bims-librar 2026-01-04 papers

bims-librar

Biomed News

on Biomedical librarianship

Issue of 2026–01–04
eighteen papers selected by
Thomas Krichel, Open Library Society

AI-assisted search strategy construction with step-by-step instructions to execute and manage searches across major databases.
An Interactive Brain Atlas of Knowledge.
Comparing large language models and search engine responses to common orthodontic questions.
Efficacy of Large Language Models in Providing Evidence-Based Patient Education for Celiac Disease: A Comparative Analysis.
How Reliable Is the Information Provided by Artificial Intelligence Chatbots in Periodontics?
Reliability of ChatGPT answers to common questions on developmental dysplasia of the hip as an information source for parents.
Assessment of the Readability of Google Gemini-Generated Versus UpToDate Clinical Contents for Ventricular Tachycardia Management.
The hidden health equity crisis: readability assessment of online information regarding periodontitis-diabetes relationship.
Evaluation of the Online Information Landscape and Oxalate Content of Purportedly Antilithogenic Ingredients.
Online health educational resources for hypospadias diagnosis and treatment: An evaluation of contemporary websites and qualitative review of patient and family information needs.
Quality and Readability of Arabic Online Resources on Early Orthodontic Intervention in Children: An Infodemiologic Study.
Pro- and Antifluoride Use Messages on YouTube in Japan: Content Analysis.
Analysis of YouTube Videos Focusing on Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy Care, and Pouching System Changes.
Evaluation of the quality, accuracy, and reliability of YouTube™ videos on laminate veneer treatment in Turkish.
Quality and Reliability of YouTube Videos on Poisonings, Insect Bites, and Envenomations.
Quality Assessment of Shock Videos on Video Sharing Platforms: Cross-Sectional Study.
Evaluating the Content, Quality, and Reliability of Migraine-related Videos on TikTok in China: Opportunities and Challenges for Health Information Dissemination.
TikTok as a Source of Information on Temporomandibular Disorders: Reliable Health Education or Misinformation?

Med Ref Serv Q. 2025 Dec 29. 1-26

AI-assisted search strategy construction with step-by-step instructions to execute and manage searches across major databases.

Vikas Yadav, Tanwi Trushna, Uday Kumar Mandal, Mahendra Singh, Akhil Dhanesh Goel, Mohan Bairwa, Deepti Dabar, Yogesh Damodar Sabde.

  This manuscript introduces a generative artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted prompt template designed to help users translate their self-compiled keyword lists into database-ready, syntactically correct search strategies. The template is supported by detailed, step-by-step guidance for executing and managing searches across major databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. A small pilot test with three independent reviewers demonstrated that the workflow was usable and generated search strategies that ran without syntax errors. The complete two-part prompt and accompanying resources are openly available at https://github.com/ResearchCore/prompt2query.

Keywords:  ChatGPT; database search strategies; generative artificial intelligence; information retrieval; meta-analysis; prompt engineering; systematic reviews

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1080/02763869.2025.2595567
bioRxiv. 2025 Dec 16. pii: 2025.12.12.694043. [Epub ahead of print]

An Interactive Brain Atlas of Knowledge.

Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative

Biomedical knowledge about the brain increases every day, with a rapidly growing number of scientific publications, datasets, and software tools. While this informational plethora is not merely comprehensible by human beings, recent developments in information science and computational linguistics aim to make this knowledge programmatically accessible by literature mining. However, integrating these semantic methods into neuroimaging standards remains insufficient, hindering researchers from unraveling their full potential. Therefore, we developed the semantic meta-analysis platform The Virtual Brain adapter of semantics (TVBase) that projects biomedical knowledge preserved in over 36 million scientific articles onto a 3D standardized brain. The literature-mining platform SCAIView was used to extract ontologically defined biomedical entities and their associations with brain anatomy from the PubMed database. By querying a specific concept, the association strength with each anatomical term was calculated using entropy. To project the data onto a standardized brain, we created a unique transformation matrix that links over 800 anatomical terms to voxel coordinates of a parcellated standard brain. This novel method of knowledge projection extracts region-specific information about biomedical concepts from the literature to support translational multi-scale approaches to computational neuroscience. The multi-purpose software framework TVBase is openly available as a Python library. It aims for hypothesis-free neuroimaging pattern interpretation, hypothesis generation, and applications in personalized medicine.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64898/2025.12.12.694043
PLoS One. 2026 ;21(1): e0339908

Comparing large language models and search engine responses to common orthodontic questions.

Yuanyuan Ren, Jing Sun.

