Medical School Research Articles

A Prospective Observational Study on Analyzing Lung Cancer Gene Mutation Variant Allele Frequency (VAF) and Its Correlation with Treatment Efficacy.

A few studies have reported on the variability of the variant allele frequency (VAF) of gene mutations and the relationship between VAF and the therapeutic effect of molecular-targeted drugs. This joint study was conducted from May 2020 to January 2022 between St. Marianna University School of Medicine and the DNA Chip Research Institute. Cytology samples were used to verify the usefulness of a lung cancer compact panel test, which is a high-sensitivity next-generation sequencing (NGS) gene panel test. We analyzed the distribution of VAF and the duration of the initial molecular-targeted drug administration in patients with advanced-stage epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Of the 196 patients diagnosed with non-small cell carcinoma (NSCLC), gene mutations were detected in 114 (58.2%) cases and in 68.7% of patients with adenocarcinomas (an increased detection rate). A VAF of 30% or more for DNA mutations was confirmed in 35 patients (33.7%), 10% to <30% in 38 (36.5%), and <10% in 31 (29.8%), including 18 patients (17.3%) with <6%, which is considered the lower limit of the LOD for other companion diagnostic kits. EGFR mutations were detected in 59 patients (30%), of whom 35 were in an advanced stage and received molecular-targeted drugs as their initial treatment. Groups A and B comprised patients with a VAF of ≥10% and <10%, respectively, with 27 patients (median VAF 30.6%, range 11.4-77%) in group A and 8 (median VAF 5.4%, range 0.1-8.5%) in group B. The duration of the administration of molecular-targeted drugs was 17 months (range 3-42 months) in group A and 14 months (range 1-45 months) in group B, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p-value = 0.7). Twenty-seven percent of patients had a VAF < 10%. Even in patients with a low VAF for gene mutations, sufficient therapeutic effects were observed with molecular-targeted drugs, suggesting the importance of detecting mutations using a highly sensitive method at initial diagnosis. Further prospective validation studies of a larger number of cases are warranted.

Mental Foramen as a Guide to Establish Sexual Dimorphism among Eastern Indian Population: An Observational Cross-sectional Study on Dry Bones

Abstract Context: The study deals with a role of mental foramen in determining the sexual dimorphism of mandibles as well as generating the sufficient data for the dental surgeons regarding location and measurements of the same. Aims: The aim of the study was to determine the location of mental foramen with respect to the different bony points of mandible and the presence of accessory foramen, if any and to establish sexual dimorphism among mandibles in relation to mental foramen and assessing the role of mento-submental angle for the same. Settings and Design: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted at Medical Colleges of West Bengal. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and eighty dry mandibles were used. Digital images were captured with digital camera after placing the bones in anatomical position for suitable views. Measurements were taken with the help of ImageJ software. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software. Statistical Analysis Used: Measures of central tendency were determined. Significance was tested using the Chi-square test or unpaired Student’s t test, as applicable. Results: Most of the mental foramina were in line with the second premolar tooth or between the first and second premolars. Distance from the alveolar margin and the diameters of foramen were statistically significant among the genders. Mento-submental angle was significantly lower in males as compared to females being &lt;115° and &gt;115°, respectively. The prevalence of accessory mental foramen was very low in both genders. Conclusions: Sexual dimorphism can be well established from the morphometry of mental foramen of mandibles in the Eastern Indian population.

Piloting an Educational Module on Consenting for Exome Sequencing Among Non-Genetics Physicians at a Medical Institution

Introduction: Demand for genetic testing has expanded exome sequencing (ES) utilization into subspecialty clinics without genetics providers. This trend forces non-genetics physicians (NGPs) to facilitate patient consent for genetic testing. However, research on NGPs' knowledge of consent elements (CK) required for ES has not been explored. Methods: Columbia University NGPs were invited to take a survey (premodule survey [PrS]) assessing CK for ES. Educational modules on ES were then created and sent to NGP participants. A postmodule survey (PoS) was sent to NGPs a month later to assess the change in CK scores. Alpha was set at ≤0.05. Results: Nineteen participants completed the PrS and PoS. Overall PrS CK scores were low (mean = 8, SD 1.6). There was no difference in PrS CK scores between attendings and residents/fellows (P = .2), and PrS CK scores did not correlate with time since medical school graduation (P = .9). PoS CK scores were higher than PrS CK scores (P = .03). Most NGPs (74%) were satisfied with the module. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a need for continuing education of both new and experienced NGPs on best practices for consenting for ES. An online module with information tailored to different specialties could be an effective format for delivering this education.

