Tạp chí Nghiên cứu Y học

A rare homozygous variant of the NKX6-2 gene in association with profound intellectual disability

Hoang Thi Ngoc Lan — 2025-05-30

This is a study of five children with profound intellectual disability, spastic quadriplegia, and nystagmus in two distinct families. Whole exome sequencing (WES) identified a homozygous c.234dup variant in the NKX6-2 gene relating to Spastic ataxia 8 with hypomyelinating leukodystrophy - the underlying cause of severe neurodevelopmental impairment in both families. The study contributed additional data on NKX6-2 variants in Vietnamese patients with intellectual disabilities and explored the genotype-phenotype correlation. Furthermore, it emphasized the importance of early genetic testing in children presenting with developmental delay, spastic quadriplegia, and unexplained nystagmus, especially when brain MRI findings suggested hypomyelinating leukodystrophy. This approach will provide a critical basis for diagnosis, patient management, and genetic counseling.

Efficacy and safety of R-GEMOX in relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: A single-center experience in Vietnam

Dinh Thi Hai Duyen — 2025-05-30

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common histologic subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), yet a substantial proportion of patients experience relapse or refractory disease following initial therapy. Among various salvage regimens, R-GEMOX - comprising rituximab, gemcitabine, and oxaliplatin - has shown promising efficacy and a tolerable safety profile. This retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the treatment outcomes and adverse events associated with R-GEMOX in patients with relapsed or refractory CD20-positive DLBCL treated at Hanoi Oncology Hospital. A total of 39 patients who received at least four cycles of R-GEMOX between January 2018 and May 2024 were included. Treatment response was assessed using the Lugano 2014 criteria, and toxicities were graded per CTCAE v4.0. The median age of the cohort was 57.2 years old. The overall response rate (ORR) was 69.2%, including a complete response rate of 28.2% and a partial response rate of 41.0%. Stable disease and progressive disease were observed in 7.7% and 23.1% of patients, respectively. Grade 3-4 hematologic toxicities occurred in 30.8% of cases. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 9.5 months, while median overall survival (OS) reached 15.7 months. These findings suggest that R-GEMOX is an effective and tolerable salvage regimen in the management of relapsed/refractory DLBCL, particularly for patients ineligible for high-dose chemotherapy or stem cell transplantation.

Evaluating the elimination of iCasp9-IL15 CAR-T cells using photosensitizers AP20187 in vitro

Can Van Mao — 2025-05-30

This study was conducted to evaluate the ability to eliminate iCasp9-IL15 Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T (CAR-T) cells using the photosensitizers AP20187 in vitro. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were activated with Dynabeads Human T-Activator CD3/CD28 and IL-2 to optimize the concentration of the antibiotic blasticidin for screening iCasp9-IL15 CAR-T cells. iCasp9-IL15 CAR-T cells after proliferation with 1D2 artificial antigen-presenting cells, were screened using blasticidin. Subsequently, the iCasp9 suicide gene of these cells was activated at various concentrations of AP20187 photosensitizer. The results showed that after 5 days of culture, a blasticidin concentration of 15.0 µg/mL was used to screen iCasp9-IL15 CAR-T cells (activated, non-transformed PBMC showed > 95% cell death). The proportion of iCasp9-IL15 cells after blasticidin screening reached approximately 75%. Using AP20187 at the concentration of 20 nM resulted in almost complete elimination of iCasp9-IL15 CAR-T cells (survival rate: 2.14%). So, iCasp9-IL15 CAR-T cells can almost be eliminated by AP20187 at a concentration of 20 nM in case of high toxicity during treatment.

Identification of variant of insulin receptor gene in resistant diabetes

Nguyen Ngoc Khanh — 2025-05-30

Insulin resistance is defined as a reduced biological response of target tissues to normal insulin levels and is a major mechanism leading to type 2 diabetes, particularly in obese individuals. Beyond obesity, other causes include medications (e.g., glucocorticoids, antiretrovirals, oral contraceptives), stress, pregnancy, dyslipidemia, insulin receptor autoantibodies (Type B insulin resistance), and genetic defects. Among genetic causes, mutations in the insulin receptor (INSR) gene can lead to severe insulin resistance known as Type A insulin resistance. This rare inherited disorder belongs to a spectrum of monogenic insulin resistance syndromes, including Donohue and Rabson-Mendenhall syndromes. We report a 12-year-old boy with diabetes due to an INSR mutation. He presented with polyuria, polydipsia, and weight loss. His height was 142cm (0 SD), and BMI decreased from 23.3 to 21.3 kg/m² (> 95th percentile). No acanthosis nigricans was observed. Lab results showed fasting glucose 16.8 mmol/L, HbA1c 7.8%, and HOMA-IR 11.2. Genetic testing revealed a novel heterozygous variant c.4115G>A (p.Arg1372Gln) of INSR gene; the mother carried the same variant, while the father was wild type. The patient responded well to lifestyle modification, insulin, and metformin therapy.