BACKGROUND: Large Language Models (LLMs) highlight their potential in supporting patient education and self-management. Their performance in responses to orthodontic questions has yet to be explored.
OBJECTIVES: This study aims to compare the quality, empathy, readability, and satisfaction of responses from LLMs and search engines on common orthodontic questions.
METHODS: Forty-five common orthodontic questions (six categories) and a prompt were developed, and a self-designed multidimensional evaluation questionnaire was constructed. Questions were presented to 5 LLMs and 3 search engines on December,22,2024. The primary outcomes were the median expert-rated scores of LLMs versus search engine responses on quality, empathy, readability, and satisfaction, using 5- or 10-point Likert scales.
RESULTS: LLMs scored significantly higher than search engines in quality (4.00 vs. 3.50, p < 0.001), empathy (3.75 vs. 3.50, p < 0.001), readability (4.00 vs. 3.75, p < 0.001), and satisfaction (8.00 vs. 7.25, p < 0.001). LLM-generated responses were rated significantly higher than those from search engines in therapeutic outcomes category, appliance selection category and cost category.
CONCLUSIONS: In this cross-sectional study, the LLMs, particularly GPT-4o, outperformed search engines. These results indicate the potential of LLMs as supplementary tools for orthodontic patient education and self-management.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0339908
Nutrients. 2025 Dec 06. pii: 3828. [Epub ahead of print]17(24):

Efficacy of Large Language Models in Providing Evidence-Based Patient Education for Celiac Disease: A Comparative Analysis.

Luisa Bertin, Federica Branchi, Carolina Ciacci, Anne R Lee, David S Sanders, Nick Trott, Fabiana Zingone.

  Background/Objectives: Large language models (LLMs) show promise for patient education, yet their safety and efficacy for chronic diseases requiring lifelong management remain unclear. This study presents the first comprehensive comparative evaluation of three leading LLMs for celiac disease patient education. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional evaluation comparing ChatGPT-4, Claude 3.7, and Gemini 2.0 using six blinded clinical specialists (four gastroenterologists and two dietitians). Twenty questions spanning four domains (general understanding, symptoms/diagnosis, diet/nutrition, lifestyle management) were evaluated for scientific accuracy, clarity (5-point Likert scales), misinformation presence, and readability using validated computational metrics (Flesch Reading Ease, Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, SMOG index). Results: Gemini 2.0 demonstrated superior performance across multiple dimensions. Gemini 2.0 achieved the highest scientific accuracy ratings (median 4.5 [IQR: 4.5-5.0] vs. 4.0 [IQR: 4.0-4.5] for both competitors, p = 0.015) and clarity scores (median 5.0 [IQR: 4.5-5.0] vs. 4.0 [IQR: 4.0-4.5], p = 0.011). While Gemini 2.0 showed numerically lower misinformation rates (13.3% vs. 23.3% for ChatGPT-4 and 24.2% for Claude 3.7), differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.778). Gemini 2.0 achieved significantly superior readability, requiring approximately 2-3 fewer years of education for comprehension (median Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level 9.8 [IQR: 8.8-10.3] vs. 12.5 for both competitors, p < 0.001). However, all models exceeded recommended 6th-8th grade health literacy targets. Conclusions: While Gemini 2.0 demonstrated statistically significant advantages in accuracy, clarity, and readability, misinformation rates of 13.3-24.2% across all models represent concerning risk levels for direct patient applications. AI offers valuable educational support but requires healthcare provider supervision until misinformation rates improve.

Keywords:  artificial intelligence; gluten; health literacy; patient education

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17243828
J Craniofac Surg. 2025 Dec 29.

How Reliable Is the Information Provided by Artificial Intelligence Chatbots in Periodontics?

Akif Nalbant, Gamze Ebrar Nalbant, Hatice Ebru Olgun.

  Artificial intelligence chatbots, widely used in various fields including health care, are increasingly being adopted by patients seeking answers to their dental questions. This study compares the accuracy of chatbot responses to frequently asked questions in periodontology with those provided by expert periodontists. The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the accuracy of answers given by ChatGPT-4, Google Gemini 1.5 Flash, ChatCPT-4.0o, Google Gemini 1.5 Pro to frequently asked questions in the field of periodontics. Frequently asked questions (n=10) were formulated by periodontologists and collected via ChatGPT-4 queries (n=10); each question was asked to the chatbot once. The responses (n=80) were independently assessed by 2 dentists and one experienced periodontologist using a modified Global Quality Score (GQS) on a 5-point Likert scale. Disagreements on scoring were resolved through evidence-based discussions. Kruskal-Wallis test was performed for the accuracy of responses between chatbots. The average GQS scores for Gemini 1.5 Flash, Gemini 1.5 Pro, ChatGPT-4, and ChatGPT-4.0o were 4.5, 4.8, 3.2, and 4.6, respectively. A significant difference was observed among the chatbots in terms of GQS scores (P<0.001). This significance was attributed to the differences between the following pairs: ChatGPT-4 and ChatGPT-4.0o (P<0.001), Gemini 1.5 Pro and ChatGPT-4 (P<0.001), and Gemini 1.5 and ChatGPT-4 (P<0.001). ChatGPT-4.0o, Google Gemini 1.5 Flash, and Google Gemini 1.5 Pro provided more accuracy information on topics related to periodontology compared with ChatGPT-4.

