical School Hospital, Japan

Tadahisa Inoue, Aichi Medical University, Japan

Luca Viganò, Humanitas Gavazzeni Hospital, Italy

Jinsoo Rhu, Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea

Chahrazed Dous, Public Hospital of Theniet El Abed, Algeria

Koichiro Hata, Kyoto City Hospital, Japan

Artur Rebelo, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Germany

Mina S. Makary, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, USA

Tsubasa Tsutsumi, Kurume University School of Medicine, Japan

Wissam Benhami, University of Algiers, Algeria

Pawel Rogalski, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland

Masato Yoneda, Yokohama City University, Japan

Atsushi Ono, Hiroshima University, Japan

Masanori Fukushima, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan

Ricky Harminder Bhogal, The Royal Marsden Hospital, UK

Outstanding Author

Kenei Furukawa

Kenei Furukawa currently serves at the Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Japan. His research area is liver resection, especially for colorectal liver metastases and living donor liver transplantation. His recent focus is on interventions and evaluation focusing on osteopenia before hepatectomy.

In Dr. Furukawa’s view, a good academic paper is one that scientifically answers simple questions derived from clinical practice with logical proof gained from basic research, and that is attractive to many readers.

To Dr. Furukawa, the difficulty researchers encounter in academic writing is consulting many references and examining research results logically and from a molecular biological perspective in discussions.

“I believe that doctors are also scientists, so I think that proving something new based on scientific evidence is one of the missions of a doctor in academic writing. I also think that the greatest attraction of academic writing in English is that it has the potential to help not only the patients I meet, but patients all over the world,” says Dr. Furukawa.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Fatima Cody Stanford

Dr. Fatima Stanford is an Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School and one of the first fellowship-trained obesity medicine physicians globally. She is a highly cited physician-scientist with over 250 peer-reviewed publications. She earned her BS and MPH from Emory University, MD from the Medical College of Georgia, MPA from Harvard Kennedy School, and executive MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology. She completed her residency at the University of South Carolina and a fellowship in Obesity Medicine & Nutrition at MGH/HMS. Her accolades include the AMA Inspirational Physician Award, HMS Amos Diversity Award, and The Obesity Society Clinician of the Year. In 2021, she received the Emory Rollins School of Public Health Distinguished Alumni Award, and in 2022, she was named a Scholar in Diagnostic Excellence by the National Academy of Medicine. She serves on the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. Follow Dr. Stanford on LinkedIn, Instagram and her homepage.

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

Dr. Stanford: A good academic scientific paper begins with a clear and concise title that reflects the main research question. The abstract provides a brief summary of the research question, methodology, results, and conclusions. The introduction offers necessary background, states the research question or hypothesis, and outlines the paper’s objectives. A literature review surveys existing research, highlighting gaps that the study addresses. The methodology details the research design, methods, and procedures for data collection and analysis. Results are presented with tables, figures, and statistical analyses. The discussion interprets these findings, addressing their implications and significance in relation to existing research. A concise conclusion summarizes key findings and suggests areas for further investigation. A comprehensive reference list cites all sources used, formatted in a specific citation style like APA or MLA. Appendices may be included for additional material such as raw data or supplementary information, ensuring a clear and rigorous presentation of the research.

HBSN: What authors have to bear in mind during preparation of a paper?

Dr. Stanford: When preparing a scientific paper on, for example, obesity research, authors should begin with a clear research question or hypothesis that addresses a specific aspect of obesity. This focus guides the study and ensures that the research remains targeted and relevant. Conducting a thorough literature review is crucial to understanding the current state of research, identifying gaps, and positioning the study within the broader scientific context. Methodological rigor is essential; researchers should use robust and appropriate data collection and analysis methodologies, such as precise measurements of body composition, dietary assessments, and statistical analyses that account for confounding variables.

Ethical considerations are paramount, especially when involving human subjects, requiring appropriate approvals from institutional review boards. Data should be presented clearly and accurately, utilizing tables, graphs, and figures to highlight key findings—visual representation can be especially effective in obesity research for illustrating complex data. In discussing findings, authors should interpret them in the context of existing research, highlighting implications for clinical practice, public health, or policy and suggesting directions for future research.

Clarity and precision in writing are vital, as well as avoiding jargon and ensuring that the data support arguments and conclusions. Authors must adhere to their target journal’s specific formatting and submission guidelines, including citation style, word count, and structure. Being prepared for peer review and responding constructively to feedback is also important, as this process can significantly enhance the quality and impact of the paper. Lastly, authors should consider the relevance and potential impact of their research on the field of obesity, ensuring that it contributes valuable insights or advancements. By focusing on these considerations, authors can improve the quality and significance of their scientific papers in obesity research.

HBSN: Why do you choose to publish in HBSN?

Dr. Stanford: Publishing in HBSN offers several advantages, especially if your research intersects with these fields. The journal targets a specialized audience interested in hepatobiliary surgery, nutrition, and related areas, ensuring that your research reaches professionals specifically interested in these topics. If your work in obesity has implications for liver health, metabolic syndrome, or nutritional interventions, this journal provides a relevant platform, as obesity often impacts liver function and nutrition. Known for its high-quality standards, the journal enhances the visibility and credibility of your research. Its interdisciplinary focus encourages collaboration and provides a comprehensive view of issues that benefit from multifaceted approaches. The rigorous peer-review process can improve your paper’s quality through expert feedback. Overall, publishing here allows you to contribute to advancing knowledge in hepatobiliary surgery and nutrition, potentially influencing clinical practices and guiding future research in related areas.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Huan-Fang Lee

Huan-Fang Lee is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nursing at the College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan. Her research focuses on nursing science, with an emphasis on nurse well-being, resilience, and burnout, as well as enhancing the quality of patient care. She is also actively involved in developing and evaluating training programs to improve nursing competence. Her article in the Journal of Nursing Management was the most cited in 2020. Learn more about her on YouTube and her homepage.

To be a successful author, Huan-Fang believes that it requires not merely a single ability, but rather a combination of factors that contribute to success. The required key skills include:

• Deep subject matter expertise: A thorough understanding of the theoretical knowledge, the latest research advancements, and clinical practice within the field is crucial for writing insightful and impactful articles. This requires continuous learning and refinement, maintaining a sharp awareness of new developments in the field.
• Clear logical thinking and analytical skills: A good scientific paper requires a clear structure, rigorous logic, and sufficient evidence. This demands strong analytical skills to present complex research processes and results concisely and understandably to the readers. Proficient data analysis skills are also essential, ensuring correct interpretation and meaningful conclusions.
• Precise communication skills: This encompasses both written and visual communication. The author needs to use precise language to clearly express the research aims, methods, results, and conclusions, avoiding ambiguity. Figures and tables should be used effectively to support, not overshadow, the written text.
• Effective literature review and application skills: All academic research builds upon previous work. Authors must effectively review and select relevant literature, appropriately integrating it into their research to support their arguments and avoid repetition or errors. Correct citation formatting is also paramount.
• Strong time management and self-discipline: Writing a scientific paper demands significant time and effort. Effective time management and self-discipline are essential for timely completion of various stages, including writing, revision, and submission.
• Proactive communication and collaboration skills: Writing often involves teamwork. Strong communication facilitates effective collaboration with research team members, editors, and reviewers to produce high-quality work.

Beyond these skills, she reckons that continuous learning, consistent self-reflection and improvement, and a genuine passion and commitment to research are equally critical. Cultivating these abilities takes time and experience.