Shaping minds and hearts in medical education: Embedding and implementing a personal and professional development curriculum

This paper explores personal and professional development (PPD) as a key learning domain for the future of medical education and person-centered care. Guided by existing curriculum development models and lessons learned in practice, scenarios from academic and clinical learning environments will guide a theory-driven discussion of concepts and competencies that humanize the practice of medicine, such as emotional intelligence, professional identity formation, lifelong learning and inclusive practice. Factors contributing to contemporary curriculum implementation will be informed by a case study of a PPD program delivered to post-graduate medical students in Australia and propose an action-focused series of next steps to connect past, current and future directions for medical schools and graduates. Through reflections on iterative stages of program development and the incorporation of emerging concepts in PPD, this paper advocates for the true valuing of personal growth and professional development in medical education. If future doctors are to graduate as compassionate, socially informed, and critically reflective practitioners, they need dedicated PPD learning, opportunities to practice and active encouragement to remain curious towards and beyond their own experience.

Peripheral arterial disease: a single center experience

Aims: Angiography and interventional treatment modalities in peripheral arterial disease have recently been widely used because they are easier to perform and more comfortable than surgical treatment. Revascularization is the most effective treatment method in cases such as critical leg ischemia in this disease where pharmacological agents are also widely used. In this study, we aimed to investigate interventional treatment methods in peripheral arterial disease in our center. Methods: Patients who underwent peripheral angiography or endovascular intervention in the Cardiology Clinic of Kırıkkale University Medical Faculty Hospital between March 2020 and June 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. Results: A total of 55 patients, including 10 women and 45 men, were included in the study. The mean age of the patients included in the study was 64 years. Of the angiographic procedures, 46 were performed in the lower extremity, 6 in the upper extremity and 3 in the renal arteries. Endovascular treatment were performed in 26 of them. Of the endovascular treatment, 11 were balloon angioplasty and 15 were stent implantation. In 5 patients, peripheral bypass was decided. Conclusion: Interventional treatment of peripheral arterial disease is increasingly and successfully performed in our center.

Epidemiological pattern and clinical indications for tracheostomy at Bugando Medical Centre Mwanza Tanzania

Background: Tracheostomy is among the first surgical procedures done by man and is performed from generation to generation with the major reason of saving lives. In Tanzania this procedure is commonly done and in the medical universities is taught as one of the procedures that all doctors should know. Tracheostomy is a common emergency lifesaving procedure performed between 21 to 25 patients per year among all patients receiving ENT services (13, 14). Though there is a scarcity in recent data and literature on the magnitude of tracheostomies performed in the lake zone. The most common indication for tracheostomy varies in studies from upper airway obstruction due to trauma, neoplasm, or prolonged intubation (13, 14). The pattern of tracheostomy indications may have changed with time due to advancement in medical practice. However, we lack current data in our setting highlighting indications for tracheostomies performed Methodology: This study aims at finding the epidemiological pattern and clinical indications for tracheostomy patients attending at Bugando medical centre. The engagement was done in a zonal referral hospital serving 6 regions of the country. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study which spanned from September 2023 to May 2024. Results: The total number of patients was 35 whereby males were 51.4%(18) and females 48.6% (17).Number of males was slightly higher compared to females by 1.1%.The median age for the patient was 23 years, with the mean age of 20 years. The leading age group with the largest number of patients was 50 to 59 years. Most patients came from rural areas 74 %(26). Among clinical indications for tracheostomy the leading was upper airway obstruction by 65.7%, within which malignancy predominated other conditions by 65.2%, followed by trauma 26.1%, then prolonged intubation. Females showed a significant predominant distribution of malignancies of head and Neck by 60% which were evenly distributed in varying head and neck sites with p value of 0.039 which is statistical significant; with exception of laryngeal malignancies which were observed in males alone accounting for 26.7% in the whole study period. In conclusion this study shows the prevalence of tracheostomy in our environment, which is 1.8% and the clinical indication pattern has changed from trauma in previous studies to upper airway obstruction secondary to neoplastic conditions. It also shows the significance of site of malignancy to its relation to gender and this findings are not found in other studies. Recommendation: Molecular studies are needed to analyze further the differences in subsite in terms of gender.