Keywords:  Artificial intelligence; ChatGPT; Gemini; chatbots; periodontology

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1097/SCS.0000000000012350
Front Pediatr. 2025 ;13 1659812

Reliability of ChatGPT answers to common questions on developmental dysplasia of the hip as an information source for parents.

Klemens Vertesich, Joachim Ortmayr, Reinhard Windhager, Madeleine Willegger.

   Background: Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly AI-based large language models (LLM) like ChatGPT, is increasingly shaping how information is accessed, offering patients a new source for understanding complex medical conditions. Given the physical, emotional, and logistical challenges that parents are faced when their baby is diagnosed with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), the demand for clear and accessible educational resources is high. This study aimed to evaluate the quality and reliability of ChatGPT's responses to frequently asked questions about DDH.
Methods: This study assessed the quality of responses generated by the AI chatbot ChatGPT 4o to eight frequently asked questions about DDH, derived from real consultations in a pediatric orthopedic clinic Responses were generated during one interaction per question using a ChatGPT account not previously exposed to medical information. Responses were evaluated by two individual readers using a standardized rating system, comparing them to current literature, patient education resources, and consensus guidelines. Each response was categorized by its level of informational accuracy and completeness, and descriptive statistics were calculated to quantify performance.
Results: ChatGPT 4o was able to generate structured responses to all eight parental questions. The responses were rated in 12.5% excellent, 25.0% satisfactory with minimal clarification, 50.0% satisfactory with moderate clarification, and 12.5% unsatisfactory due to missing or inaccurate information.
Conclusion: ChatGPT provided satisfactory answers to questions about DDH and may serve as a useful supplementary information resource for parents. However, due to limitations in presenting detailed diagnostic and treatment pathways, it should be viewed as an adjunct to, not a replacement for, specialist medical consultation.

Keywords:  artificial intelligence; developmental dysplasia of the hip; hip screening; infant hip; large language model

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fped.2025.1659812
Cureus. 2025 Nov;17(11): e97997

Assessment of the Readability of Google Gemini-Generated Versus UpToDate Clinical Contents for Ventricular Tachycardia Management.

Akash Ranganatha, Veena Ramanathan, Nikhil Vamsi Chitte, Mansi Chaudhari, Parv Panchal, Mohammad Danish.

  Introduction Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a life-threatening arrhythmia requiring complex management. Google Gemini is increasingly used to generate medical content, while UpToDate remains a leading expert-authored clinical reference. This study compared the "readability," not the "clinical accuracy," of VT-related content generated by Google Gemini and UpToDate. Aims This study aims to objectively compare the readability of Google Gemini-generated medical content and UpToDate expert-authored material on VT using standardized readability indices. Methods A cross-sectional study analyzed 12 textual responses on VT management: six from Google Gemini and six from UpToDate. Readability was assessed using the WebFX Readability Test Tool, which calculates Flesch Reading Ease (FRE), Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) Index, and Difficult Word Percentage. As the data were non-normally distributed, the Mann-Whitney U test was applied. The analysis was limited to quantitative readability metrics and did not assess clinical accuracy or human comprehension. Results The median FKGL score was 16.5 for UpToDate and 13.5 for Google Gemini (p = 0.017), indicating that UpToDate text required a more advanced reading level. The median Difficult Word Percentage was 32.0% for Google Gemini and 28.6% for UpToDate (p = 0.026), suggesting that Google Gemini content contained a higher proportion of multisyllabic or specialized words. No significant differences were observed in FRE or SMOG Index values (p > 0.05). Conclusion Google Gemini-generated content demonstrated a simpler sentence structure but greater lexical density compared to UpToDate. This highlights a distinct linguistic pattern: syntactic simplicity combined with concentrated technical vocabulary. These findings emphasize the importance of expert review when using Google Gemini-generated material in medical education and communication.

Keywords:  artificial intelligence; cross-sectional study; evidence-based medicine; google gemini; readability; uptodate; ventricular tachycardia

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.97997
Front Public Health. 2025 ;13 1710193

The hidden health equity crisis: readability assessment of online information regarding periodontitis-diabetes relationship.

Eugene Gamble, Peter Chami, Heather Harewood, Tamara Nancoo.