“My motivation to write is a blend of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. The intellectual stimulation of research and the satisfaction of contributing to the advancement of knowledge are undeniably powerful drivers. However, beyond that, the potential for tangible impact is equally compelling. Seeing my research translated into improved clinical practices or better patient care is extremely rewarding. Recognition, such as this award, also provides further incentive to continue pushing the boundaries of my field,” says Huan-Fang.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Stylianos Tzedakis

Stylianos Tzedakis is a surgeon of Greek origin, currently working in the Department of Hepatobiliary, Digestive and Endocrine Surgery of the Cochin University Hospital in Paris and as an Assistant Professor in the University Paris Cité. His main fields of activity are minimally invasive (laparoscopic and robotic) and open liver and biliary tract surgeries. His research interests include analysis of Big Data and Machine Learning techniques in the field of hepatobiliary surgery and the management of primary and secondary liver tumors. In parallel, he is part of the educational committee of the Grand Paris Surgical Campus, where his activity is centered on the training and evaluation of surgical skills using video and new digital solutions. He is an elected administrative member of the French Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Association and member-at-large of the International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (IHPBA). Connect with Dr. Tzedakis on LinkedIn.

HBSN: What role does academic writing play in science?

Dr. Tzedakis: Academic writing is the foundation of scientific communication, ensuring that research findings are systematically documented, critically analyzed, and effectively communicated to the scientific community and across disciplines, thus, fostering collaborative research, cross-pollination of ideas, and the integration of knowledge from multiple fields. It provides a structured platform for researchers to share new findings, theories or methodologies. As such, scientific progress is built upon the foundation of previously published academic work, and without clear, precise, and accessible academic writing, the transmission of knowledge would be hindered.

On the other hand, scientific research must be systematic and replicable for it to hold validity, while transparency is essential for verifying findings, refining methodologies, and generating new insights. It also involves critical thinking to ensure the robustness of scientific arguments, reduce bias, and enhance the credibility of research. Academic writing is much more than a method of presenting research—it is a critical pillar of scientific integrity, innovation, and communication. By adhering to rigorous writing standards, researchers ensure transparency, reproducibility, and the continued progression of scientific knowledge.

Finally, although academic writing is primarily directed at scientists, it also plays a role in translating research into practical applications that benefit society. Well-structured publications can influence policymaking, clinical guidelines, technological advancements, and public health interventions.

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

Dr. Tzedakis: Critical writing is essential in academic and scientific discourse and requires a combination of analytical thinking, structured reasoning, and evidence-based argumentation. To ensure critical writing, one must go beyond merely describing findings and engage in deep analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of information. Critical writing involves critically assessing different viewpoints, strengths, and limitations of existing literature, exploring different viewpoints and assessing their validity instead of merely summarizing existing literature. Moreover, strong critical writing should rely on credible evidence rather than personal opinions supported by high-quality sources such as peer-reviewed journal articles including randomized trials, high-quality observational studies, systematic reviews, or meta-analyses. A critical writer should be permenantly asking "why" and "how", going beyond fact description, continuously questioning underlying assumptions, methodologies, and interpretations. Finally, critical writing requires logical progression of ideas, avoiding logical fallacies, contributing to a more rigorous and thoughtful academic discourse. Like all research qualities, critical writing is an evolving skill that researchers refine and develop throughout their careers. By using evidence-based reasoning, questioning assumptions, structuring arguments logically, maintaining precision, and revising rigorously, researchers can ensure that their writing is both critical and impactful.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Danila Capoccia

Dr. Danila Capoccia is an endocrinologist at Sapienza University of Rome and she works in the Diabetes Unit of SM Goretti Hospital in Latin, Italy. Under her postgraduate in Endocrinology and Metabolism Diseases, she has acquired the knowledge related to clinical studies on the metabolism, with a good experience in researching patients with obesity, type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance, and patients undergoing bariatric surgery. She also has rich experience in managing patients with morbid obesity and has carried out several clinical trials in this area. She received three research grants, from 2016 to 2020, for her research on obesity, bariatric surgery, diabetes and other obesity-related comorbidities. Over the past few years, she has been involved in research on MASLD by noninvasive assessment of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. She is an author and co-author of several publications. Several of her research results have been published and presented in national and international congresses.

HBSN: What are the key skill sets of an author?

Dr. Capoccia: In the academic world, authors need a specific set of skills to produce high-quality, credible, and impactful work. These skills go beyond basic writing ability and focus on rigorous research, critical thinking, and the effective communication of complex ideas. An academic author must be able to form logical, coherent arguments and support them with solid evidence. Academic authors must be able to identify gaps or inconsistencies in existing research and propose ways to fill those gaps with new research or theoretical advancements.

HBSN: How to avoid biases in one’s writing?

Dr. Capoccia: The first step is to acknowledge that everyone has inherent biases. These biases could stem from personal beliefs, cultural influences, or past experiences. Being aware of your own biases helps you recognize when they might influence your academic writing. Before writing, every author should think about his/her own stance on the topic and how it may shape the way he/she presents information. This can help each author step back and see the bigger picture, ensuring he/she doesn’t unintentionally favor one perspective than other.

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

Dr. Capoccia: Academic writing can be incredibly time-consuming and mentally demanding, but it also offers a chance to add your voice and perspective to an ongoing conversation in your field. The thought of contributing to a larger body of knowledge, influencing future research, or even impacting real-world applications can keep motivation high. Writing is a process of discovery. It helps refine your thinking, improve your skills, and expand your understanding of the world of science.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Salvatore Gruttadauria

Dr. Salvatore Gruttadauria is the Chairman of the Department Abdominal Center at the Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad alta specializzazione (IRCCS ISMETT), University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Italy (UPMCI), in Palermo, Italy. He is a Clinical Professor of Surgery at the Department of Surgery of the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and a Professor of Surgery at the University of Catania in Italy. He was trained at ISMETT by the T. Starzl transplant team and became the first Sicilian surgeon to perform a liver transplant in Sicily. In 2021, he was the first surgeon in the world to transplant a liver from a SARS COVID positive donor into an adult recipient. He was the President of the 2024 national meeting of the Italian Society of Organ Transplantation, and has performed more than 7,000 major surgical procedures including 1000 organ transplants. He is the author of more than 300 scientific publications with h index of 40. Connect with Dr. Gruttadauria on LinkedIn.

In Dr. Gruttadauria’s view, a good author must be able to combine clinical insight with methodological rigor. A solid understanding of disease mechanisms, diagnosis, treatment, and patient care pathways is essential, but it must be complemented by a deep knowledge of the literature and the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, capable of bringing all the skills needed to design methodologically sound studies to provide clinically relevant answers.

According to Dr. Gruttadauria, an unbiased approach must be maintained from the beginning of any clinical study. This begins with formulating testable research questions based on clinical relevance and identifying potential confounding factors. Commitment to transparent and reproducible research requires adherence to relevant guidelines. In scientific writing, the best way to avoid bias is to rigorously commit evidence, be humble about one’s own assumptions, and use a clear, inclusive style that prioritizes transparency and reproducibility over persuasion.

