.
In Mali, one of the largest countries of the African continent, social protection programmes are a lifeline for vulnerable people. However, data-informed policy-making can be tough. Enter a digital game changer built despite countless practical obstacles – Jeeveeta Soobarah Agnihotri takes us behind the scenes
Medical research serves as a pivot upon which the advancement of clinical practice oscillates. 1 As the future medicine continues to rely on the transition of medical research from evidence to practice, it becomes imperative that those who are involved in this transition are trained well and mentored diligently to ensure optimal patient care and improved health outcomes. 1Medical students are important contributors to the body of scientific knowledge.The discovery of heparin, insulin, sinoatrial node, Klumpke paralysis, and sphincter of oddi are some examples of groundbreaking contributions made by medical students, which serve as proof of their role in the research field. 2 Thus, encouraging early engagement of medical students in research assumes primary importance.
In this insightful interview article, we delve into the life and role of Dr. Russell Van Gelder, MD, Ph.D., Chair of the Ophthalmology Department at the University of Washington and Editor in Chief of Ophthalmology, the Journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Driven by a profound passion for literature, he emphasizes the enduring impact of scientific publications as fundamental to knowledge. He views curating this literature as a privileged responsibility, ensuring its enduring quality. Dr. Van Gelder acknowledges the complexities of predictive editing and the challenges of identifying impactful papers. He let us dig into the editorial process at Ophthalmology as we learn about its rigor, involving meticulous screening, comprehensive reviews, and constructive feedback. For aspiring editors, he underscores the importance of a genuine love for literature and the value of constructive criticism. Dr. Van Gelder addresses common misconceptions about the editor's role, highlights the ethical aspects of publishing, and advocates for a focus on content quality, especially in a world marked by predatory practices. He shares a memorable encounter with the work of Clyde Keeler, a scientist from the early 20th century, underlining the timeless nature of literature as a repository of knowledge that transcends generations. In essence, Russ, as affectionately referred to by colleagues, offers a deep understanding of the life of an editor dedicated to preserving the integrity and excellence of scientific publications in the field of ophthalmology. His perspective is distinctively important for medical students and early careers physicians, underscoring the crucial role that editors play in the advancement of scientific knowledge.
FIGURE 2 Elements of the EEFIt feels like there's no end to this…the different themes that you can explore and the growth that can happen.I can't overstate how foundational the territory is that we've gone through together...it's so fundamental to how we think about our practice around learning.And personally, I've picked up a lot of ways of working... how we come together as a group and talk and bring our full humanity to discussions.