Study of associated factors with risk of fall in frail older patients

Nguyen Ngoc Tam — 2025-05-30

The frailty syndrome and fall risk go hand in hand in the ageing process, significantly affecting the quality of life in elderly patients. The purpose of this study was to explore factors related to fall risk in older patients with frailty syndrome. A cross-sectional study of older frail patients was conducted, at the National Geriatric Hospital. All patients were diagnosed as having frailty by using Freid’s criteria. Factors associated with fall risk of older frail patients are age (greater or equal to 80 years old) (OR = 2.315), polypharmacy (OR = 2.784), depression (OR = 3.718), IADLs dependence (OR = 4.589), risk of malnutrition (OR = 2.089), lower limb strength (OR = 2.807) and cognitive impairment (OR = 4.559). An effective multidisciplinary strategy to prevent and reduce fall risks for older people having frailty is necessary, including intervention on polypharmacy, depression, dependences, malnutrition, low physical performance and cognitive impairments.

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy with FLOT for locally advanced gastric cancer: A single-center experience from Vietnam

Dinh Thi Hai Duyen — 2025-05-30

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) with the FLOT regimen (5-Fluorouracil, Leucovorin, Oxaliplatin, Docetaxel) has shown promising results for locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC). This study aimed to evaluate the initial treatment outcomes of LAGC patients receiving neoadjuvant FLOT at Hanoi Oncology Hospital. A descriptive cohort study was conducted on 35 patients with LAGC (cT3-4 and/or cN2-3, M0) treated with neoadjuvant FLOT between October 2021 and February 2024. Clinical data, radiological and histopathological responses, surgical outcomes, and adverse events were retrospectively and prospectively collected and analyzed. The median age was 62 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 4.8:1. The majority presented with epigastric pain (80%) and tumors located in the antrum (68.6%). Among all patients, 91.4% were cT4 (62.8% cT4b), and 97.1% had lymph node metastasis on imaging. Thirty patients (85.7%) completed 4 FLOT cycles. Radiologically, 50% had partial response (PR), 43.3% had stable disease (SD), and 6.7% showed progression. Of the 32 patients who underwent surgery, 29 (90.6%) had radical resection with an R0 rate of 100%. Pathologic complete response (pCR) was observed in 6.7% of cases. The postoperative lymph node-negative rate (ypN0) was 25%. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy using the FLOT regimen demonstrated favorable disease control, enabling high R0 resection rates in patients with locally advanced resect able gastric cancer. These results support the use of FLOT in carefully selected Asian populations with LAGC, although further studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are warranted.

Outcomes of incisional hernia using laparoscopic sutured abdominal wall reconstruction

Tran Ngoc Dung — 2025-05-30

Incisional hernia (IH) is a common condition after major abdominal surgeries. To date, surgery particularly laparoscopic techniques is the primary treatment, offering several advantages. This study aims to describe the surgical technique and evaluate outcomes of laparoscopic sutured abdominal wall reconstruction for IH at Hanoi Medical University Hospital. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on 11 patients treated from 2019 to 2024. The male-to-female ratio was 3:8, with a mean age of 57.4 ± 12.1 years old (range: 41 - 79 years old). The main symptom prompting medical consultation was the appearance of an abdominal mass at the site of a previous surgical incision, with no case of strangulation complications. The mean hernia defect width was 6.2 ± 1.8cm with the largest measuring 10cm and the smallest 4cm. The mean operative time was 69.1 ± 36.6 minutes (range: 30 - 120 minutes), with no recorded intraoperative complication. The average postoperative hospital stay was 1.8 ± 0.98 days (range: 1 - 4 days). No case of chronic pain or recurrence were reported during the follow-up period of 18 - 24 months. Laparoscopic sutured abdominal wall reconstruction for the treatment of IH is a safe and effective surgical method with minimal complications and a low recurrence rate.