“As clinicians with a strong commitment to excellence, we cannot think of hepatobiliary surgery and medicine except within a larger community based on a shared scientific conversation. These are ever-evolving fields. Through publishing articles, we engage in dialogue with colleagues around the globe. Our work becomes part of a collective effort to solve difficult problems. This helps us refine ideas, challenge clinical practice, and generate new insights,” says Dr. Gruttadauria.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Naoshi Nishida

Prof. Naoshi Nishida received his M.D. in 1985 and Ph.D. in 1993 from Kyoto University. He is currently a Professor in the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University. Prior to this, he served as an Associate Professor at Kyoto University. He is a leading expert in the field of liver cancer including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with an impressive h-index of 55 for publication and numerous awards recognizing his contributions to liver cancer research. His work combines molecular biology and artificial intelligence technology to develop innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for HCC. Bridging basic science and clinical application, Prof. Nishida’s research advances precision medicine and offers novel strategies for improving patient outcomes in liver cancer. Learn more about him here.

A good academic paper, in Prof. Nishida’s opinion, presents a unique idea, supported by rigorous evidence and clear causal reasoning. It should also tell a compelling scientific story—engaging, logical, and insightful. When originality, analytical depth, and narrative clarity align, the paper can make a strong and lasting impact.

When preparing a paper, Prof. Nishida believes that authors should first review key prior studies in the field to understand the existing knowledge and identify gaps. It is essential to clearly position the research as addressing a specific unmet need or unanswered question. In addition, creating a “killer figure” that visually highlights the novelty and impact of the findings is crucial for effectively communicating the contribution.

“I chose to publish in HBSN because its broad scope closely matches my research on innovative diagnostics and therapies for liver cancer. The journal’s focus on both clinical and basic science in hepatopancreatobiliary diseases makes it an ideal platform to share findings with a multidisciplinary audience,” says Prof. Nishida.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Laurin Rauter

Laurin Rauter, MSc, is a PhD candidate at the Department of General Surgery, Division of Transplantation, Medical University of Vienna, Austria. With a Bachelor in Genetics, a Master in Molecular Biology, and close to finishing his PhD, he has studied and worked across a broad spectrum of life sciences. His present research interest is in hypothermic and normothermic machine perfusion in liver transplantation, and particularly in liver reconditioning and assessment of viability biomarkers. His background in experimental pharmacology and molecular regulation of organ failure is perfectly translated into the field of transplantation.

In Laurin’s opinion, a good academic paper tackles a relevant research question from different angles, and considers alternative and unfavorable explanations for reported phenomena. A good paper presents data in a way that a congruent story unfolds in front of the readers, instead of fitting the data to the story. When written well, a paper discusses its own weaknesses and is reported without exaggerations to let the readers be the investigator and find the strengths.

One of the most common challenges in academic writing, according to Laurin, is integrating multiple perspectives into a coherent narrative. As an author, one often needs to reconcile differing priorities and interpretations from co-authors as well as reviewers - what one sees as central, another may consider peripheral. To him, balancing these viewpoints can be difficult, especially when they conflict with one’s own view. However, this process ultimately strengthens the manuscript and helps move the field forward through collective insight.

“What fascinates me about academic writing is how the act of writing itself shapes the story. You may begin with a clear focus based on your results, but as you write, revise and reflect, the narrative evolves. Entire sections, or even the whole paper, can feel complete only to be rewritten repeatedly. Along the way, new insights emerge, while some earlier ideas may no longer hold up. In the end, it is this constant refinement and collaboration that transform raw data into meaningful knowledge,” says Laurin.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Hassan Aziz

Dr. Hassan Aziz is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Iowa, specializing in transplant and hepatobiliary (HPB) surgery. He serves as the Program Director for the Transplant Surgery Fellowship and leads the Surgical Outcomes Group, which mentors students and surgical residents in publishing high-impact research focused on liver, pancreas, and biliary surgery. His academic interests include disparities in access to transplantation, surgical education, and quality of life after liver resection. Dr. Aziz has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and is actively involved in national collaborative projects, including multicenter studies on liver metastases and organ allocation. He is also committed to mentoring the next generation of surgical scientists and improving the design and dissemination of clinical research on HPB surgery. Learn more about him here, and follow him on X.

Dr. Aziz believes that a successful author must be curious, methodical, and persistent. Strong writing skills, critical thinking, and the ability to synthesize complex data into clear narratives are essential. Equally important are resilience in the face of rejection and openness to constructive feedback. In academic surgery, the best authors also possess clinical insight that allows them to frame research questions that matter to both patients and the broader medical community.

From Dr. Aziz’s perspective, avoiding bias begins with study design, ensuring appropriate controls, clear inclusion/exclusion criteria, and statistical rigor. In writing, authors must be self-aware and strive to present data objectively, even if results are unexpected or contrary to the initial hypotheses. Engaging co-authors with diverse perspectives and seeking peer review from those outside the immediate research group, also helps mitigate unconscious bias.

“The impact of academic writing extends far beyond publication, it shapes practice, informs policy, and inspires new research,” says Dr. Aziz, “I’m motivated by the opportunity to improve patient outcomes, especially in complex and underserved areas like liver transplantation and HPB Surgery. Mentoring trainees through the writing process also brings deep professional fulfilment. Each manuscript is a step toward building a more evidence-driven and equitable field.”

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Toru Beppu

Toru Beppu, MD, PhD, currently serves as a Clinical Professor of Gastroenterology Surgery at Kumamoto University and as a Director of Yamaga City Medical Center, Japan. His research area is in the multidisciplinary approach to colorectal liver metastases and hepatocellular carcinoma. He is recently involved in projects like The Joint Committee for Nationwide Survey on Colorectal Liver Metastasis, Beppu score, Beppu classification, and RAS-Beppu classification for colorectal liver metastases.

One of the major challenges in academic writing, according to Dr. Beppu, is accessing certain documents or references, particularly those not readily available through standard databases. Additionally, structuring a manuscript to clearly convey clinical significance while adhering to strict formatting guidelines can be demanding, especially for non-native English speakers.

On the other hand, Dr. Beppu points out that balancing clinical duties with academic work is never easy. He adds, “To make time for writing and self-development, we share patient responsibilities across the entire surgical team. We also divide roles among colleagues—for example, radiologists assist with imaging interpretation, pathologists with histological analysis, and biostatisticians with data analysis—to streamline the research process and enhance overall efficiency.”

“Academic writing serves multiple purposes. It supports the growth of junior doctors by helping them obtain specialist and councillor qualifications. It also allows us to leave a legacy for future generations. For example, our nomogram, the Beppu classification, and the RAS-Beppu classification, have contributed to risk stratification in colorectal liver metastases. Documenting and sharing such tools through scientific writing are deeply fulfilling,” says Dr. Beppu.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Mohamed Ali Chaouch

Dr. Mohamed Ali Chaouch is an Assistant Professor of General Surgery at the University Hospital of Monastir, Tunisia. His clinical and academic focus lies in minimally invasive visceral surgery and transplant surgery. He actively contributes to multicenter clinical studies and has a growing portfolio of publications in both surgical innovation and evidence-based medicine. Recently, he has led projects integrating artificial intelligence into surgical research and medical writing education, organizing national workshops and speaking at conferences. Dr. Chaouch is also involved in collaborative international studies on liver transplantation and colorectal surgery, and serves as a research mentor for early-career clinicians in Tunisia. His work bridges clinical excellence and educational reform, with a strong emphasis on immersive simulation-based training and competency-based medical education. Follow him on ‪Google Scholar, ResearchGate and LinkedIn.

According to Dr.Chaouch, academic writing is the backbone of scientific communication. It allows researchers to share discoveries, validate findings, and contribute to the global body of knowledge. Through peer-reviewed publications, academic writing ensures that knowledge is transparent, reproducible, and subject to critical scrutiny. It fosters collaboration across disciplines and borders, ultimately advancing both science and clinical practice. High-quality academic writing also plays a pivotal role in influencing health policies and shaping the future of precision medicine.