Drug-induced acute kidney injury: a cohort study on incidence, identification of pathophysiological mechanisms, and prognostic factors.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a common clinical syndrome characterized by an abrupt decline in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which can cause severe alterations in blood volume and acid-base balance. Drug-Induced Acute Kidney Injury (DI-AKI) is associated with exposure to nephrotoxic medications, particularly among hospitalized patients. Adverse drug reactions comprises type A and type B reactions. Type A reactions are predictable based on the pharmacology of the substance, dose-dependent, and manifest as Acute Tubular Necrosis (ATN). Type B reactions are unpredictable, idiosyncratic, not dose-dependent, and manifest as Acute Interstitial Nephritis (AIN), Crystal-Induced Nephropathy, among others. To evaluate DI-AKI incidence, identify the main associated drugs and the pathophysiological mechanism of the observed injury, analyze prognostic factors associated with unfavorable outcomes, and compare the outcomes of death and the need for Acute Kidney Support Therapy (AKST) between patients with DI-AKI vs. AKI due to other etiologies. A retrospective cohort study conducted at the Hospital das Clínicas of the Faculty of Medicine of Botucatu - UNESP (HC-FMB), using data from patients hospitalized between January 2016 and April 2022 and followed, via consultation, by the AKI-Nephrology team. Inclusion criteria: diagnosis of AKI and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) with superimposed AKI. Exclusion criteria: patients under 18 years old or on chronic Renal Replacement Therapy. AKI was diagnosed based on creatinine increase as established by KDIGO 2012. Data were presented as mean and standard deviation or median with interquartile range and frequency. Statistical significance was set at 5% (p < 0.05). Comparative analyses were performed using the Chi-Square test for categorical variables and the T-test for continuous variables. Subsequently, logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with the need for AKST and death. A total of 1,398 patients were analyzed, most of them males (61.4%), with a mean age of 64 years ±14.4 years. The most prevalent etiology of AKI was Mixed Ischemic + Septic AKI (28%). DI-AKI was a significant cause of AKI (19.3%). Of these, 25.2% were isolated DI-AKI and 74.8% were Mixed DI-AKI + Ischemia and/or Sepsis. Among patients with DI-AKI, the mean age was 61.15 ± 15.26, males were the most frequent, the majority were not subjected to AKST and survived. Most of these patients were hospitalized in the ward, did not need vasoactive drugs, nor did they use mechanical ventilation. DI-AKI showed lower severity and mortality compared to other AKI etiologies but had a similar need for AKST (26.3% vs. 35.4%, p < 0.05 and 31.8% vs. 36.8%, p > 0.05). Most nephrotoxic drugs caused type A reactions, with Vancomycin being the primary nephrotoxin. Among drugs associated with DI-AKI, Vancomycin was associated with a higher need for AKST and death, while Amphotericin B was associated with a lower risk of AKST and death. Although the mortality rate is lower among DI-AKIs compared to other AKI etiologies, the need for AKST was similar. Therefore, it is recommended that DI-AKI be recognized early to enable dose reduction or even drug suspension, depending on the type of reaction, to reduce healthcare costs and improve clinical outcomes for patients.

Correlation of IGF2 levels with sperm quality, inflammation, and DNA damage in infertile patients.

Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is a critical endocrine mediator implicated in male reproductive physiology. To investigate the correlation between IGF2 protein levels and various aspects of male infertility, specifically focusing on sperm quality, inflammation, and DNA damage, a cohort of 320 male participants was recruited from the Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Hangzhou, China) between 1st January 2024 and 1st March 2024. The relationship between IGF2 protein concentrations and sperm parameters was assessed, and Spearman correlation and linear regression analysis were employed to evaluate the independent associations between IGF2 protein levels and risk factors for infertility. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure IGF2 protein levels in seminal plasma, alongside markers of inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α] and interleukin-1β [IL-1β]). The relationship between seminal plasma IGF2 protein levels and DNA damage marker phosphorylated histone H2AX (γ-H2AX) was also explored. Our findings reveal that IGF2 protein expression decreased notably in patients with asthenospermia and teratospermia. Correlation analysis revealed nuanced associations between IGF2 protein levels and specific sperm parameters, and low IGF2 protein concentrations correlated with increased inflammation and DNA damage in sperm. The observed correlations between IGF2 protein levels and specific sperm parameters, along with its connection to inflammation and DNA damage, underscore the importance of IGF2 in the broader context of male reproductive health. These findings lay the groundwork for future research and potential therapeutic interventions targeting IGF2-related pathways to enhance male fertility.