Phenotypic characteristics and outcomes of late-onset urea cycle disorders

Nguyen Ngoc Khanh — 2025-05-30

Urea cycle disorders (UCD) are characterized by elevated blood ammonia levels due to deficiencies in enzymes essential for urea metabolism. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce mortality and sequelae. Objective: To describe the phenotypic characteristics and treatment outcomes of late-onset UCD from 2010 to September 2021. Results: 32 patients from 27 families with a median age of onset of 30 months old (range: 2-180 months). 33.3% of patients had a relevant family history. Reasons for medical consultation included vomiting, fatigue/poor appetite, and lethargy. Clinical presentation upon admission: 68.8% had impaired consciousness, 75% exhibited vomiting and poor appetite, 15% experienced seizures, and 6.2% presented with muscle tone disorders. Laboratory findings showed hyperammonemia in 93.8% of cases, with elevated lactate, increased liver enzymes, and decreased prothrombin time in 87.5% of patients. Treatment with ammonia-lowering medications, hemodialysis, and glucose infusion successfully saved 87.5% of patients. Conclusion: Blood ammonia testing is essential in patients with altered consciousness, elevated liver enzymes, and decreased prothrombin time. Glucose infusion, ammonia-lowering medications, and hemodialysis demonstrate favorable outcomes.
Urea cycle disorders (UCD) are characterized by elevated blood ammonia levels due to deficiencies in enzymes essential for urea metabolism. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce mortality and sequelae. Objective: To describe the phenotypic characteristics and treatment outcomes of late-onset UCD from 2010 to September 2021. Results: 32 patients from 27 families with a median age of onset of 30 months (range: 2-180 months). 33.3% of patients had a relevant family history. Reasons for medical consultation included vomiting, fatigue/poor appetite, and lethargy. Clinical presentation upon admission: 68.8% had impaired consciousness, 75% exhibited vomiting and poor appetite, 15% experienced seizures, and 6.2% presented with muscle tone disorders. Laboratory findings showed hyperammonemia in 93.8% of cases, with elevated lactate, increased liver enzymes, and decreased prothrombin time in 87.5% of patients. Treatment with ammonia-lowering medications, hemodialysis, and glucose infusion successfully saved 87.5% of patients. Conclusion: Blood ammonia testing is essential in patients with altered consciousness, elevated liver enzymes, and decreased prothrombin time. Glucose infusion, ammonia-lowering medications, and hemodialysis demonstrate favorable outcomes.

Frequency of oncologic emergencies in children with newly diagnosed cancer at the Vietnam National Children Hospital

Bui Ngoc Lan — 2025-05-30

Oncologic emergencies are life-threatening complications that require urgent recognition and management in pediatric cancer patients. This study aimed to evaluate the pattern of oncologic emergencies as well as its frequency in newly diagnosed childhood cancers at Vietnam National Children’s Hospital (VNCH). From July 2019 to June 2020, 392 children aged 0 - 15 years were newly diagnosed with cancer. The median age was 3 years old, and males accounted for 58% of cases. The most common forms of cancers were acute leukemia (37.8%), neuroblastoma (19.4%), lymphoma (11.5%), and malignant brain tumors (9.9%). Oncologic emergencies were present in 19.4% of patients at diagnosis, with hematological emergencies such as severe anemia (25%) and thrombocytopenia (26%) being the most frequent, followed by respiratory failure (17%) and leukocytosis (11%). Mortality within 7 days due to oncologic emergencies was 7.9%, primarily caused by superior vena cava syndrome and tumor lysis syndrome. These findings emphasize the need for early detection and timely management of oncologic emergencies to improve treatment outcomes in pediatric cancer patients in Vietnam.

Evaluation on quality of life improvement in patients after microvascular decompression treatment of hemifacial spasm

Le Thi Ngoc Lan — 2025-05-30

Hemifacial spasm (HFS) while not a life-threatening condition, still causes significant facial disfigurement and consequently decreases patient’s quality of life (QoL). A retrospective study was conducted at the Neurosurgery Department of Viet Duc University Hospital with 36 patients with HFS who underwent MVD. The clinical data of these patients were collected prospectively and consecutively from June 2023 to June 2024. The validated, questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L, EQ-VAS, PHQ-9, Jankovic Rating Scale) was used to evaluate the QoL in patients with HFS after MVD. Among 36 participants enrolled in this study, there were 6 males and 30 females with a mean age of 49.02 ± 10.03 years old. The mean score of preoperative JRS and postoperative JRS were 3.17 ± 0.38 and 1.44 ± 1.38 respectively. There was a correlation of severity of HFS with patient’s QoL in physical and mental domains (p < 0.05). There were significant improvements of social life frequency between pre- and postoperative. HFS affects QoL both physically and mentally. Patients with severe HFS symptoms or comorbidities are at higher risk of worse QoL. MVD not only provides high spasm-relief rate, but also leads to significant higher QoL after surgery.