In Dr.Chaouch’s view, critical writing requires more than reporting facts. It involves analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. A researcher must question assumptions, compare findings, highlight controversies, and consider alternative interpretations. Structuring arguments logically, supporting claims with robust evidence, and integrating insights from multiple sources are key. Peer feedback, ongoing literature review, and awareness of methodological limitations also strengthen critical thinking in writing. Tools like structured frameworks (e.g., PRISMA, CONSORT) and AI-assisted writing platforms can help enhance this process.

In addition, Dr. Chaouch believes that obtaining Institutional review board (IRB)approval ensures that research involving human subjects meets ethical standards, protecting participants’ rights, safety, and confidentiality. It is essential for maintaining public trust in research and ensuring compliance with national and international regulations. Omitting IRB approval can lead to serious consequences: retraction of published work, loss of funding, institutional penalties, and ethical breaches. Furthermore, journals and academic institutions typically require proof of IRB approval for study validation and publication.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Antonio Cubisino

Dr. Antonio Cubisino is a Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) surgeon at the Department of HPB Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Beaujon Hospital – Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), in Clichy, France. His clinical and academic interests focus on minimally invasive and robotic approaches in the management of complex HPB diseases, including liver and pancreatic surgery, as well as liver transplantation. He completed a fellowship in Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery at the University of Illinois at Chicago under the mentorship of Prof. Pier Cristoforo Giulianotti, a globally recognized pioneer in robotic surgery. His work is driven by a strong commitment to surgical innovation, enhanced recovery, and the continuous improvement of patient outcomes through evidence-based practices. Connect with Dr. Cubisino on LinkedIn.

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

Dr. Cubisino: A good academic paper probably starts with a genuine question. In this sense, the author’s curiosity plays a crucial role and serves as a powerful starting point. Once the right question is in place, it’s not enough to simply describe findings; a structured and critical approach to the topic is essential to ensure high-quality results. This involves not only a rigorous methodology but also a thoughtful engagement with the subject, supported by clear analytical thinking, and evidence-based argumentation. A "must-read" paper should be constructed on a comprehensive review of the existing literature, demonstrating both a deep understanding of the topic and an awareness of unresolved issues in the field. Rather than offering final answers, it should raise new questions for discussion and become a starting point for further inquiry within the scientific community.

HBSN: What authors have to bear in mind during preparation of a paper?

Dr. Cubisino: When preparing a scientific paper, the most important aspect to bear in mind is the contribution it will offer to the scientific community. A manuscript should not simply report data, but provide a meaningful advancement, whether through new insights, techniques, or interpretations. Accordingly, a well-conducted and critical review of the existing literature is essential to clearly position the work within the current body of knowledge and to highlight how it addresses a specific gap or unmet need. Given its potential impact on future research and clinical practice, scientific writing must be rigorous, and transparent, reflecting the integrity of the entire study.

HBSN: Why did you choose to publish in HBSN?

Dr. Cubisino: I chose to publish in HBSN because its scope aligns closely with my research interests. It is a well-recognized and respected journal within the scientific community, known for its high standards and focused readership. Its strong Impact Factor reflects the journal’s academic influence and visibility, which is important not only for sharing meaningful work with a relevant audience but also for acknowledging and valuing the hard work that goes into each study. Publishing in HBSN offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to high-level scientific dialogue and reach a targeted audience of experts in the field.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Tetsuya Shimizu

Dr. Tetsuya Shimizu is a Professor in Gastroenterological Surgery at Nippon Medical School Hospital and Director of the Division of Diagnostic Oncology at its Comprehensive Cancer Center. His clinical and research focus is on complex hepatobiliary-pancreatic diseases, with a special emphasis on the surgical, interventional, and endoscopic treatment of portal hypertension and biliary tract diseases. As a specialist in extrahepatic portal vein obstruction, he has extensive clinical experience and a significant record of research achievements in this field. His advanced skills in open and laparoscopic surgery are board-certified by the Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery and the Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery. He is dedicated to providing patient-centered care tailored to each individual's condition. His work aims to improve surgical strategies for challenging cases, such as the one detailed in his award-winning article, and to contribute new insights that advance the field and enhance patient outcomes globally.

In Dr. Shimizu’s view, a successful academic author, particularly in surgery, requires a blend of several key skills. First, deep clinical expertise and curiosity are essential; researchers’ most important questions and insights arise directly from the patients they care for and the challenges they face in the clinical setting, including the operating room. Second is scientific rigor and critical thinking. One must be able to objectively analyze data, identify true novelty, and logically structure an argument. Third, and perhaps the most crucial, is clear and concise communication. Findings are meaningless unless they can be clearly understood by peers around the world. Finally, persistence is essential. The process of research, writing, and revision is demanding, and a commitment to seeing it through is fundamental to making a meaningful contribution to the medical literature.

“My motivation to write is driven by two core principles of being a physician-scientist. First and foremost is the desire to improve patient outcomes. Every complex case or unanswered clinical question is an opportunity to find a better solution. By documenting our experiences and innovations in academic papers, we can share that knowledge with the global medical community, potentially helping countless patients beyond our own hospital. My work on challenging abdominal surgeries and interventions in portal hypertension, for example, was motivated by the need to establish safer and more effective procedures for these high-risk patients. Second, I am motivated by a sense of duty to advance our field of hepato-biliary-pancreatic surgery and the treatment of portal hypertension. Sharing insights contributes to the collective knowledge that pushes medicine forward. It is a way to honor the work of those who has taught me and to provide a foundation for the next generation of surgeons,” say Dr. Shimizu.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Tadahisa Inoue

Dr. Tadahisa Inoue currently serves as an Associate Professor of Medicine in the Department of Gastroenterology at Aichi Medical University, Japan. He earned his M.D. from Aichi Medical University in 2008 and is recognized as a dedicated and enthusiastic endoscopist. He is an active council member of the Japanese Society of Gastroenterology and the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society, and also serves as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Gastroenterology. Dr. Inoue’s primary research interests lie in pancreaticobiliary diseases, with a particular focus on advanced interventional endoscopic techniques, including Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) and Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). He has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed articles as first author in these fields. In addition to his academic contributions, he is actively engaged in the development of novel endoscopic devices for pancreaticobiliary interventions. He has secured over JPY 400 million in competitive public research funding, underscoring his strong commitment to innovation and advancement in endoscopic medicine.

Dr. Inoue believes that academic writing serves as the cornerstone of scientific communication. It allows researchers to share their findings in a structured, transparent, and reproducible manner, thereby advancing collective knowledge. Through rigorous writing, discoveries can be critically evaluated, replicated, and integrated into clinical practice. To him, precise documentation of procedures, outcomes, and adverse events is particularly important in the field of gastroenterology and endoscopy, as it directly influences patient care and guides the development of novel therapeutic approaches.

In Dr. Inoue’s view, critical writing begins with the willingness to challenge one’s own work. In clinical endoscopy, procedures are often technically successful, but their true value lies in whether they meaningfully improve patient outcomes. Therefore, he tries to go beyond reporting technical feasibility and ask: “Does this intervention really change the natural course of the disease?” Placing results in the context of both successes and failures of prior studies, and explicitly stating the uncertainties, help ensure that the writing is balanced and constructive. For him, critical writing is less about highlighting novelty alone, and more about clarifying where the evidence genuinely advances the field and where important gaps remain.

