Evidence map›Paper›PMID 42168977›Full record

ArticleBMC medical education2026

VirtuScope: development of a high-fidelity virtual microscope simulation system for histology education.

Weixin Huang, Xiaoting Li, Xiaotong Cao, Kaiqi Zhang, Yuwei Lin, Minwen Zhan, Jingyan Chen, Zhongjing Su, Yang Gao

Abstract read
PubMed Full text at PMC Publisher
In one paragraph

Article in BMC medical education, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.

0numbers the graph read from it
0cells of the map it votes in
0citing papers in PubMed
–field-weighted citation impact
1 · What the graph read from it

What it found

Each row is one number read from the abstract, on the scale the paper reported it, with its interval. Left of the dashed line favours the treatment, right favours the comparator. Under each row is the sentence it came from. New to these charts? A ten-minute tutorial.

The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.

2 · The registry

The trial behind it

Trials whose registry record cites this paper, or whose number appears in the abstract. A trial that started after this paper was published is citing it as background, not reporting it.

Neither the registry nor the abstract names a trial number. If this is a trial report, that itself is worth knowing.

3 · Its place in the literature

Who cites it

0 citing papers in PubMed.

No citing paper in PubMed yet.

4 · The record

Corrections and comments

PubMed lists nothing against this paper. Absence here is not a guarantee, only a check that was made.

5 · Who and what money

Authors and funding

9 authors.

Weixin HuangDepartment of Electronic Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
Xiaoting LiDepartment of Electronic Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
Xiaotong CaoDepartment of Electronic Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
Kaiqi ZhangDepartment of Electronic Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
Yuwei LinDepartment of Histology and Embryology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China.
Minwen ZhanDepartment of Histology and Embryology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China.
Jingyan ChenDepartment of Histology and Embryology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China.
Zhongjing SuDepartment of Histology and Embryology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China.
Yang GaoDepartment of Histology and Embryology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China. gaoyang@stu.edu.cn.

Funding

Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province 2025A1515011338Guangdong Province Undergraduate Higher Education Teaching Reform Project 2023, No.673Guangdong Provincial Graduate Education Innovation Program 2025KCJS-043Scientific Research Foundation for Talents of Shantou University NTF22008Teaching Quality Enhancement Project of Shantou University Medical College 2025-03
6 · The paper itself

Abstract

backgroundMicroscope operation is a core skill in morphological laboratory education. However, traditional instructional approaches often face limitations in equipment accessibility, procedural guidance, and hands-on opportunities. With the advancement of virtual simulation technologies, new pathways have emerged for improving practical skill training. This study presents the development of VirtuScope, a high-fidelity virtual microscope simulation system, and explores its application value in histology education.

methodsVirtuScope was developed as a standalone virtual simulation system for microscopes, featuring 1:1 3D structural reconstruction and high-fidelity simulation of physical interactions and optics, powered by advanced human-computer interaction and computer graphics. Key simulation features include focus adjustment, objective switching, and light source control. In the instructional design, VirtuScope was integrated into a blended teaching model combining video guidance, self-directed practice, and progressive transition to real microscope use. Student feedback and learning outcomes were evaluated using pre- and post-course questionnaires and knowledge tests.

resultsStudents rated the system highly in terms of image clarity, interactivity, and instructional support. Most participants reported improved understanding of microscope structure and operation, and over 90% expressed willingness to use VirtuScope in future learning. Knowledge test scores showed significant post-course improvement (p < 0.001), and the overall recommendation rate reached 98.52%.

conclusionVirtuScope demonstrates strong adaptability and educational support capacity. Its visual, interactive, and repeatable features enhance learning efficiency and practical competence, offering a scalable complement to traditional microscopy training. Moreover, it provides a feasible solution for institutions with limited laboratory resources, extending access to high-quality microscopy education across diverse learning environments.

Indexed as

Computer SimulationHistologyMicroscopyComputer-Assisted InstructionEducational MeasurementHumansUser-Computer InterfaceVirtual RealityComputer graphicsHigh-fidelity simulationHistology educationMedical laboratory trainingVirtual microscope simulation

Identifiers

PMID42168977
PMCPMC13371007

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Registered trials

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Read under generation 80e0d062 · epoch 390. Bibliography from PubMed, PubMed Central and OpenAlex; grants from NIH RePORTER; trial links from ClinicalTrials.gov; estimates, votes and beliefs from the OpenQuestion graph.