In 2025, many CCO 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)
Annemijn D.I. Maan, Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute, The Netherlands
Jia Jia Teo, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
Shara W. Y. Lee, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
Outstanding Author
Annemijn D. I. Maan
Dr. Annemijn D.I. Maan, MD, is a PhD candidate at the Department of Gastroenterlogy and Hepatology at the Erasmus Medical Center Cancer Institute in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Her fields of interest include endoscopic screening and treatment of early esophageal carcinomas. She is currently working on several research projects regarding endoscopic treatment options (both curative and palliative) for esophageal carcinoma, as well as investigating the significance of second primary tumors in the aerodigestive tract. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
According to Dr. Maan, a strong research paper clearly presents its research question, is well-structured and allows readers to quickly grasp the significance and impact of the presented data. Authors should keep it concise and highlight the innovative conclusions.
In Dr. Maan’s view, the answer to what makes a good academic paper is often one of the greatest challenges that writers are facing. Balancing conciseness with the depth of information required can be particularly difficult. To streamline the writing process, it is crucial to plan ahead. She explains, “Establish a clear structure from the outset and consistently keep your core message in focus. Additionally, do not hesitate to make mistakes—seeking feedback from peers is an invaluable part of the learning process. Ultimately, this approach will strengthen your future publications and enhance the clarity of your work.”
“Although developing proficiency in academic writing can be time-consuming, it is essential for the continued dissemination of innovative research. It provides an opportunity to contribute to one's field of expertise, stimulate new discussions, and gain valuable insights that have the potential to influence guidelines and advance healthcare practices,” says Dr. Maan.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Jia Jia Teo
Jia Jia Teo is an MD student at the Medical University of Warsaw, Poland, with a strong interest in neuro-oncology, neurosurgery, and neuroscience. Passionate about brain tumour research and surgical advancements, she focuses on innovative treatment approaches, particularly tracking resistance mutations in brain metastases. With a deep fascination for the complexity of the brain, she actively engages in research while refining clinical skills for a future in neurosurgery. Dedicated to both patient care and scientific progress, she aims to bridge research and surgical practice to improve neurological outcomes. Follow her on LinkedIn.
Key skills for an author, according to Jia Jia, include attention to detail, discipline, and originality. In her view, even a minor mistake can significantly alter the context of a study. Furthermore, ethical integrity, often overlooked in scientific writing, should always be prioritized as a fundamental aspect of the research process.
On the other hand, Jia Jia reckons that a strong research team is essential in addressing biases, and seeking second opinions is always valuable. Moreover, when approaching a research topic, rather than focusing on one side of the debate, it is essential to adopt a holistic perspective to ensure neutrality.
“My motivation for academic writing stems from a genuine desire to uncover unexplored aspects of neurological diseases. The constant stream of questions that arise in my mind drives me to seek answers and contribute to the advancement of my knowledge,” says Jia Jia.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)
Prof. Shara Lee is an Associate Professor in Radiation Therapy at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where she leads the undergraduate Radiation Therapy and Master of Medical Imaging programmes. She has developed the HEROCARE service-education model to improve paediatric radiotherapy experiences, significantly reducing the need for anaesthesia through preparatory workshops that combine clinical rehearsals and multidisciplinary support. These workshops also serve as training platforms for student radiographers, helping them develop skills in professional practice, communication, and patient-centred care. Prof. Lee’s research focuses on multiomics, Photobiomodulation Therapy, and innovative approaches like the HEROCARE project. By incorporating technologies such as the Hybrid Immersive Virtual Environment (HiVE), her work aims to enhance clinical outcomes and improve the treatment experience for paediatric cancer patients. Her efforts reflect a commitment to advancing education and healthcare through collaboration and innovation in radiation therapy and medical imaging. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
In Prof. Lee’s opinion, a good academic paper begins with a valid, clearly defined research question that addresses a specific gap in knowledge. Innovative ideas and novelty are key to making research impactful and relevant. Beyond this, a strong paper must be supported by clear, scientifically sound methodology and robust evaluation methods or outcome measures. These elements ensure that the research question or hypothesis is effectively addressed, providing meaningful and credible insights. Clarity and coherence in presenting the findings further enhance the paper's quality and accessibility to its intended audience.
Prof. Lee highlights that, during the preparation of a paper, it is essential for authors to critically appraise their work from multiple perspectives, much like playing devil’s advocate. This involves revisiting the study and manuscript repeatedly to identify potential arguments or weaknesses while ensuring the strengths of the paper are well-articulated. Authors should also acknowledge and address limitations, as no study is without them. A balanced approach that highlights both strengths and limitations enhances the credibility of the work and demonstrates intellectual honesty, which is highly valued in academic publishing.
“We chose to publish in CCO because of its strong alignment with the scope of our project and its relevance to our field of work. The journal provides an excellent platform for disseminating research to a wide-ranging audience that includes clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals who would benefit from our findings. This ensures that our work reaches those who can apply it most effectively, amplifying its potential impact on clinical practice and future research in related areas,” says Prof. Lee.
(by Brad Li, Masaki Lo)