Self-stigma among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder in Vietnam

Khanh Thi Loan — 2025-05-30

This qualitative study was conducted to explore self-stigma among 11 parents of children with autism spectrum disorder receiving treatment at the National Children’s Hospital and five special education centers in Hanoi. Self-stigma was assessed through in-depth interviews using an interview guide with a semi-structured questionnaire of 5 open-ended questions. Findings from these interviews indicated that many parents experienced negative emotions when raising children with autism spectrum disorder, felt embarrassed of their children’s behavior and actively avoid social interactions. The study emphasizes the importance of implementing educational intervention programs to reduce self- stigma in this group.

The value of magnetic resonance imaging in assessing the circumferential resection margin of rectal cancer

Pham Hoang Ha — 2025-05-30

This study evaluated the value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in assessing the circumferential resection margin (CRM) and lymph node metastasis in rectal cancer. This cross-sectional study, conducted at Viet Duc University Hospital between October 2016 and May 2019, involved 109 rectal cancer patients, who underwent rectal resection after receiving pre-operative MRI staging. The correlation between preoperative MRI and postoperative histological analysis was evaluated regarding CRM invasion, the distance from the tumor or metastatic lymph node to the mesorectal fascia, the tumor stages (≤ T3, > T3), and lymph node metastasis. MRI had an accuracy of 86.2% in predicting invasive CRM with a sensitivity of 65.0%, a specificity of 91.0%, a positive diagnostic value of 61.9%, and a negative diagnostic value of 92.1%. Regarding the diagnosis of metastatic lymph nodes, MRI showed an accuracy of 50.5%, a sensitivity of 88.6%, and a specificity of 24.6%, the positive diagnostic value was 44.3%, while the negative diagnostic value was 76.2%. These results indicate a strong correlation between the performance of MRI and pathology for diagnosis of CRM invasion. When detecting metastatic lymph nodes, MRI exhibited higher sensitivity at the expense of lower specificity.

Factors related to physical activity levels among older diabetic patients with uncontrolled blood glucose

Nguyen Thi Thu Huong — 2025-05-30

This cross-sectional study was conducted to explore factors related to physical acitvity levels of older type 2 diabetic people with uncontrolled blood glucose (HbA1c ≥ 7%). Physical activity (PA) levels was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form. Association existed between the duration of diabetes, chronic complications and HbA1c levels with the extent of PA levels. Prevalence of patients who have been diagnosed with diabetes ≥ 5 years, with at least one chronic diabetes complication or HbA1c level ≥ 8% were significantly higher in lower PA level. Peripheral neuropathy, cerebrovascular, and renal complications, were identified as related factors to the PA levels. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed independent factors associated with low PA levels were cerebrovascular complications (OR = 7.2), risk of sarcopenia (OR = 5.9), peripheral nerve complication (OR = 4.5), lipid disorder (OR = 4.0), age > 75 years old (OR = 2.5), and an HbA1c ≥ 8% (OR = 2.5). This result highlighted some independent factors were associated with low PA level among older people with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. However, future studies with larger sample sizes and longitudinal follow-up studies need to be done to understand these issues. Targeted interventions may help mitigate these risks.

Effectiveness and safety of LX1 cream in the clinical treatment of facial contusions

Bui Tien Hung — 2025-05-30

This research was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of LX1 cream in the clinical treatment of facial contusions. The study was conducted on 66 patients diagnosed with facial contusions, divided into 2 groups: Control group with patients treated according to the anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-edema protocol currently used in the department. Study group with patients treated according to the anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-edema protocol currently used in the department combined with the application of LX1 cream. The results showed that the study group had better improvement in pain levels according to the VAS scale with p < 0.05. The scores to assess the level of bruising after treatment of the study group that had a better tendency than the control group. We haven’t found any side effects of LX1 cream in the treatment of facial contusions.

