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Pediatric pulmonology cross‐talk: Refining the dialogue between the journal and the specialty

Eighteen months ago, I took over the role of Editor-inChief ofPediatric Pulmonology.WhenDeputy Editor Terry Noah and I first met to discuss the future of the journal, we asked the question “how great is the scope of this journal that publishes basic and clinical research and reviews for a diverse specialty?” The answer? Very. We found over five dozen fields that could be the principal focus of research for 10 or more years! We also noted that some areas, such as stem cell biology, were advancing rapidly. The number of annual submissions (close to 600) was proving an excessive burden for the small number of Associate Editors. To deal with this challenge, we expanded the number of Associate Editors from three to nine, including two Associate Editors who would develop two new features; reviews and research in the arenas of translationalmedicine and global health. An editorial written by Associate Editor Judith Voynow will soon introduce the journal’s initiative on translational medicine. Our initiative on global health was launched by an excellent editorial in the May 2014 issue by Associate Editor Heather Zar and American Thoracic Society President Thomas Ferkol, which outlined the major challenges to infants and children and the potential benefits of earlier intervention on adult health in the five respiratory conditions that dominate worldwide. To deal with the broadening array of submissions, and to develop a larger cadre of dependable reviewers for themajor topics, an expandedEditorial Boardwill be announced soon. We also noted that with the increased submission of studies on clinical outcomes that the statistical analyses were increasingly diverse and complex. If the need for biostatistical and research design-analysis was not appreciated early, it added to the total length of time for the review process. In responsewe added three biostatisticians, including Paul Stewart of the University of North Carolina, who was appointed as an Associate Editor. We want our reviews to include junior faculty and trainees in an appropriately structured relationship. We have initiated a mentored review system in which earlycareer readers pair with an experienced reviewer to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of manuscripts. If the quality of the review is rated highly by the Associate Editor, and if it is completed in a timely manner, a letter of merit to recognize this contribution is sent to the junior reviewer. The Journal has seen a steady increase in submissions over the past decade, and our rejection rate has had to grow in lockstep so we can maximize the breadth and quality of accepted manuscripts. Peer reviews of submitted manuscript occur in two stages: an initial review that examines the worthiness of the topic and the approach, and a subsequent internal review that critically examines the scientific rigor and the potential contribution and impact on our field. The goal, as it always has been, is to present information that will maximize the contributions of our journal to research, care, and education in our extensive and rapidly changing field. Though our internal dialogues have proven useful for planning and problem-solving, there is a need for greater dialogue with you, the readers. A number of you have emailed me, but we would appreciate more regular input. Please seek out our Associate Editors and members of the Editorial Board at your regional and national meetings. I can be reached by email at murphyeditorppul@hotmail. com. Each reader of the Journal is a stakeholder, and we value your input, suggestions and guidance. In a field that is as diverse and dynamic as ours, your regular input is critical.