“Especially in the field of advanced endoscopy, many of our procedures push the boundaries of established practice. This makes institutional review board (IRB) oversight essential, not only to protect patients, but also to demonstrate to peers that the research was conducted responsibly. In my experience, IRB review also strengthens the study design, as the process requires us to justify risks, endpoints, and monitoring in detail. Without IRB approval, patients may be exposed to unnecessary risks, and even valuable data may be regarded as invalid or unpublishable. Ultimately, IRB approval is not a formality; it is the foundation that transforms innovative ideas into credible science that can be shared and built upon,” says Dr. Inoue.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Luca Viganò

Luca Viganò is Chief of the Hepatobiliary Unit at Humanitas Gavazzeni Hospital, Bergamo, Italy, and Associate Professor of Surgery at Humanitas University, Milan. His research focuses on liver cancers, including outcomes after potentially curative treatment, prognosis prediction, and multidisciplinary care. He investigates liver tumor pathology and non-tumoral parenchyma to identify prognostic factors, and has recently applied artificial intelligence and radiomics to integrate imaging biomarkers into clinical practice. Dr. Viganò is the PI of the AIRC-funded project “Radiomic features of tumor and liver-tumor interface in colorectal liver metastases” and has proposed a virtual liver biopsy for non-invasive liver assessment. He has authored over 200 peer-reviewed papers, with 7500+ citations (H-index 50). He holds a Ph.D. in Hepatobiliary Oncology, completed a Clinical Fellowship in Paris on minimally invasive liver surgery and transplantation, and coordinates international liver cancer studies. He serves as Associate Editor of Digestive Surgery and Updates in Surgery and contributes to Italian HCC guidelines. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

In Dr. Viganò’s opinion, academic medical writing faces challenges in maintaining an unbiased literature review, as researchers may favor their own findings or confirmatory studies. Balancing originality with scientific rigor, accurately interpreting results without overstatement, and distinguishing between primary and secondary endpoints are also difficult. Additionally, managing multiple clinically relevant signals and objectively evaluating study limitations require transparency and a constructive approach to guide future research.

Dr. Viganò allocates time for writing outside of regular working hours, often dedicating evenings, weekends, or even late nights. He thinks this can be challenging and requires strong determination, as writing demands both time and concentration. However, he sees it as part of the job, because writing cannot be separated from full clinical practice and a multidisciplinary environment, which are essential for generating ideas and ensuring that research remains clinically relevant. Much of his inspiration comes from daily clinical questions and real-life cases, which often highlight gaps in knowledge, new challenges in practice, insights into diseases or patients, and unmet needs that research should address. Writing and clinical practice complement each other, with the former nourished by the latter. Everyday patient care provides the ideas and motivation, which he then tries to transform into meaningful scientific contributions through dedicated writing time.

“The most fascinating aspect of medical writing is its potential to be innovative and to influence clinical practice. Well-conducted research and clear reporting can truly change the way we treat patients, and this should be the ultimate aim of any researchers: to provide evidence that addresses unmet needs encountered in daily clinical practice,” says Dr. Viganò.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Jinsoo Rhu

Dr. Jinsoo Rhu, MD, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Surgery at Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, South Korea. He is a transplant surgeon specializing in hepatobiliary surgery and living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). His clinical and research focus includes minimally invasive donor hepatectomy (laparoscopic and robotic approaches), graft safety, and surgical innovation. Dr. Rhu has been actively engaged in developing AI-based volumetry and 3D surgical simulation platforms, such as LIVERAIZ, to enhance preoperative planning and donor–recipient matching. Recently, his projects have centered on integrating 3D modeling, deep learning, and augmented reality systems to optimize outcomes in liver transplantation and resection surgery. The company LIVERAIZ has been established to fulfil the needs of surgeons all around the world by developing solutions, and is inevitable to become a commercial company to scale up to the needs of medical experts. Check out more information about it here.

In Dr. Rhu’s view, an author should have precision in research, logical structuring of ideas, and commitment to scientific integrity. To him, clear communication, critical thinking, and openness to peer feedback are also essential qualities that strengthen the impact of manuscripts.

As a surgeon with demanding clinical responsibilities, Dr. Rhu plans writing in structured intervals, often during protected early-morning or late-night hours. He also relies on close collaboration with colleagues, residents, and research fellows to distribute workload and maintain progress. Setting short, achievable milestones helps him balance surgery, teaching, and research. He adds, “Recently, I have founded a startup company and become busier than before. This has led to even less engagement to research. I consider this as another challenge in which scientist/doctor/entrepreneur can struggle with limited time enabled to a single person. However, as a surgeon trained to treat people, I believe that I need to commit to my calling and back down only when a sufficient substitute can be ensured for the patients.”

In addition, Dr. Rhu stresses that reporting guidelines provide a standardized framework that enhances clarity, transparency, and reproducibility. They minimize bias, improve peer-review efficiency, and ensure that studies contribute meaningfully to evidence-based practice. Adhering to them is not only beneficial for acceptance in reputable journals but also critical for scientific credibility and patient care.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Chahrazed Dous

Chahrazed Dous, MD, is a graduate of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Batna 2. She completed her emergency training at the University Hospital Center of Batna and her oncologic surgical training at the Cancer Center in Batna City. She is currently working as a general surgeon at the Public Hospital of Theniet El Abed, Batna, Algeria. Despite being an early-career surgeon and researcher, she has great enthusiasm for scientific publication, especially in oncological surgery, medical education, and scientific reviewing. She is interested in all fields of oncological surgery, with a particular focus on innovation and minimally invasive surgery, as well as any opportunities to further develop her academic and technical skills. Connect with her on LinkedIn.

From Dr. Dous’s point of view, the essential elements of a good paper, especially in the era of artificial intelligence, are to avoid any misconduct in scientific research and methodology, as well as any fraudulent creation of results. The main challenge in academia today is ethics, and a good paper should always be the outcome of clear and genuine work. In her opinion, authors, when constructing a paper, should keep three key points in mind: having a clear purpose, making a solid plan, and selecting good co-authors.

"I had the honor to publish in HBSN. Publishing in this recognized journal added significant value and recognition to my work, which aligns with my academic and professional aspirations. The experience of publishing with HBSN was truly valuable, and I look forward to making further contributions and engaging in meaningful research that advances both surgical practice and academic knowledge," says Dr. Dous.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Koichiro Hata

Prof. Koichiro Hata serves as the Deputy Director of Medical Care and the Director of Surgery at Kyoto City Hospital, and Clinical Professor at the Faculty of Medicine of Kyoto University. He specializes in hepatobiliary-pancreatic (HBP) surgery and liver transplantation, with particular emphasis on complex vascular reconstructions. Until 2023, he was Associate Professor in the Division of HBP Surgery and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, and concurrently the Director of Organ Transplant Unit at Kyoto University Hospital. Over his 30-year surgical career, including more than two decades at Kyoto University, he has made sustained contributions to advanced surgical practice, research, and education. Recently, he has expanded his extensive experience to robotic HBP surgeries. Internationally, he serves as the Japan representative for European Society for Surgical Research (ESSR) and a board member of German–Japanese Society for Study of Liver Surgery (GJSSLS), while actively engaging in multiple Japanese surgical and transplant societies.

According to Prof. Hata, an author should combine scientific curiosity, integrity, and perseverance. Curiosity drives new ideas, while integrity ensures transparency and accuracy. Perseverance allows one to persist through the often demanding process of revision and peer review. Furthermore, outstanding authors must be open to criticism and maintain humility in receiving feedback from their peers and readers.