Preliminary evaluation of the effectiveness of autologous bone marrow stem cell therapy in supporting the treatment of biliary atresia

Nguyen Pham Anh Hoa — 2025-05-30

Biliary atresia (BA) is a rare hepatobiliary disorder. Stem cell therapy is expected to serve as a supportive treatment to slow fibrosis progression. This study aimed to assess the therapeutic efficacy and the safety of the Kasai procedure combined with autologous bone marrow stem cell (ABMSC) infusion. From May 2021 to December 2024, 82 pediatric BA patientswho underwent the combined treatment at Vietnam National Children’s Hospital were enrolled. The mean age at surgery was 76.8 ± 12.6 days. No severe complication occurred during stem cell harvesting or follow-up time frame. The successful bile drainage rate at 6 months post-surgery was 58.5%. Post-operatively, transaminase levels gradually declined and stabilized from 12 months. GGT levels peaked at 3 months (p < 0.001), then declined from 6 months and stayed stabilized. PELD scores improved significantly. Liver tissue elasticity increased gradually until 12 months (14.6 ± 4.5kPa) and then stabilized. Mean post-surgical survival was 34.3 ± 1.7 months, and 30-month survival rate was 64.7%. Portal hypertension occurred in 55% of patients, mostly in those with high-dose MSC therapy. Despite benefits achieved in liver function improvement, progressive cirrhosis remains a challenge, necessitating further research on optimizing stem cell therapy in BA treatment.

Effects of FU Plus tablets on intracavernosal pressure in animal experimentsanimals

Pham Thi Van Anh — 2025-05-30

Erectile dysfunction is defined as the persistent inability to attain and maintain an erection sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual performance, that may affect physical and psychosocial health, and the patients quality of life. A popular trend is to discover and research therapeutic drugs derived from medicinal herbs. FU Plus tablets including Epimedium extract, Tribulus Terrestris Extract, L-Arginine HCl, Red Ginseng extract, Zinc gluconate, Selenium yeast and Yohimbine HCl is a product expected to treat erectile dysfunction. The study was carried out to evaluate the effects of FU Plus tablets on the erectile function through intracavernosal pressure (ICP) in experimental animals. Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups of ten that were given normal saline, sildenafil and FU Plus tablets, respectively. ICP response after cavernous nerve stimulation was recorded. Sildenafil-treated rats and FU Plus-treated rats had shorter response latency, higher peak ICP and longer response duration than untreated control rats. In conclusion, FU Plus tablets have the potential for treating erectile dysfunction.

In vivo assessment of acute and subchronic toxicity of Nanochitin in experimental animals

Nguyen Thi Cha — 2025-05-30

This study aimed to evaluate the safety of Nanochitin through oral administration in experimental animals. The acute toxicity was determined in mice at ascending doses and the subchronic toxicity was evaluated in rats with oral doses of 15.6 mg/kg b.w/day and 46.8 mg/kg b.w/day for 30 days. As a result, in the course of the acute toxicity test, Nanochitin at the highest dose of 750 mg/kg did not express acute toxicity in mice. Along with the subchronic toxicity test, Nanochitin had no deleterious effect on hematological parameters, hepato-renal functions, macroscopic and microscopic images of the livers and kidneys of rats. In conclusion, Nanochitin does not appear to produce acute and subchronic toxicities in experimental animals.

Experimental evaluation of the subchronic toxicity of Phong Te Thap Ba Giang

Pham Thi Van Anh — 2025-05-30

Musculoskeletal disorders have become a global health burden. Phong Te Thap Ba Giang is a traditional medicine that has been used for a long time to treat various musculoskeletal disorders. This study was conducted to evaluate the subchronic toxicity of Phong te thap Ba Giang in experimental animals. Phong te thap Ba Giang was administered orally to Wistar rats at 4.32 pills/kg/day (equivalent to the recommended clinical dose) and 12.96 pills/kg/day (three times higher than the dose equivalent to the recommended clinical dose) for 12 consecutive weeks. The results showed that Phong Te Thap Ba Giang at both doses did not affect the general condition, body weight, hematological and biochemical parameters, and histological images of the liver and kidneys compared with the control group and baseline. In conclusion, Phong te thap Ba Giang did not cause subchronic toxicity in Wistar rats.

