Erratum to uncontrolled and under-diagnosed asthma in a Damascus shelter during the Syrian crisis.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.21037/jtd.2017.

Peers versus professional training of basic life support in Syria: a randomized controlled trial.

Background: Peer training has been identified as a useful tool for delivering undergraduate training in basic life support (BLS) which is fundamental as an initial response in cases of emergency. This study aimed to (1) Evaluate the efficacy of peer-led model in basic life support training among medical students in their first three years of study, compared to professional-led training and (2) To assess the efficacy of the course program and students' satisfaction of peer-led training.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial with blinded assessors was conducted on 72 medical students from the pre-clinical years (1st to 3rd years in Syria) at Syrian Private University.

Uncontrolled and under-diagnosed asthma in a Damascus shelter during the Syrian crisis.

Background: Studies have shown that poor shelter or dwelling conditions may lead to deteriorations in health. Those with asthma may be more susceptible to compromised living conditions and stress leading to a higher risk of asthma exacerbations. To describe the asthma control and quality of life of individuals with diagnosed asthma living in a shelter in Damascus, Syria and estimate the prevalence of respiratory symptoms in shelter dwellers without diagnosed asthma.

Progressive liver failure post acute hepatitis A, over a three-month period, resulting in hepatorenal syndrome and death.

Hepatitis A is a common viral illness worldwide. It usually results in an acute, self-limiting disease and only rarely leads to fulminant hepatic failure or any other complications. During the period of conflict in Syria, and due to the damages to water infrastructure and poor sanitation, a dramatic increase in hepatitis A virus infection has been documented.

Self-reported study habits for enhancing medical students' performance in the National Medical Unified Examination.

Background: The National Medical Unified Examination (NMUE) is currently required for graduation, joining postgraduate medical training, and practicing medicine in Syria.

Objective: To investigate self-reported study habits that correlate with high performance on the NMUE.

Methods: First through 3(rd) year residents at the three main hospitals in Damascus, Syria, were asked to complete a retrospective cross-sectional survey investigating their study habits and previous scores.