Prof. Hata lays emphasis on the use of reporting guidelines when constructing a paper. To him, these guidelines not only enhance transparency and reproducibility but also help authors ensure that no essential information is overlooked. They are particularly valuable for maintaining consistency across studies and facilitating fair peer review. Adherence to reporting guidelines, in his view, is fundamental to producing credible and clinically meaningful research.

“Time management is indeed a challenge for clinicians, particularly for liver transplant and/or HBP surgeons, engaged in both patient care and research. Short intervals between surgeries or clinical duties serve as valuable writing windows. I currently set dedicated writing hours early in the morning, when my mind is clear and distractions are minimal. Now that I'm in my 50s, getting up early is not a pain anymore… lol,” says Prof. Hata.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Artur Rebelo

Dr. Artur Rebelo is a board-certified specialist in visceral and vascular surgery and Senior Consultant in Surgical Oncology at the University Hospital Halle (Saale), Germany. He holds European and American fellowships (FEBVS, FEBS, FACS) and completed his medical and postgraduate training in Lisbon, Italy, and Berlin. His clinical and research interests focus on pancreatic and hepatobiliary surgery, vascular involvement in oncologic resections, and the integration of robotic and endovascular techniques in complex abdominal operations. Dr. Rebelo leads and collaborates in several international multicenter studies and consortia on pancreatic cancer, including projects on surgical outcomes, socioeconomic disparities, and digital innovation in perioperative care. His recent work also explores sustainability and mentorship in academic surgery, aiming to improve evidence-based and equitable surgical care. Follow him on LinkedIn, ResearchGate and X.

Academic writing, according to Dr. Rebelo, is essential for the creation, validation, and dissemination of scientific evidence. It enables researchers to communicate findings transparently, allows others to reproduce or challenge results, and collectively advances scientific knowledge and innovation.

In Dr. Rebelo’s opinion, critical academic writing goes beyond summarizing existing knowledge. It involves analyzing, comparing, and integrating different perspectives. It reflects independent thinking, logical argumentation, and the ability to connect ideas across studies, fostering scholarly dialogue and collaboration within the academic community.

In addition, Dr. Rebelo stresses that institutional review board (IRB) approval ensures that research involving human participants complies with ethical standards such as the Declaration of Helsinki, protecting participants’ rights, safety, and welfare. If this process is omitted, the research may not be ethically or scientifically valid, cannot be published in reputable journals, and may have legal or institutional consequences.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Mina S. Makary

Dr. Mina S. Makary, MD, is a dual board-certified interventional and diagnostic radiologist, the Director of radiology scholarly activity and research, Director of the Interventional Radiology APP inpatient service, and Director of the interventional radiology clerkship at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. He has authored over 200 manuscripts and abstracts, and is an active leader nationally in the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) and the American College of Radiology (ACR). Dr. Makary specializes in interventional oncology, venous disease and reconstruction, complex hepatobiliary care, and genitourinary interventions, and has special expertise in embolization therapy of symptomatic uterine fibroids, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and painful knee osteoarthritis. He is passionate about patient outcome betterment and novel minimally-invasive therapy development, as well as quality improvement and innovation in the interventional arena. Learn more about Dr. Makary here and follow him on X.

HBSN: What do you regard as a good academic paper?

Dr. Makary: A good manuscript starts with a sharply defined question and a clear statement of why it matters. It situates that question within the existing literature, explains what is genuinely new, and uses methods that are appropriate, transparent, and reproducible. Results are presented economically with figures and tables that earn their keep, and the text distinguishes clearly between findings and interpretation. The discussion is cautious but insightful, acknowledges limitations and alternative explanations, and shows how the work advances theory, practice, or policy. The writing is precise and readable, terminology is consistent, and the paper adheres to ethical and reporting standards. In short, it tells a coherent, evidence-based story that others can build on.

HBSN: What are the most commonly encountered difficulties in academic writing?

Dr. Makary: Authors most often struggle to narrow the scope, trying to answer too many questions at once. Many papers read as “data dumps” because the argument isn’t outlined before drafting, so paragraphs don’t build logically. Jargon, nominalizations, and passive constructions can obscure meaning and inflate word count. Writers sometimes conflate results with interpretation, leading to overstatement in the discussion. Figures/tables and text can drift out of alignment, with key takeaways missing from the narrative. Citation management, including both over- or under-citation, or weak synthesis of prior work, frequently causes problems. Finally, tailoring to a journal’s audience and style, and then responding effectively to peer review, can be challenging without a coordinated plan among co-authors.

HBSN: What is fascinating about academic writing?

Dr. Makary: Academic writing is where thinking becomes visible: careful choices of structure and wording turn messy ideas and data into cumulative knowledge. It’s a conversation across time: you position your work among others’ and watch the field move because of precise claims anyone can test. The revision process is especially compelling, as each pass clarifies the question, tightens the evidence, and strengthens the logic. And at its best, the genre marries craft and impact, with clean prose, honest methods, and transparent reporting that can change how people understand a problem or how practitioners act on it.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Tsubasa Tsutsumi

Dr. Tsubasa Tsutsumi graduated from Kurume University School of Medicine in 2009 and later earned his Ph.D. from the same institution's graduate school. In 2024, he joined the University of Chicago as a Staff Scientist in the Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition within the Department of Medicine. His research primarily focuses on the significance of metabolic abnormalities in steatotic liver disease (SLD) and the association between SLD and diseases affecting multiple other organs. One of his recent projects involves analyzing the relationship between abnormal intramuscular fat distribution, as assessed by advanced MRI techniques, and the prognosis of patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Connect with Dr. Tsutsumi on LinkedIn.

HBSN: What are the key skill sets of an author?

Dr. Tsutsumi: The skill sets required for research are diverse, covering areas like statistical analysis and language proficiency, but I don't think it's necessary to have all of them at the beginning. Rather, it's more important to humbly learn from the excellent researchers around you. To do this, actively participating in academic conferences both domestically and internationally to look for collaborators is crucial for sustaining and elevating the quality of your research. I believe the essential skill for a researcher isn't a specific technique like statistical skill, but rather an attitude of continuous learning. And, it is vital to never forget to show gratitude to your collaborators.

HBSN: How to avoid biases in one’s writing?

Dr. Tsutsumi: This is a very important and difficult challenge. As humans, I think we all inevitably have expectations—in other words, biases. What I am careful about is, first, to clearly define the “goal” (the primary endpoint) before starting the research. This is to prevent conveniently changing the goalposts midway. Also, during the course of the research, when I encounter “inconvenient data”, I try to suspect that this might actually be the most important signal. And above all, I make it a point to humbly ask collaborators with different perspectives, especially statistical experts, to “please review this strictly”. It's impossible to have a perfect perspective on your own.