An experimental study on the skin irritant potential of Dinh Tho patch

Dam Thi Tu Anh — 2025-05-30

Dinh Tho patches are the transdermal combination of medicinal herbs including Dracaena cambodiana Pierre ex Gagnep, Cinnamomum cassia, Kaempferia galanga, Homalomena occulta, Caesalpinia sappan, Illicium verum, Artemisia vulgaris and Reynoutria japonica with the intended indication to treat symptoms of swelling, bruising, tension and pain of the musculoskeletal system. This study was carried out to examine the skin irritation of Dinh Tho patches in experimental animals. Each individual rabbit was applied (2.5x2.5cm) Dinh Tho patch on one side of the dorsal area and (2.5x2.5cm) sodium chloride-impregnated gauze in the other size as control. The degree of erythema and edema formation were observed and scored at 1 hour, 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours after patch removal. Our results showed that grade 1 or grade 2 erythema only appeared 1 hour after removal of the test product. There were no signof erythema, edema or other skin injury observed after 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours. It can be concluded that Dinh Tho patch did not cause skin irritation in rabbits.

A 90-day toxicological assessment of KRG hard capsules containing a water extract of Korean red ginseng in Wistar rats

Yang Deok-Chun — 2025-05-30

The KRG hard capsule was produced by Daedong Korea Ginseng Co. Ltd., with Korean red ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer) as its primary component. This study aimed to assess the toxicity of KRG following 90 days of repeated oral dosing. Male and female Wistar rats received the test capsule orally once daily at 120 and 360 mg/kg/day over 90 days. The Korean red ginseng extract administration did not lead to any significant toxicological effects regarding mortality, body weight, hematological parameters, serum biochemistry, gross pathological observations, or histopathological analysis. Consequently, based on this toxicological evaluation, the KRG hard capsules are considered safe and non-toxic. The findings may serve as adequate preclinical evidence to support the initiation of future clinical trials involving KRG.

Evaluating the acute toxicity and hepatoprotective effect of PROTECFUL hard capsule on paracetamol-induced acute hepatitis in mice

Tran Thanh Tung — 2025-05-30

Drug-induced liver injury is characterized by liver damage due to pharmaceutical compounds, resulting in a wide range of liver disorders, from asymptomatic elevations in liver enzymes to full liver failure. It is a leading cause of acute liver failure in many countries. This study investigated the acute toxicity and evaluated hepatoprotective effects on paracetamol-induced acute hepatitis of PROTECFUL hard capsules in Swiss mice. The acute toxicity was assessed through oral administration, and a fifty percent lethal dose was determined using the Litchfield-Wilcoxon method. In the paracetamol-induced acute hepatitis model, mice were orally administered distilled water, silymarin at 140 mg/kg per day, or PROTECFUL hard capsules at 345.6 and 1036.8 mg/kg/day. All indexes, including biochemical indicators (AST, ALT), liver malondialdehyde, glutathione concentration, and microscopic liver images, were evaluated. Regarding acute toxicity, our findings showed that the maximum tolerated dose was 35.4 times higher than the expected human dose without symptoms of acute toxicity. PROTECFUL-treated groups at both doses tended to decrease liver weight and lower liver enzyme activity compared to the model group. The histopathological examination of the liver in the PROTECFUL-treated groups tended to reduce liver degeneration and inflammatory cell infiltration. In summary, these findings suggest that PROTECFUL shows no acute toxicity and tends to have a hepatoprotective effect against paracetamol-induced liver injury.

In vitro xanthine oxidase inhibitory and in vivo hypouricemic activity of dual herbal combination comprising Carica papaya L. and Piper lolot C. DC leaves

Phan Hong Minh — 2025-05-30

Hyperuricemia has emerged as a major public health issue in recent years, with existing treatments often associated with negative side effects for patients. This research examined the anti-hyperuricemic properties of a dual herbal extract made from Carica papaya L. and Piper lolot C.DC leaves, utilizing a xanthine oxidase inhibitory assay and a hyperuricemic mouse model induced by potassium oxonate (500 mg/kg body weight). The results indicated that a 5-day treatment with the hexane herbal extracts (100 and 300 mg/kg) significantly lowered serum and urine uric acid levels in hyperuricemic mice and inhibited xanthine oxidase activity in vitro (IC50 of 27.39 ± 0.32 μg/mL), which could be the underlying mechanism for the observed urate-lowering effects, as the extract did not promote increased uric acid excretion in urine. Our findings imply that the combined extract of Carica papaya L. and Piper lolot C. DC leaves may help alleviate gout by inhibiting uric acid production.