   Background: Despite strong evidence linking periodontitis as a risk factor for diabetes, this association remains significantly underrepresented in online health information. Given that online resources serve as a primary source of health education, this study examines the content coverage and readability of diabetes-related websites from government and health organizations.
Methods: A total of 154 health and diabetes-related websites were screened, with only 28 containing any reference to periodontitis-diabetes interrelationship. Readability analysis was specifically conducted on this subset of 28 sites using Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), Gunning Fog Index (GFI), Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG), Coleman-Liau Index (CLI), and Flesch Reading Ease (FRE) Score. Readability scores were then compared to the American Medical Association's recommended fifth-to-sixth-grade reading level (~10-12 years old).
Results: Only 15 websites (9.7%) explicitly identified periodontitis as a risk factor for diabetes, highlighting a major gap in online health education. Readability analysis of sites that cover any part of the periodontitis-diabetes interrelationship (n = 28) showed that most content was written at a level too complex for general audiences. FKGL (mean = 12.0, p < 0.001), GFI (mean = 12.0, p < 0.001), SMOG scores (mean = 13.6, p < 0.001), CLI (mean = 13.6, p < 0.001), and FRE scores (mean = 43.9, p < 0.001) indicate that much of the material requires college-level reading proficiency (typically 18+ years old).
Conclusions: The overwhelming majority of online diabetes resources fail to acknowledge periodontitis as a risk factor for diabetes, despite well-established evidence supporting this link. Additionally, the readability of available materials is significantly above recommended levels for public comprehension. This accessibility gap may lead to a lack of awareness among patients and healthcare professionals, further contributing to health inequality. To enhance health literacy and encourage integrated care approaches, websites should prioritize both simplifying their content and ensuring the periodontitis-diabetes relationship is clearly communicated.

Keywords:  bidirectional relationship; diabetes; digital health; health equity; health literacy; online health information; patient education; periodontitis

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1710193
J Endourol. 2025 Dec 24.

Evaluation of the Online Information Landscape and Oxalate Content of Purportedly Antilithogenic Ingredients.

Karan N Thaker, Ava Mousavi, Tamara Keenum, Sapna Thaker, Parris Diaz, Jacob Komberg, Kien Tran, John Knight, Kristina L Penniston, Kymora B Scotland.

  Purpose: The popularity of over-the-counter (OTC) supplements has led to their increased utilization among patients for kidney stone management.9,11 However, a more thorough understanding of the ingredients in OTC supplements marketed to treat nephrolithiasis is needed. These supplements are often bought online, given the substantial increase in online information and shopping in the past decade. Therefore, it is also important to evaluate public interest and the reliability of online information for these purportedly antilithogenic ingredients. Materials and Methods: The best-selling supplements marketed to treat kidney stones on Amazon.com were compiled to identify the most common ingredients. A literature review was completed to assess clinical support for common ingredients. BuzzSumo software was used to quantify online engagement with articles on each ingredient, as well as the overall topic of alternative treatments for kidney stones. Articles were evaluated for reliability using the DISCERN tool. Ion chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was used to assess oxalate content in the most commonly found ingredients in OTC kidney stone supplements. Results and Conclusions: Evidence for stone prevention for the most common supplement ingredients was limited or lacking altogether, based on literature review. Public interest in supplement ingredients was between 2-fold and 10-fold greater than potassium citrate, a commonly prescribed stone prevention medication. Online articles for all ingredients showed poor reliability. Oxalate analysis showed chanca piedra, turmeric, and cinnamon contained 8.2, 8.6, and 14.0 mg oxalate per dose. These findings suggest that patients and providers should exercise caution while using OTC supplements for stone management, and that additional investigations of the composition and clinical efficacy of these ingredients are needed.

Keywords:  dietary supplements; hyperoxaluria; misinformation; nephrolithiasis; nonprescription drugs; patient education

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1177/08927790251409797
J Pediatr Urol. 2025 Dec 05. pii: S1477-5131(25)00672-2. [Epub ahead of print] 105684

Online health educational resources for hypospadias diagnosis and treatment: An evaluation of contemporary websites and qualitative review of patient and family information needs.

Mélise A Keays, Elena Tsangaris, Yash B Shah, Nathan Hyacinthe, Sonia Gulati, Amanda Gordon, Nicolas Fernandez, Paige Bosse, Anne Klassen, Christopher J Long.

   INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE: Patients and families of children with hypospadias often seek online information to understand the nature of their child's condition and the implications for the child's health and well-being. There is increasing awareness that the relevance and comprehensibility of online health information may not meet parental needs. This study aimed to understand the informational needs of patients and their families and to evaluate the readability and relevance of the content of North American accredited pediatric urology fellowship programs.
METHODS: Qualitative interviews with patients (children, teen and adults) and their caregivers were conducted, and reported informational needs for hypospadias were extracted. Subsequently, online hypospadias materials from all fellowship program-accredited pediatric hospitals were compiled. Full-text online information was extracted. The content was reviewed and categorized into categories by two independent reviewers and summarized. Reviewers then independently edited text to remove extraneous information and calculated readability scores using the Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES), Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), Gunning-Fog Index (GFI), Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG), Coleman-Liau Index (CLI), and Automated Readability Index (ARI).
RESULTS: Results from the qualitative analysis demonstrated five information domains: education and knowledge translation, seeking information, quality of information, understandability and consistency, and modality. Participants described the information received by their care providers that was clear and concise; albeit seeking additional details about hypospadias and its treatment, anesthesia, circumcision, complications, counseling, family history, and fertility. 82 % of SPU-accredited pediatric hospitals provided online hypospadias material on their website. The FRES score was classified as difficult and the FKGL, GFI and SMOG scores estimated 10-12 reading grade.
CONCLUSIONS: Online hypospadias resources published by leading hospitals with pediatric urology fellowship programs and national urologic associations exceed the recommended reading level for patient and caregiver education. Content analysis reveals that topics of primary importance to patients and families are covered, including etiology, treatment options and long-term outcomes. A standard for online educational resources should be established to improve readability and patient experiences and to address primary parent and patient concerns.

Keywords:  Hypospadias; Hypospadias treatment; Online health information; Patient education; Readability

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpurol.2025.12.001
Cureus. 2025 Dec;17(12): e100518

Quality and Readability of Arabic Online Resources on Early Orthodontic Intervention in Children: An Infodemiologic Study.

Aliyah Aloraini, Deem Aljulaydan, Ghada Alaglan.

  Background Early orthodontic intervention during the primary or mixed dentition phase can effectively address malocclusion, mitigate detrimental oral habits, and enhance long-term oral and psychosocial outcomes. Although the American Association of Orthodontists recommends initiating orthodontic assessments for children at age seven, most caregivers consult the internet for information. The quality, reliability, and readability of Arabic-language internet sources regarding early orthodontic treatment remain deficient. This study aimed to assess Arabic websites on early orthodontic treatment in children using validated quality and readability instruments. Methods In October 2024, a Google search (Google Inc., Mountain View, CA, USA) was conducted using four Arabic search terms equivalent to "early orthodontic treatment in children." The eligible websites were classified into different categories based on specialization, organizational affiliation, material type, and presentation style. Website quality was assessed using the DISCERN instrument, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks, and the Health on the Net (HON) Code. Readability was assessed using the Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES), Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), and Simplified Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) indices. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis, with p ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results The initial 200 search results were screened, resulting in 63 eligible sites. The DISCERN assessment indicated that Arabic-language websites concerning early orthodontic treatment exhibited moderate overall quality. The findings from the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark analysis reinforce these conclusions, with only six (9.5%) websites meeting all four items. None of the included websites was HONcode-certified. University-affiliated websites achieved significantly higher DISCERN and JAMA benchmark scores than commercial or nonprofit websites (p ≤ 0.05). All websites demonstrated high readability (mean FRES > 80), with university-affiliated content written at the most accessible level (p = 0.001). Conclusions Arabic websites on early orthodontic treatment generally display high readability and moderate informational quality. Nonetheless, major gaps remain in authorship transparency, source citations, and the disclosure of conflicts of interest. Increasing government participation and standardizing transparency practices are essential to ensure reliable, evidence-based Arabic orthodontic content for caregivers and patients.

Keywords:  arabic websites; discern; early orthodontic treatment; honcode; jama benchmarks; online health information; orthodontics; quality assessment; readability

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.100518
JMIR Form Res. 2025 Dec 29. 9 e82265

Pro- and Antifluoride Use Messages on YouTube in Japan: Content Analysis.

Hikari Sophia Nagao, Tsuyoshi Okuhara, Hiroe Suzuki-Chiba, Hiroko Okada, Takahiro Kiuchi.