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

Dr. Tsutsumi: My motivation comes from a strong sense of mission regarding the challenges Japan faces as a nation. As you know, Japan is the most aged society in the world. The prevalence of MASLD itself may not differ greatly from other countries, but the treatment strategies for elderly patients must be fundamentally different from those for younger people. Nutritional therapy, in particular, requires an absolute "gear change" that considers sarcopenia and frailty, rather than simple caloric restriction. However, it has not yet been clarified globally what kind of nutritional or drug therapy is effective for patients in what specific condition. In the future, many countries around the world will catch up to Japan's current situation. As a nation facing these challenges ahead of others, we cannot simply wait for research to begin only when that time comes. I believe that we, as Japanese researchers, leading this field and building evidence for elderly patients with MASLD, will ultimately contribute to improving the well-being of people worldwide. That is the greatest motivation that drives me to conduct research and write.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Wissam Benhami

Wissam Benhami is a freshly graduated general surgeon from the University of Algiers, currently practicing at Clinique RAHMOUNI Djilali (formerly Les Orangers). While she maintains broad interests across all surgical fields as most young surgeons are, her growing passion lies in oncologic research, particularly in pancreatic and hepatobiliary surgery. She finds the pancreas uniquely fascinating, complex, unpredictable, and full of challenges that continue to intrigue both surgeons and researchers. She is driven by curiosity and a desire to contribute to advancing knowledge. For her, academic writing is not only a way to share insights but also an opportunity to reflect on daily clinical experiences with thoughtfulness, humility, and intellectual curiosity. Connect with Dr. Benhami on LinkedIn.

Academic writing can be challenging, according to Dr. Benhami, because it requires precision and critical thinking at every stage. One common difficulty is transforming complex clinical or scientific ideas into concise and well-structured text. It can also be challenging to remain objective while highlighting the significance of one’s work. In addition, finding the right balance between scientific rigor and readability, so that the manuscript communicates the findings clearly while remaining accurate, often requires multiple rounds of revision and careful reflection.

Dr. Benhami considers writing papers a personal challenge, and she has been influenced by the principles of Atomic Habits. She focuses on making small, consistent progress each day, which has become her guiding rule. She also sets clear goals and creates her own deadlines to stay on track. Additionally, she seeks feedback from mentors who are very demanding, as their guidance motivates her to write regularly and improve her work. This combination of daily effort, structured planning, and mentorship helps her balance writing with clinical responsibilities.

“What I find most fascinating about academic writing is that it allows me to transform clinical experience and scientific curiosity into something tangible that can potentially benefit others,” says Dr. Benhami, “There is a deeply personal aspect to it: much like completing a piece of art, or giving birth to a project, I alone know the countless hours of reading, reflection, and effort invested to reach the final manuscript. Academic writing is a creative process, where each paper tells a unique scientific story, grounded in evidence yet shaped by interpretation, analysis, and perseverance.”

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Pawel Rogalski

Pawel Rogalski, MD, PhD, is a specialist in internal medicine and gastroenterology at the Department of Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine of the Medical University of Bialystok and the University Clinical Hospital in Bialystok, Poland. His earlier work advanced understanding of chronic liver disease complications, including gastrointestinal bleeding and coagulation disorders. His current projects explore the systemic effects of cholestasis of different etiologies – on coagulation parameters, lipid disturbances and broader metabolic profiles. Clinically, he is an active interventional endoscopist performing ERCP, EMR, ESD, full-thickness resection, and POEM, contributing to multicenter research. He is also engaged in training programs at both national and European levels, supporting the development of the next generation of therapeutic endoscopists.

A key skill for an author in clinical research, according to Dr. Rogalski, is the ability to make sense of complex datasets and multiple clinical variables, and to present a clear message without losing the clinical background. It is also important to look at a problem more broadly, because important insights often arise where different areas of medicine meet. Another valuable skill is a practical understanding of how studies can be carried out in everyday clinical work – designing projects that are feasible, realistic, compatible with routine care and methodologically solid. Collaboration is equally important; advanced laboratory methods and adequate patient numbers are rarely available in a single center, so working across institutions often improves both recruitment and the overall quality of a study.

In Dr. Rogalski’s opinion, avoiding bias starts with formulating a clear clinical question – one that remains meaningful regardless of whether the result confirms or disproves the expected association. This helps avoid pushing the analysis toward a preferred outcome. Once the question is defined, the study must be designed so that the required data are realistic to collect and of the highest achievable quality. Clean, well-organized data are essential; without them, controlling bias later becomes very difficult. During analysis, he follows a consistent set of established steps and avoids adjusting methods based on early impressions. Feedback from co-authors and reviewers often adds perspective and helps refine the interpretation. He prefers a concise, factual writing style, as it helps avoid overinterpretation.

“What motivates me to write most is the challenge itself. It often feels a bit like climbing – demanding but satisfying as you move step by step. I’m also motivated by the chance to keep developing as a clinician and researcher; research gives a clear sense of steady progress. Knowing that the outcome may bring something useful back to clinical practice adds an important sense of purpose. The analytical stage is often the most motivating moment – when the data finally start to answer the question, the excitement is real. I also value the process of building a project from the ground up. It feels like constructing a building: turning a clinical question into data, then into an analysis and finally into a manuscript creates a structure that becomes clearer with each step, and putting the pieces together is very satisfying. A significant part of my work has also grown out of close scientific collaboration with my wife, a hepatologist and infectious disease specialist; working together on study design, data interpretation and writing has been both productive and genuinely motivating, and the support of our broader research team has been equally important, making the whole process more efficient and inspiring,” says Dr. Rogalski.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Masato Yoneda

Masato Yoneda, MD, PhD, is a Professor and the Chair of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Yokohama City University, Japan. He is an internationally recognized expert in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), with a focus on non-invasive diagnosis and prognostic stratification using vibration-controlled transient elastography and MR elastography. He serves as a principal investigator and steering committee member for multiple international MASLD and MASH cohorts and clinical trials, and has contributed to the development of global guidelines and consensus statements. His work aims to translate advanced imaging and biomarkers into routine clinical practice to improve long-term outcomes in MASLD. Dr. Yoneda has received numerous academic honors, including the UEG Week Best Abstract and Travel Grant Awards, the Hepatology research High Citation Award, the Journal of Gastroenterology High Citation Award (three times), the Aoki Award, the Yokohama City University Medical Society Award, and the President’s and Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Faculty. Learn more about him here, and follow him on X and Instagram.

HBSN: What are the most commonly encountered difficulties in academic writing?

Dr. Yoneda: A major challenge is whether our academic writing truly leads to implementation in real-world clinical practice. In the field of MASLD, generating statistically significant results is not enough; research must be translated into tools, pathways, and decisions that clinicians can actually use at the bedside. I believe that even small, carefully designed studies can create meaningful progress if they are aligned with real clinical needs. Each small breakthrough—whether in diagnostics, risk stratification, or treatment strategies—may seem modest on its own, but when accumulated over a decade, these steps can become a substantial leap forward. In this way, academic writing should function not only as a scientific record, but as a bridge that connects discovery to daily patient care.

HBSN: The burden of being a scientist/doctor is heavy. How do you allocate time to write papers?

Dr. Yoneda: The burden of being both a scientist and a physician is indeed heavy. I do not think there is a perfect balance, but even in the midst of a very busy clinical and administrative schedule, I try to secure small but regular blocks of time for writing. Much of my writing takes place early in the morning, late at night, or while traveling, when interruptions are minimal. More importantly, I do not separate writing from my daily clinical and research activities; instead, I turn clinical questions, registry data, and collaborative discussions directly into manuscripts. In this sense, writing is not a special task, but a process that gives structure and meaning to everyday patient care and research. Because writing can easily narrow one’s perspective, I consciously make an effort to look beyond my immediate field and follow a broader range of medical topics and societal news. This helps me place my own research in a wider context, and sometimes it even leads to new ideas for the next project. I find that these small habits are surprisingly important for sustaining long-term productivity and creativity in academic writing.

HBSN: What is fascinating about academic writing?

