In 2026, many authors bring new findings, practical information on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to thoracic disease to our journal. Their articles published with us have received very well feedback in the field and stimulate a lot of discussions and new insights among the peers.

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

Outstanding Authors (2026)

Hatem Tolba, University of Missouri–Columbia, USA

Outstanding Author

Hatem Tolba

Dr. Hatem Tolba is a Vascular Neurologist and Neuro-Endovascular fellow at the University of Missouri–Columbia. Prior to his neurology training, he pursed cardiology and interventional cardiology training at the Egyptian National Heart Institute in Cairo, Egypt, where he developed a foundation in catheter-based therapies. He subsequently pursued dedicated research training at the Yale Comprehensive Epilepsy Center before completing his neurology residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin. His academic interests focus on cerebrovascular disease, endovascular therapies, and minimally invasive interventions. Given his dual training, he has a particular interest in the brain–heart axis and the complex interplay between cardiovascular and neurological disease. Dr. Tolba has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications and has presented at major international conferences such as the International Stroke Conference and the Society of Vascular and Interventional Neurology annual meetings. His work aims to advance endovascular approaches and improve patient outcomes through translational research and procedural innovation. Follow him on LinkedIn and X.

Strong academic writing, in Dr. Tolba’s view, requires a combination of scientific rigor, clarity of communication, and, most importantly, intellectual curiosity. A successful author must be able to critically appraise literature, synthesize complex information, and present it in a structured and friendly manner. Attention to detail, methodological understanding, and the ability to interpret data objectively are, however, essential. Equally important to the ability to communicate ideas clearly to a broad audience is to bridge the gap between technical expertise and daily clinical applicability.

According to Dr. Tolba, avoiding bias begins with a conscious commitment to objectivity. This includes using systematic approaches to literature review, clearly defining criteria, and acknowledging limitations transparently as one acknowledges strengths. Authors should rely on data rather than preconceived conclusions. Peer review and collaboration also play a crucial role in identifying and minimizing bias. Maintaining scientific integrity requires constant self-reflection and adherence to evidence-based medical reasoning.

“My primary motivation to engage in academic writing is the potential to contribute to advancing patient care mixed with own scientific curiosity. Academic writing allows all of us to translate clinical observations and research findings into knowledge that can influence practice and improve outcomes. In a rapidly evolving field like neurointervention, sharing insights and innovations is essential for collective progress. For me, the opportunity to be part of that broader scientific dialogue is deeply rewarding,” says Dr. Tolba.

(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)