   Background: Dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions globally. In Japan, fluoride application-mainly via toothpaste, mouth rinses, and professional treatments-is a key preventive measure, as community water fluoridation is not implemented. Despite its proven effectiveness, fluoride use faces opposition from certain groups citing potential health risks. Social media platforms, especially YouTube, have become major sources of health information, but also facilitate the spread of misinformation, which may influence public perceptions and behaviors toward fluoride use.
Objective: This study aimed to analyze YouTube videos addressing fluoride use for caries prevention, focusing on the types of information presented and comparing the messages shared by proponents and opponents of fluoride use.
Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted on YouTube using fluoride-related keywords in Japanese. The top 50 videos for each keyword were screened, and after excluding irrelevant or duplicate content, 86 videos were analyzed. Videos were categorized as proponent ("pro"), opponent ("anti"), or others. The sources, intended audiences, and content themes were assessed. Interrater reliability was confirmed using the Cohen κ coefficient.
Results: Of the 86 analyzed videos, 58% (n=50) were categorized as "pro," 22% (n=19) as "anti," and 20% (n=17) as others. Proponent videos, mainly produced by dental professionals, emphasized scientific evidence, such as the mechanism of fluoride in preventing caries and guideline-based recommendations. Opponent videos, largely uploaded by laypersons, highlighted potential dangers of fluoride, including health risks and additives, and frequently promoted fluoride-free products. Opponent videos had higher daily viewership and engagement than proponent videos.
Conclusions: Anti-fluoride content on YouTube appears to reach broader audiences than expert-generated profluoride videos. Opponent messages tend to use emotionally charged communication, whereas proponents focus on scientific information. These differences in style may influence public perceptions of fluoride use. Public health professionals should develop engaging and accessible communication strategies to counter misinformation and promote evidence-based practices.

Keywords:  caries prevention; fluoride; health communication; misinformation; oral health; social media

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.2196/82265
J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2025 Nov 13.

Analysis of YouTube Videos Focusing on Ileostomy, Colostomy, Urostomy Care, and Pouching System Changes.

Tuba Sengul, Ayise Karadag, Havanur Kilic, Aleyna Ucanbelen, Ayse Silanur Demir.

   PURPOSE: This purpose of this study was to evaluate the content, reliability, and quality of selected videos posted on the YouTube video platform that describe fecal and urinary ostomy care, including pouching system changes.
DESIGN: Structured search of videos combined with descriptive of their content, reliability, and quality via validated instruments.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The topic of ostomy care was searched on the YouTube platform using relevant keywords from October to December 2023 without year limitation. In total, 101 videos were examined; 36 videos that met inclusion criteria were analyzed. Video content was assessed using the Assessment Tool for Stoma Care Skill: The Rubric approach. The reliability of videos was evaluated using the DISCERN Questionnaire, and video quality was assessed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS) instrument.
RESULTS: A total of 11 (30.56%) videos focused on colostomy care, 7 (19.45%) on ileostomy care, 4 (11.10%) on urostomy care, and 14 (38.89%) on general ostomy care. Nearly half (n = 17, 47.2%) were intended for educational purposes. More than half (58.3%, n = 21) were narrated or presented by health care professionals. The mean scores for content evaluation via the Rubric instrument was 20.89 (SD 7.494). The mean score on the GQS instrument, used to evaluate quality, was 2.08 (SD 0.996) and the mean score on the DISCERN instrument, used to evaluate reliability, was 2.47 (SD 0.810). All scores were determined to be below average for content, reliability, and quality were below average.
CONCLUSION: Videos intended to guide ostomy care and pouching system changes were found to be below average in content, quality, and reliability, potentially leading viewers to incorrect ostomy care practices. We recommend creation of videos using best practice guidelines to enhance their usefulness to persons living with an ostomy and their caregivers.

Keywords:  Col; Ileostomy; Online videos; Ostomy; Ostomy pouching system change; Social media; Stoma; Urostomy; ostomy

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1097/WON.0000000000001229
BMC Oral Health. 2025 Dec 27.

Evaluation of the quality, accuracy, and reliability of YouTube™ videos on laminate veneer treatment in Turkish.

Baturalp Arslan, Ezgi Arslan.

   AIM: YouTube™, a social media platform with a wide range of video content, is widely used in the information acquisition process. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of information on YouTube™ regarding laminate veneer treatment in dentistry.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, videos on the social media platform YouTube™ (https://www.youtube.com) were evaluated. The term used for the search was ''laminate veneer''. Specialised tools and scoring criteria are required to objectively assess the quality, accuracy and reliability of videos. DISCERN, the Modified Global Quality Index (mGQS) scale, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) and the HONcode guidelines are frequently used to assess the quality of videos. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS 20.0 software (IBM SPSS Statistics, v20; IBM Corp) at a 95% confidence level. The normality of the DISCERN, JAMA and mGQS measurements was examined using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to examine whether the measurements showed significant differences according to source and content groups. The relationships between variables were examined using correlation analysis.
RESULTS: A total of 109 YouTube™ videos on laminate veneer treatment in dentistry were evaluated for their content, quality, accuracy and reliability. The average length of the videos was 2.59 min. The average number of likes was 44.0 and the average number of comments on the videos was 6.8. It was determined that the content of laminate veneer treatment is focused on informative videos. For DISCERN, the mean of the informative content group was higher than the other groups. For JAMA, the mean of the informative group was higher than the advertisement and case presentation group, the mean of the educational group was higher than the advertisement group and for mGQS, the mean of the informative and educational group was higher than the advertisement and case presentation group (p < 0.05). The DISCERN measure revealed a positive correlation with JAMA at a level of 79.4%, the mGQS measure showed a positive correlation with DISCERN at a level of 89.4% and with JAMA, at a level of 83.3%.
CONCLUSION: In this study in which YouTubeTM videos about laminate veneer treatment were analysed, it was discovered that the accuracy and reliability level of the videos are moderate. Patients wishing to acquire information regarding the treatment are indeed able to do so reliably by watching these videos. Moreover, the number of quality videos for educational purposes should be increased for dental students.