Dr. Yoneda: What is fascinating about academic writing is the moment when something you have sensed intuitively can finally be put into words, allowing knowledge and concepts to expand. When an observation that was once only a feeling becomes a clear hypothesis or a defined framework, it opens the door to deeper understanding. I am also fascinated by the experience of encountering a paper that answers the same questions I have been struggling with. In those moments, I realize that my clinical intuition is not isolated, but part of a shared scientific reality. That sense of connection—between personal insight and collective knowledge—is one of the most rewarding aspects of academic writing.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Atsushi Ono

Atsushi Ono, MD, PhD, is a Lecturer in the Department of Gastroenterology and Metabolism at Hiroshima University, Japan. He is a hepatologist and clinical researcher whose primary interests include hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and chronic liver diseases, such as viral hepatitis, alcohol-associated liver disease, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. His research integrates clinical cohort studies, biomarker discovery, and translational research, with a particular focus on immunotherapy, molecular predictors of treatment response, and risk stratification for hepatocarcinogenesis. In recent years, he has concentrated on identifying serum and genetic biomarkers associated with outcomes of first-line systemic therapies for advanced HCC, as well as on evaluating long-term liver-related outcomes in patients with chronic liver disease. Through these efforts, he aims to contribute to precision medicine and individualized therapeutic strategies in hepatology. Follow him on ORCID.

A good academic paper, in Dr. Ono’s view, addresses a clinically or scientifically meaningful question, employs an appropriate and transparent methodology, and presents results that are reproducible and interpretable. In addition to technical rigor, it is essential that the paper clearly explains why the study is important and how it advances existing knowledge or clinical practice. Even strong data can lose their impact if the message is unclear; therefore, a logical structure and clarity of writing are indispensable. Figures and tables should also be intuitive and easy to understand, allowing readers to grasp the key findings at a glance.

According to Dr. Ono, one of the most common challenges in academic writing is communicating complex ideas in a concise and logical manner. Researchers are often deeply familiar with their own data, which can make it difficult to anticipate where readers may struggle. This is particularly true in translational research, where the readership spans diverse backgrounds in expertise, knowledge, and interests. At the same time, manuscripts that are overly simplified to appeal to the widest possible audience may fail to convey sufficient scientific depth. Additionally, especially for non-native English speakers, maintaining an appropriate balance between scientific accuracy and readability is a major challenge. Revising manuscripts to improve clarity without compromising scientific rigor is often the most time-consuming part of the writing process.

“What I find fascinating about academic writing is its ability to transform individual observations into shared knowledge. It is exciting to think that data generated by our research group may influence researchers and clinicians around the world. I am also genuinely thrilled when I receive unexpected feedback on my work from readers whom I have never met. Ultimately, academic writing is a powerful means of connecting discovery, discussion, and progress in medicine,” says Dr. Ono.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Masanori Fukushima

Masanori Fukushima, MD, PhD, graduated from Nagasaki University School of Medicine in 2008 and earned his doctoral degree at the same institution. From 2016 to 2018, he worked as a research fellow at the Mayo Clinic (USA), where he was involved in translational research. He is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. His clinical specialty is liver disease, and his research focuses on liver fibrosis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and complications of liver cirrhosis.

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

Dr. Fukushima: To ensure that my writing remains critical, I make a conscious effort to reassess my arguments from an objective perspective and to avoid becoming overly attached to my own interpretations. As I write, I consistently question whether my conclusions are fully supported by the data or whether I am extending beyond what the results justify. I also pay close attention to the limitations of my research and explicitly acknowledge them, ensuring that the discussion remains grounded in evidence rather than speculation. In addition, I try to anticipate potential critical questions from readers and reviewers, and strengthen my arguments by supporting them with appropriate references from the existing literature. I believe that the ability to write critically is refined over time through accumulated knowledge and clinical and research experience. It is a skill that develops gradually over the course of one’s career and requires continuous self-reflection, learning, and feedback from colleagues and peer reviewers.

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

Dr. Fukushima: Academic writing requires significant time and effort, but my primary motivation comes from a genuine desire to explore questions that I personally want to understand more deeply. Research allows me to systematically examine uncertainties that arise in daily clinical practice. As a physician, I also find great motivation in knowing that the knowledge gained through research can directly support my clinical decision-making and improve patient care starting from the very next day. Contributing to better outcomes for patients gives the research process strong personal meaning. In addition, transforming our work into a published paper brings a sense of fulfilment, as it represents the creation of a tangible scholarly contribution. The fact that our findings can be shared with and accessed by clinicians and researchers around the world is particularly rewarding and reinforces my motivation to engage in academic writing.

HBSN: Is it important for authors to disclose Conflict of Interest (COI)?

Dr. Fukushima: Yes, COI disclosure ensures transparency and allows readers to appropriately interpret the study findings. However, the presence of a COI does not automatically undermine the validity of the research. In many cases, leading researchers who are actively involved at the forefront of a field naturally have COIs due to industry collaboration, clinical trials, or guideline development. Therefore, the key point is not to judge research solely based on the existence of a COI, but to develop the ability to critically evaluate the study’s methodology, data quality, and conclusions while taking the disclosed COI into account. In this way, COIs serve as information that supports informed and balanced evaluation rather than automatic distrust.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)

Ricky Harminder Bhogal

Ricky Harminder Bhogal is a Consultant Surgeon at The Royal Marsden Hospital, London, UK. At the hospital, his unit provides both open and robotic surgical approaches for the full spectrum and complexity of hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) cases. To date, Dr. Bhogal has performed over 1,000 HPB oncological resections. He is a Fellow of the Faculty of Surgical Trainers and serves as an examiner for the Royal College of Surgeons. He is the joint lead of the Upper GI Surgical Oncology Research Group at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London, UK. His primary research interests include CT radiomics, strategies to reduce postoperative pancreatic fistula, and neoadjuvant treatment approaches for pancreatic cancer. He has authored over 100 peer-reviewed manuscripts and several book chapters. Follow him on LinkedIn and ResearchGate.

A good academic paper, in Dr. Bhogal’s opinion, should deliver a clear message supported by evidence of its relevance to clinical or surgical practice. Its foundation lies in a robust Methods section, which many experts read first, as rigorous methodology enables stronger conclusions from the results. In the Results section, clear explanations of any deviations from the planned protocol aid full understanding. The Discussion benefits from openly addressing study limitations, helping readers gauge the findings' context and broader applicability in surgical practice. No study is perfect, but this framework allows readers to place results and conclusions in proper perspective and judge whether the evidence justifies changing clinical practice.

According to Dr. Bhogal, the preparation of a good academic paper varies by type (e.g., randomized trial vs. retrospective study), but core principles remain similar. Authors must thoroughly know the subject area, key prior studies, and relevant literature to place their findings in proper context. In the Introduction, this knowledge enables a clear statement of the specific literature gap addressed and its clinical or scientific importance. The Methods section requires clarity and rigor, as previously emphasized. The Results section should present data objectively—without interpretation or commentary—using clear presentation to highlight key findings and facilitate reader assessment. Authors must critically evaluate their study’s strengths and limitations to draw balanced, measured conclusions in the Discussion.

“I publish with HBSN as it is a well respected and impactful journal with a wide readership globally. The journal has published many important and landmark studies and paper in HPB surgery. The peer-review process is fair, robust and transparent and results in many excellent papers being published. The journal provides excellent author support and is very responsive to author queries during the submission and post-acceptance phase,” says Dr. Bhogal.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)