Anti-inflammatory effects of the extracts from Ardisia silvestris Pitard leaves in experiment

Mai Phuong Thanh — 2025-05-30

This research aimed to explore the anti-inflammatory effects of n-hexane, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), and n-butanol extracts from the leaves of Ardisia silvestris Pitard, both in vitro and in vivo, specifically focusing on the EtOAc extract. The in vitro assessment of anti-inflammatory activity involved measuring the inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. The findings revealed that the EtOAc extract exhibited the highest potency, with an IC50 value of 52.10 ± 2.07 µg/mL, effectively inhibiting NO production without causing cellular damage. In vivo, the EtOAc extract’s anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated using carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats and the cotton pellet-induced granuloma test in mice. At both tested dosages, the EtOAc extract significantly reduced paw edema induced by carrageenan in rats. Additionally, it effectively inhibited exudate and granuloma formation following cotton pellet implantation at both doses, indicating its anti-inflammatory activity during the subacute phase of inflammation. Overall, these results strongly suggest that the ethyl acetate extract of Ardisia silvestris Pitard possesses significant anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial in traditionally treating various inflammatory conditions.

In vitro antioxidant and cytotoxic potential of Eclipta prostrata L. aerial part extracts

Phan Hong Minh — 2025-05-30

The phytochemical exploration in medicinal plants is increasingly recognized for its diverse pharmacological benefits. This research aims to evaluate the antioxidant potential and anticancer properties of Eclipta prostrata L. (EPL) extracts on human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7), hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2), and human gastric carcinoma (MKN-7) cell lines. The dried plant material was extracted in 70% ethanol, n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol solvents. The antioxidative properties of EPL extracts were assessed through ABTS and FRAP assays, while the antiproliferative effects were measured using the sulforhodamine B assay. Findings indicated that the ethyl acetate extract exhibited higher antioxidant and cytotoxic activities against the HepG2 cell line compared to other extracts. Future research should aim to isolate and characterize the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the observed anticancer and antioxidant effects, and clarify their mechanisms of action.

Prevalence of anxiety and associated factors among women undergoing gynecological surgery: A cross-sectional study

Nguyen Thi Thuy Chung — 2025-05-30

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and associated factors of anxiety among women scheduled for gynecological surgery. Conducted as a cross-sectional analysis, data collection involved structured interviews that assessed demographics, clinical history, perceptions of postoperative recovery, comprehension of surgical risks, and levels of social support. Anxiety was measured using the GAD-7 scale, and associations between anxiety severity and related factors were examined through ordinal logistic regression. Among the 300 participants, all reported some degree of anxiety, with 60% experiencing mild anxiety, 30% moderate, and 10% severe. Higher anxiety levels were notably linked to limited social support and lower comprehension of counseling. The high prevalence of anxiety observed underscores the need for comprehensive preoperative communication and robust support systems. These strategies could play a vital role in reducing anxiety, ultimately contributing to improved surgical recovery and overall patient well-being.

Prevalance of malnutrion and risk of malnutrition and related factors in uncontrolled type 2 diabetic older patients

Nguyen Thi Hoai Thu — 2025-05-30

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to identify the association between nutritional status and related factors among uncontrolled type 2 diabetic older patients. Variables including demographic information, body mass index, frailty, depression, physical activity daily living, comorbidity, polypharmacy and diabetic characteristics. Nutritional status was defined by Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form. Data was entried by Redcap and analised by Spss 22.0 verson. A total 148 participants with mean of age was 76 ± 7.47 years old, and 62.2% were female. The mean of BMI total score was 22.35 ± 2.42. There were 12.8% patients with malnutrition status and 41.9% with risk of malnutrition. There was a statistically significant association between the nutritional status and factors such as BMI (p < 0.05), physical activity daily living (OR: 3.2; p < 0.05), diabetes knowledge (OR: 3.7; p < 0.05), diabetes complications (OR: 1.12; p < 0.05). The prevalence of malnutrition and risk of malnutrition were respectively high. Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes in older people with decreased physical activity daily living, poor diabetes knowledge and diabetes complication should be screened for nutritional status.