Keywords:  Dental veneers; Diş estetik; Gülüş tasarımı; Internet; Porselen veneer; Social media

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-025-07597-5
Healthcare (Basel). 2025 Dec 10. pii: 3224. [Epub ahead of print]13(24):

Quality and Reliability of YouTube Videos on Poisonings, Insect Bites, and Envenomations.

Ali Halici, Behçet Demir, Çağla Özdemir.

  Background: YouTube has become one of the most widely used platforms for medical education and patient information. However, the accuracy and reliability of such unregulated content remain highly variable and sometimes misleading. This study aimed to evaluate the quality, reliability, and educational value of YouTube videos related to poisonings, insect bites, and envenomations using validated scoring systems. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of YouTube videos was conducted using the search terms "approach to insect bites and stings," "approach to poisonings," "approach to scorpion envenomation," "approach to snake envenomation," and "approach to mushroom poisoning." Searches were performed in incognito mode on August 1, 2025. Only English-language videos shorter than one hour were included. Video quality and reliability were evaluated using the Global Quality Score (GQS), modified DISCERN (mDISCERN), and Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks, while viewer engagement was measured using the Video Power Index (VPI). Results: A total of 279 videos were analyzed. The mean ± SD scores were as follows: GQS, 3.53 ± 1.09; mDISCERN, 3.53 ± 1.08; and JAMA, 2.63 ± 0.96. Based on the GQS, 59.5% of the videos were high quality, 20.8% moderate quality, and 19.7% low quality; thus, approximately 40% of the evaluated videos (low- and moderate-quality categories combined) did not meet optimal quality standards. Videos on snake envenomation and general poisoning had significantly higher quality and reliability scores (p < 0.001). Educational, physician-sourced, and physician-presented videos achieved higher GQS, JAMA, and mDISCERN values (p < 0.001 for all). However, no significant differences were found in the VPI, indicating that popularity metrics did not correlate with content quality. Conclusions: YouTube provides wide access to poisoning-related educational materials, but content quality varies considerably, and a substantial proportion of videos fall below acceptable quality thresholds. Videos produced or presented by physicians are more reliable, whereas popularity is not a valid indicator of scientific accuracy. Active involvement of healthcare professionals and academic institutions, together with platform-level quality verification and visibility strategies, is essential to improve the credibility and impact of online health information.

Keywords:  YouTube videos; poisoning; web-based health information

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13243224
JMIR Form Res. 2025 Dec 30. 9 e76715

Quality Assessment of Shock Videos on Video Sharing Platforms: Cross-Sectional Study.

Wenxin Wang, Luping Cheng, Xia Hu, Chuanliang Pan.

   Background: As a highly lethal circulatory failure syndrome, the pathophysiological mechanisms of shock can lead to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), which significantly increases the demand for intensive care and the length of hospitalization. There is therefore an urgent need for the public to be informed about health-related issues. In recent years, videos have become a significant medium for health education, and this study aimed to evaluate shock-related videos on video sharing platforms.
Objective: The objective of this study is to identify the top 100 videos related to impact on TikTok, Bilibili, and Xiaohongshu. These videos will then be assessed in terms of their effectiveness and credibility. Following this evaluation, relevant recommendations will be provided.
Methods: The study included a search for videos related to shock on the three video-sharing platforms: TikTok, Bilibili, and Xiaohongshu. The Global Quality Score (GQS) and mDISCERN tools were used to evaluate the credibility and quality of the videos, in addition to employing the Patient Education Materials Evaluation Tool for Audiovisual Content (PEMAT-A/V). Finally, the video was evaluated by examining disease definitions, clinical manifestations, risk factors, assessment, management, and outcomes.
Results: A total of 244 videos (TikTok:87, Bilibili:80, Xiaohongshu:77）were retrieved from the three platforms. The overall video quality was found to be moderately low. The majority of videos were uploaded by health advocates (n=102, 41.8%) and health professionals (n=98, 40.1%). The individual video sources of the GQS were of lower quality (1-3), the mDISCERN scores were moderate (2-4), and the quality of individual users is higher than that of organizational users. The PEMAT A/V scores were as follows: in the overall comprehensibility evaluation, 91% (220) videos of the scores were above 70%; in the actionability evaluation, 65% (157) videos of the scores were below 70%. It should be noted that the actionability scores for different video sources were generally low. In 172 videos (70.4%), the definition of shock and its clinical manifestations were explained in detail, while in 137 videos (56.1%), the definition of shock and its clinical manifestations were also clearly explained. The majority of videos provided a relatively comprehensive explanation of the definition of shock and its clinical signs and symptoms.
Conclusions: Our study have demonstrated that the content and information quality of shock videos is unsatisfactory, as a general rule. This underscores the necessity for pertinent regulatory bodies to oversee the caliber of health-related videos, and for content creators to enhance the quality of their content.

