In recent years, a new actor has emerged in the realm of scientific publishing, one whose influence directly reaches every corner of the academic publication process, from authors to editors. This actor can analyze raw data, draft research articles, and compose detailed discussion sections within seconds. It can critically assess manuscripts, often before peer reviewers have taken their first sip of coffee, and even, in some cases, make judgments about publishability, irrespective of editorial policy.

As you may have guessed, this actor is artificial intelligence (AI). Unlike any other technological advancement in history, AI has integrated into our daily lives at an unprecedented pace and it has rapidly become one of the most hotly debated topics in academic publishing. This discourse is likely to continue intensifying in the years ahead.

We are not opposed to the use of AI as a tool to support and streamline our work. However, it is of utmost importance to emphasize that AI still lacks the fundamental quality of authorship: the ability for conscious, independent thought. One of the core requirements of an "original research article" is, undoubtedly, originality itself, and true originality arises from intentional, intellectual effort. Therefore, a manuscript generated using online data and minimal human input remains ethically and academically questionable in terms of originality.

Our journal adopts a balanced stance on this matter. We support its responsible integration to enhance academic workflows, but not at the expense of the ethical principles and originality that underpin scientific inquiry. Our publication policy will continue to evolve, guided by clear, current, and transparent standards that preserve this equilibrium. As AI reshapes both our daily lives and academic processes, we anticipate facing growing ethical challenges and deeper philosophical debates in the near future.

Our journal is among the few cardiovascular surgery journals indexed in both the SCI and SCIE databases that offers open access with no publication fees. With this model, we continue to serve as a platform for global knowledge sharing and academic equity, not only within our country, but also across the international scientific community. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all former editors who have contributed to this journey, particularly the former editors Prof. Soner Sanioğlu, MD and Prof. Serkan Ertugay, MD, for their role in shaping the journal"s academic integrity and for upholding the noble traditions of the Turkish Society of Cardiovascular Surgery.

In this new publishing period, Prof. Serkan Burç Deşer, MD will serve as Managing Editor for cardiovascular surgery, and Prof. Atilla Eroğlu, MD will take on the same role for thoracic surgery. Together, we will work diligently to ensure that all editorial processes are conducted with efficiency, transparency, and the highest ethical standards. I would also like to extend my thanks to our newly appointed associate editors for their dedication and confidence in the future of our journal.

With this strong editorial team, we are entering a more dynamic and inclusive era, both scientifically and in terms of publishing practices. Our goal is to provide a platform for all researchers making valuable contributions to the field, particularly those from underrepresented voices around the world. Supporting scientific diversity and encouraging a wide range of perspectives will be at the heart of our mission.

We wish all our contributors a successful and impactful new publication season.

Sincerely,
Editor-in-Chief