Assessment of health-related quality of life of children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome and their caregivers in China

AimsThe primary aim of this study was to characterize the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and identify the associated factors among children aged 2 to 18 in China diagnosed with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). Additionally, the study aimed to evaluate the HRQoL and caregiving burden of their caregivers and investigate the correlation between the HRQoL of the children and that of their caregivers.MethodsThis study recruited 181 children diagnosed with INS from Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine in China. The proxy-reported PedsQL Generic Core Module (PedsQL™ 4.0 GCM) was used to measure the HRQoL of children, and the EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire, five-level version (EQ-5D-5L) was applied to measure caregivers’ HRQoL. Differences in scale scores and total scores of PedsQL™ 4.0 GCM were assessed using t-tests and one-way ANOVA. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with children’s HRQoL. Pearson correlation analysis evaluated the correlation between children’s HRQoL and caregiver’s HRQoL.ResultsHRQoL of Children with INS declines with increasing age, and children aged 5-18 had lower scores in physical functioning, emotional functioning, school functioning, psychosocial health summary score, and total PedsQL™ 4.0 GCM score compared to healthy children. Various factors, including the mother filling out the questionnaire, the father being unemployed, and the use of other medications except for steroids, were associated with worse HRQoL of children (p values < 0.05). Additionally, a correlation exists between children’s HRQoL and their caregivers’ HRQoL.ConclusionThis study evaluated the HRQoL of children aged 2-18 years diagnosed with INS in China, along with the HRQoL of their caregivers. Multiple factors potentially influence the HRQoL of children. A significant correlation was observed between the HRQoL of children and their caregivers, who frequently experienced varying levels of caregiving burden. Therefore, it is recommended that healthcare professionals prioritize optimizing HRQoL for children with INS and their caregivers.

Unravelling the sleep crisis: insomnia among medical students in government and private medical college students in Mysuru district

Background: Insomnia, a prevalent sleep disorder, significantly impacts medical students due to the high levels of stress and demanding academic schedules. The educational environment of medical students, marked by intense competition and high expectations, often contributes to chronic stress, a known precursor to sleep disturbances. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of insomnia among medical students in government and private medical colleges and assess the factors contributing to insomnia in these groups. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted among 490 medical students from government and private medical colleges over three months (April to June 2024). Systematic sampling was used to select participants, and data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire, including sociodemographic information and the Athens insomnia scale. Data were analysed using SPSS Version 26.0, with chi-square tests for qualitative data and Mann-Whitney U tests for insomnia comparisons. Results: The study revealed a significantly higher prevalence of insomnia in private medical college students (40.8%) compared to government college students (11.8%). Significant associations were found between insomnia and insufficient sleep, stress, and depression in both groups. Additionally, the use of mobile devices at night and irregular sleep patterns during exams were linked to higher insomnia rates. The median insomnia score was higher in private medical college students compared to government college students, indicating a statistically significant difference (p value &lt;0.05). Conclusions: Targeted interventions to improve sleep quality and mental health support are crucial for this population. Regular assessments and feedback mechanisms should be implemented to enhance the effectiveness of these interventions.

