Since assuming the editorial responsibilities earlier this year, I have had the good fortune to receive both criticism and guidance in directing the from a diverse group of individuals. The common denominator that gels each discussion is an emotional determination to assure that the future of perfusion is fortified. Efforts along this line are multifactorial, yet are based soundly on the foundation of education and science – each of which directs how we apply the applications of perfusion in the clinic. The outcomes are mutually dependent tightly focused on improving the treatment of our patients to assure that the quality of life following cardiac surgery is enhanced. At the forefront of this mandate is the dissemination of knowledge and technique, which originates from the publication of critically reviewed science in accessible sources. It is this challenge which focuses the future direction of the Journal.
There will be a number of changes that take place beginning in Volume 33 of the year 2001. These are the result of the hard work of numerous individuals who come from various ranks: the editorial staff, the Executive Committee and Board of Directors at AmSECT, the printer (Sheridan Press), and perfusionists and clinicians concerned with the perfusion sciences. I am indebted to all who have contributed and offered suggestions, and encourage all to do so in the future.
State of the Journal
The Journal is logistically sound and is directed by an outstanding and renowned editorial staff. The international distribution of editors demonstrates the Journal’s commitment to establish itself throughout the world, distributing timely and pertinent science in the field of perfusion. The total editor number will reach 40 early in the year 2001. The background and experiences of staff members reflect both diversity and specialization in various disciplines within perfusion.
The review process has been formalized with specific instructions created for editorial members. Standardized forms have been created to facilitate ease of manuscript revisions for authors. Time schedules have been devised for editorial review that will assure rapid publication of timely information. Manuscript databases are in place which will ease the process of tracking the progress of paper review.
This year we will begin publishing the proceedings from several conferences in peer-reviewed format. The Hemostasis and Coagulation Management of the Surgical Patient and Pediatric Perfusion meetings have been selected due to core content and high quality of speakers. A supplemental issue on hemostasis and inflammation related to cardiac surgery will be published in mid-2001. Other meeting coordinators are currently working with the editorial staff to facilitate the publishing of their proceedings.
Year 2001 Changes
There will be a number of changes that will occur with the next volume of the Journal. The first and most obvious will be a change in the Journal cover. A graphic artist has submitted a number of layouts for consideration. The designs are located at http://www.unmc.edu/bmc/ject/ject.htm and readers are encouraged to visit this location
to examine the layouts. A vote is being held to select the new cover and all are welcome to
cast their votes by contacting the Editor (astammer@unmc.edu) no later than January 31, 2001.
The Instructions for Authors have been revised to reflect a new format for publishing. In addition the Journal will employ a modified set of instructions for individuals submitting papers directly from the above mentioned meetings.
Beginning in January of 2001 the Journal will have its own website and be accessible from the AmSECT Perfusion Channels. The primary focus will initially be to aid both authors and editors in the publication process. The site will contain all the necessary forms for publication in multiple formats for downloading. The site will also be an entry point for the AmSTACK Database for past Journal manuscripts. This database is functional and up to date, and serves as an outstanding utility for scientific browsing.
The Future
A brief survey will be sent out as a solicitation tool for strategic planning for the editorial staff. The information obtained from readers will be incorporated into the developmental plans for future changes. All are encouraged to have their voice heard by returning the survey to the editorial offices, or by contacting the Editor with any comments concerning the Journal: All are greatly appreciated and none will go unanswered.
The Journal of Extra-Corporeal Technology remains the only publication in America dedicated solely to the study of extracorporeal circulation. It is the oldest and most widely distributed publication in the field of perfusion. Because of this responsibility, the future of the Journal is cautiously bright. Change must occur to insure that the edification of the profession is built upon bulwark not susceptible to slings and arrows. Although we examine the past, we use the continued hallmarks of perfusion - creativity and ingenuity – as the guideposts in preparing for the future.
Alfred H. Stammers, MSA, CCP
Editor
Journal of Extra-Corporeal Technology