Keywords:  GQS; Global Quality Score; PEMAT A/V; Patient Education Materials Evaluation Tool for Audiovisual Content; mDISCERN; quality assessment; shock; video

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.2196/76715
Comput Inform Nurs. 2025 Dec 29.

Evaluating the Content, Quality, and Reliability of Migraine-related Videos on TikTok in China: Opportunities and Challenges for Health Information Dissemination.

Yanli Guo, Ziyi Ma, Jingyuan Xue, Xiaowei Zhou, Ling Wang, Ci Dong.

  This descriptive cross-sectional study investigated the content, quality, and reliability of migraine-related videos on TikTok. The top 200 migraine-related TikTok videos (176 eligible) were analyzed to assess content quality and reliability using Goobie's 6 questions and the DISCERN questionnaire. Although 98.8% (174/176) of the videos were physician-uploaded, 58.5% lacked disease definitions, and 34.7% omitted outcomes. While physician-uploaded videos had higher DISCERN scores, 36.93% still received a "poor" rating, and no correlation was found between video quality and engagement metrics (likes, shares) or duration. Despite TikTok's potential for health education, migraine-related content remains inconsistent and biased, highlighting the need for improved, evidence-based public health messaging on social media platforms. This study investigates the quality and reliability of migraine-related TikTok videos and identifies the issues, aiming to promote the improvement of migraine science video quality in the future.

Keywords:  Health information; Migraine; Patient education; TikTok; Video quality

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1097/CIN.0000000000001380
J Clin Exp Dent. 2025 Oct;17(11): e1356-e1367

TikTok as a Source of Information on Temporomandibular Disorders: Reliable Health Education or Misinformation?

Maria Amália Dias Pereira Calças, Caio Sberni Pinheiro de Souza, Samira Guimarães Andrade, Luiz Guilherme Spadon-Brito, Alex Moreira Mélo, Melissa de Oliveira Melchior, Jardel Francisco Mazzi-Chaves, Laís Valencise Magri.

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are prevalent musculoskeletal conditions affecting the orofacial region, often requiring interdisciplinary management. Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have become popular sources of health-related information. However, concerns persist regarding the reliability and educational value of user-generated content. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and educational value of TikTok videos on TMD and compare content characteristics across three categories of creators: general users, dental care professionals, and other healthcare professionals.
Material and Methods: A descriptive observational cross-sectional study was conducted, analyzing TikTok videos related to TMD using predefined inclusion criteria. A total of 98 videos were assessed based on three validated scoring systems: Video Content Score (VCS), Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information (DISCERN), and Global Quality Score (GQS). Inter-rater reliability was established (Cohen's kappa 0.86). Statistical analyses, including the Kruskal-Walli's test and post-hoc Dunn's test, were performed to compare video characteristics and engagement metrics among content creator groups. It was also performed a quali-quantitative analysis of the scoring systems.
Results: The analyzed TikTok videos on TMD showed low educational quality (VCS = 2.0, GQS = 2.0, median) and poor to fair reliability (DISCERN = 33.0), highlighting their limited and incomplete information. Although no statistically significant differences were found among content creator groups (VCS: p = 0.453; DISCERN: p = 0.239; GQS: p = 0.341), videos by healthcare professionals tended to have higher quality scores, presenting more structured content aligned with scientific guidelines on TMD. The analyzed TikTok videos on TMD exhibit critical deficiencies, including inadequate assessment, classification, and discussion of etiology and risk factors. Low VCS, DISCERN, and GQS scores highlight the lack of evidence-based content, poor reliability, and limited educational value, reinforcing concerns about misinformation.
Conclusions: Despite TikTok's growing role in disseminating health-related information, the overall educational quality of TMD-related videos remains inadequate. While healthcare professionals tend to produce more structured content, the lack of significant differences across creator groups underscores a general deficiency in reliable, evidence-based information on the platform. These findings highlight the need for greater oversight, content validation, and expert-reviewed educational initiatives to improve the credibility of TMD-related information on social media.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.4317/jced.62754