Perception of Undergraduate Students and Faculties Regarding Elective

Background: National medical commission of India introduced electives in the medical curriculum for M.B.B.S. batch 2019 while they completed 3rd phase part-I (before commencement of 3rd phase part-II). An elective module was introduced by NMC for universal implementation of this new concept in the Medical Colleges of India. Our college under the guidance of our Dean/Principal and MEU Co-ordinator implemented the ELECTIVES for students. This study has been done to observe the perception of medical undergraduates regarding electives and faculties who have been assigned to be the Internal preceptors. A cross-sectional survey was done to observe the effectiveness and importance of electives according to students and faculties. Aim and Objectives: To evaluate the perceptions of undergraduate students and faculties regarding ELECTIVE programme and its effectiveness. Methodology: The study was conducted on 24 students of phase 3 part II (BATCH 2020) and 19 faculties of various departments involved as internal preceptors in elective programme of K.D. MEDICAL COLLEGE MATHURA. Questionnaire having both closed ended objective questions and open ended questions was used to assess the perspective of students and faculties with questions inter-related with respect to elective programme. Findings: 95.8% students and 100% internal preceptors (faculties) have suggested that an orientation/sensitization is the necessary prior to initiate the Electives, to achieve more learning from the concept. 87.5% students and 73.7% faculties have accepted that the goal of elective programme is being realized Conclusions: A positive perception was observed amongst students as well as amongst faculties as internal preceptors regarding elective programme. This observation thus suggests that elective has provided a good tool to learn of choice topics, but most of the study participants also agreed to the fact that an orientation/sensitisation programme is necessary for both students as well as faculties prior to the beginning of the elective. Also, elective is a good initiative to gain in depth knowledge of respective subjects and develop an interest in the respective field for higher studies.

John Day: diabetes specialist who seized on concept of patient education and helped establish a medical school in Mozambique

John Day: diabetes specialist who seized on concept of patient education and helped establish a medical school in Mozambique

Differences in Religious Commitment and Harm Reduction Attitudes Among US Medical Students by Sex Assigned at Birth: A Pilot Study.

Harm reduction emphasizes positive change by working with individuals without judgment, coercion, discrimination, or requiring abstinence from drugs to receive support. This study examines how religious commitment and medical student attitudes toward harm reduction approaches for substance use differ based on sex assigned at birth. Participants from a US osteopathic medical school completed the revised Harm Reduction Acceptability Scale and the Belief into Action Scale.Statistical analyses revealed that males had significantly higher harm reduction acceptability scores than females. Moreover, a significant negative correlation between religious commitment and harm reduction acceptance was found, indicating that stronger religious commitment was linked to lower acceptance of harm reduction. To build on this cross-sectional exploratory study, further research is needed to delve deeper into sex differences in medical students' attitudes and the role of religious commitment in harm reduction. Future studies should explore the direction and causality of these relationships.

Who's at the Table? A Scoping Review of Stakeholder Engagement in Medical Education Program Evaluation.

Program evaluation is essential for medical schools to demonstrate social accountability and identify areas for improvement in medical education (MEd). Although stakeholder engagement is crucial in program evaluation, no previous review has specifically examined the stakeholders involved in MEd program evaluation. This scoping review addresses this gap by identifying the stakeholders, their roles, and their levels of engagement in evaluating MEd programs, along with the facilitators and barriers to their participation. Through a systematic search across four databases, we identified 53 relevant studies out of 7206 screened. Our findings reveal seven primary stakeholder groups, with students and program directors being the most frequent participants. However, a significant gap exists in the representation of community members and patients, indicating a need for greater inclusion of these key stakeholders. Additionally, we found that stakeholders are primarily engaged as passive participants providing feedback rather than actively shaping the evaluation process. Facilitators and barriers to participation were identified from the participants' perspective, highlighting the need for further research to understand the viewpoints of active stakeholders, such as faculty and administrators. Future studies should also explore the impact of different evaluation approaches on stakeholder engagement to develop more inclusive and effective MEd program evaluations.

Transbronchial lung cryobiopsy for interstitial lung disease: early experience, learning curve, and the impact of sedation on complication rates at a single centre in Japan

BackgroundTransbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) has emerged as a promising diagnostic tool for interstitial lung disease (ILD). This study aimed to assess the initial experience, procedural learning curve, and influence of sedative medications on complication rates, particularly bleeding and pneumothorax, in the implementation of a TBLC program for ILD diagnosis.MethodsIn this retrospective cohort study, we analysed 119 patients who underwent TBLC at Nippon Medical School Hospital from April 2021 to March 2024. Procedural times, complication rates, and histopathological outcomes were evaluated. The learning curve was assessed using cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis, focusing on procedure time and biopsy yield. The association between sedative medication dosages and bleeding risk was also examined.ResultsThe overall diagnostic yield was high, with alveolar tissue obtained in 97.5% of cases and a definitive pathological diagnosis achieved in 81.5% of patients. CUSUM analysis revealed a proficiency threshold at approximately 56 cases, with improved efficiency and biopsy yield in the consolidation phase. Fentanyl dosage was significantly associated with reduced bleeding complications (odds ratio 0.51, 95% confidence interval 0.27–0.97, p = 0.041).ConclusionsTBLC is a safe and effective diagnostic tool for ILDs, with a manageable learning curve for procedural efficiency. Sedation, particularly fentanyl dosage, may plays a crucial role in minimizing complications, but further research is needed to clarify this relationship. These findings support the adoption of TBLC as a standard diagnostic approach for ILD and highlight the importance of adequate training and optimized sedation protocols to ensure safety and efficacy in clinical practice.

First things first: measuring French Medical schools’ deans motivation to engage in smoke-free campus

Abstract Smoke-free campuses (SFC) prohibit smoking and vaping on all university grounds and for all users. Around a hundred of papers was published on that topic revealing how they reduce initiation and increase smoking cessation among students. Whereas it is key for the success of all project, including SFC, very rare research has investigated attitude of high-level leaders of universities toward SFC, their perceived barriers and motivation to adopt it. To fill this gap, we interviewed deans of medical schools in France, where SFC are limited. In-depth individual interviews were conducted on 31 deans and two associate-deans (representing 31 out of 35 French medical schools). Questions rose knowledge of SFC, perception of this measure, self-role to play and other factors influencing implementation. We targeted medical schools because they train future prescribers of smoking cessation, and can act as a model for policy dissemination to other schools. The 23 hours of interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis with Nvivo14. Regarding diffusion in 2023, only one medical school had a SFC, six were implementing it, 23 had no SFC and one abandoned it. 28 held positive attitudes towards SFC, explained by its impact on health and the mission of medical schools. Most of them considered SFC feasible with resources and engagement of students. Identified barriers were competing priority, lack of funding and of support from users and risk of stigmatization of smokers. A majority of deans thought they had a role to play in initiating, promoting and moderating the policy. SFC are recommended by the WHO but there is important room for improvement for their diffusion in France. Yet, a majority of deans we interviewed appeared motivated to adopt it. Solutions to encourage them and overcome barriers must be found. Key messages • Diffusion of SFC among medical schools remains limited in France. • Deans’s positive attitude towards SFC bring hope for a better diffusion of SFC among French universities.

Modification in Quality of Life and Health in Medical Students across Graduation

Abstract Background Medical students experience numerous demands during the education process, determining their quality of life (QoL) and health status. POLLEK study aims to identify and evaluate the quality of life by simultaneously assessing their determinants in Polish medical students during long-term observation. We have also examined the prevalence of chronic diseases, specifically focusing on overweight and obesity, and identified their risk factors. Methods The POLLEK is the follow-up cohort study conducted among medical students at the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice. Students were followed during two observation periods: in their first year of studies, the academic year 2021/2022 (T1), and in their second year, the academic year 2022/2023 (T2). Results The total number of participants in the first year of observation (T1) was 427 while in the second year (T2) was 335. We identified that the QoL score significantly decreased in their second year of studies mainly in the somatic and psychological domain. The determinants of QoL domains common to T1 and T2 remained self-declared health status, frequency of physical activity, and current financial situation. In the initial year of evaluation, 56 students (13.10%) were overweight or obese, and 52 (15.8%) in the second. Regardless of the academic year, the increased risk of being overweight or obese was significantly associated with dissatisfaction with personal health, financial deficiencies, and a diet abundant in animal products. Conclusions The QoL of medical students and selected indicators of their health status deteriorated during the observation period. Our findings suggest that medical schools should actively promote the activity needed to achieve a balance between schoolwork and the personal life of medical students from the beginning of university study. Key messages • Medical students experience numerous demands during the education process, determining their quality of life (QoL) and health status. • Medical schools should actively promote the activity needed to achieve a balance between schoolwork and the personal life of medical students from the beginning of university study.

Culture on organ and tissue donation in the community of Medical School, Veracruz Region

Abstract Introduction Organ donation is a life-saving activity, yet there is a disparity between the high number of recipients and the minimal number of donors. Objetives To determine the level of organ and tissue donation culture for transplant purposes among faculty members and undergraduate medical interns at a Medical School Methods A cross-sectional and prospective study was conducted from January 2023 to 2024, including faculty members and undergraduate medical interns from the Medical School at the University of Veracruz - Veracruz Region. The main study variable was the culture of organ and tissue donation for transplant purposes, quantified through three dimensions: knowledge, attitude, and training, assessed using a validated instrument (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.6). The entire described population was included, and they were approached in different areas to invite them to participate in this research. Results 225 subjects (55 faculty members) agreed to participate. 97% of participants expressed support for organ donation. Among those not in favor of donation, 33% feared receiving poor medical care as donors, and 17% viewed donation as a business. Organ donation culture was deemed sufficient in 10.98% and outstanding in 71.76% of participants. The most common level of knowledge was outstanding (52%), 70% of the studied population showed a ‘very positive’ attitude towards organ and tissue donation. Training history was evaluated as an associated factor with knowledge about organ donation (OR/CI95%), identifying an association between lack of training and levels of sufficient knowledge (2.5/1.2-4.9) and outstanding knowledge (0.3/0.1-0.7), as well as with sufficient culture (9.6/1.2-73.0) and outstanding culture (0.1/0.04-0.4) (p &amp;lt; 0.05) Conclusions It is imperative to strengthen training programs for faculty and undergraduate personnel, as quality training enhances knowledge and culture within this essential area of healthcare personnel formation. Key messages • University professors should have accurate information on organ donation and sensitize future physicians on the subject, as this could be a crucial step for future interactions in favor of donation. • It is necessary to eradicate misinformation about organ donation in teachers and students of medical schools, since they are the basis for education and awareness on this issue in the population.

Prevalence and severity of insomnia in adult outpatients attending Kasralainy Psychiatry and Addiction Treatment Hospital

BackgroundInsomnia is common among patients with psychiatric disorders and affects the clinical presentation and outcomes of the psychiatric disorder. The presentation of insomnia varies according to the type and severity of the psychiatric disorder.ObjectivesThis cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of insomnia in adult psychiatric outpatients attending Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University. The study included 390 patients diagnosed with the following disorders: depressive disorders (n = 126 (32.2%)), anxiety disorders (n = 69 (17.6%)), psychotic spectrum disorders (n = 67 (17.1%)), bipolar and related disorders (n = 50 (12.8%)), trauma and stress-related disorders (n = 46 (11.8%)), obsessive–compulsive disorder (n = 30 (7.7%)), and somatic symptoms disorders (n = 2 (0.5%)). Patients were assessed using the Sleep Disorder Interview, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF).ResultsAmong the assessed patients, 314 (80.5%) had insomnia, with a higher prevalence in females (91.5%) compared to males (67.2%). The prevalence of insomnia was 96% in depressive disorders, 97.1% in anxiety disorders, 49.3% in psychotic disorders, and 32% in bipolar and related disorders; while all patients with trauma and stress-related disorders, obsessive–compulsive disorders, and somatic symptoms disorders had insomnia.The severity of insomnia as measured by ISI was positively correlated with the global functioning score (r = 0.341, p = < 0.001) and negatively correlated with the duration of the psychiatric illness (r = − 0.285, p = < 0.001).ConclusionsInsomnia is highly prevalent in outpatients with psychiatric disorders.

The effect of health literacy course on the level of health literacy in medical students

Abstract Health literacy (HL) concerns not only individuals but also health systems and health professionals. Most of the literature on HL has focused on patient factors, with little emphasis on the communication skills and practices of health professionals. Training is needed at all levels to understand the concept of HL and its impact on health inequalities. This study is an intervention study. Data were collected from 29 students taking the third year elective course at the Faculty of Medicine through an online survey. The survey consists of 40 questions aimed at assessing the demographic characteristics of the participants, the TSOY-32 Scale and some factors affecting HL. During the training period, role-play scenarios were played to teach the importance of HL, sample videos were watched to evaluate physician-patient communication, and case studies were conducted. The mean pre-test TSOY-32 scale score of the participants was 32.8±5.8. The mean post-test TSOY-32 scale score was 36.4±7.1. There was a significant difference between pretest and posttest groups in terms of TSOY-32 scale score (p = 0.033). Health professionals often overestimate patients’ HL levels and do not have sufficient competence to effectively manage limited HL. These gaps need to be addressed through the curricula of medical schools and specialties. Key messages • Training on health literacy improves medical students’ communication skills, bridging gaps in patient care. • Addressing health literacy in medical training enhances patient-doctor communication, vital for quality care.