Work motivation and associated factors among health workers in Bac Giang province in 2024: A cross-sectional study

Nguyen Thi Nhan — 2025-05-30

Work motivation is crucial for healthcare workers’ performance and the overall effectiveness of the health systems. A well-motivated healthcare workforce can lead to improved patient satisfaction, reduced errors, and a more sustainable health system. This study aimed to describe the work motivation of healthcare workers in Bac Giang province in 2024 and analyze associated factors. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 253 health workers in Bac Giang province, Viet Yen and Yen Dzung districts using a quantitative approach with structured questionnaire. The main findings revealed that 80.6% of respondents were categorized as having low work motivation, with an average score of 3.66 (SD = 0.37). Significant associations were observed between work motivation and workplace location, years of working in the health field, and night shift frequency. Particularly, workers at the commune level exhibited the highest motivation (55.1%), compared to the district (24.5%) and provincial levels (20.4%). Similarly, workers with more than 10 years of working in the health field were more likely to have high motivation (91.8%) than those with 10 years or less (8.2%). Night shift frequency also highly associated to motivation, with workers taking more than eight shifts per month showing significantly higher odds of motivation (OR = 4.76, 95% CI: 1.22 - 18.65, p = 0.025). These findings highlight the importance of targeted strategies to improve motivation, such as providing tailored incentives, addressing workplace disparities, and offering support to less experienced workers.

Exploring key determinants of health literacy in type 2 diabetes patients: A cross-sectional study

Do Thi Thu Huyen — 2025-05-30

Health literacy (HL) is a critical factor in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), yet many patients lack adequate understanding, leading to poor health outcomes. This study assessed HL among patients with T2DM and identified associated factors. This cross-sectional study involved 358 diabetic outpatients who completed a self-reported questionnaire, including the Health Literacy - Short Form (HL-SF12), Diabetes Self-Management Instruments (DSMI-20), and Multi-Dimensional Support Scale (MDSS). Analysis using SPSS 26.0 revealed an average HL score of 26.3 ± 5.3, with 88.9% of participants demonstrating inadequate HL. Patients under 60 years old, those with higher education, a monthly income over 5 million VND, diabetes duration of less than 5 years, non-alcohol consumers, and effective self-managers showed notably higher HL scores (p < 0.05). Four factors are likely to influence the HL, including “Age” (β = -0.23; 95% CI: -0.27, -0.19; p < 0.001), “Educational level” (β = 3.56; 95% CI: 2.49, 4.64; p < 0.001), “Income” (β = 1.25; 95% CI: 0.54, 1.96; p = 0.001), and “Self-management” (β = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.08, 0.16; p < 0.001. Recommendations include reinforcing health information sources and education programs, to enhance comprehension and self-management skills, contributing to more effective care and education strategies for T2DM patients, particularly elderly patients.

Knowledge of breastfeeding and associated factors in lactating mothers with children below 6 months old in 2023 at E Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam

Nguyen Thi Thu Uyen — 2025-05-30

Breastfeeding is a natural and effective way to protect mothers‘ and children‘s health. This research aims to evaluate knowledge of breastfeeding among mothers with their children under 6 months old visiting the E Hospital, a tertiary hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a predesignated, self-administered questionnaire based on the recommendation from the WHO. A special scaling system was employed to calibrate between different types of questions. Data was collected from the survey from 1/2023 to 10/2023 using the platform REDCap and analyzed using the software SPSS®. Among 150 women voluntarily participating in this research, only 7% have good knowledge of breastfeeding. A majority of participants understood the importance of breastfeeding, the consequences when children are not breastfed properly, how to use thawed breast milk and breastfeeding in special cases. On the other hand, most mothers did not have good knowledge of colostrum and mature milk characteristics, how to maintain and protect breast milk supply, and how to express and store breast milk after expression. The level of breastfeeding knowledge was not significantly associated with maternal age group, ethnicity, or residential area. Moreover, multiparity did not contribute to an improvement in breastfeeding knowledge (p > 0.05), contradicting prevailing beliefs in Vietnam.

Delayed diagnosis of Hyperinsulinism Hyperammonemia Syndrome: A case report

Can Thi Bich Ngoc — 2025-05-30

Hyperinsulinism Hyperammonemia Syndrome (HI/HA syndrome) is an autosomal dominant disease caused by activating mutations in GLUD1, the gene responsible for encoding the mitochondrial enzyme glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH). This syndrome represents the second most common genetic form of congenital hyperinsulinism in infancy. Children with HI/HA syndrome typically experience hypoglycemic symptoms triggered by fasting or high-protein meals and persistently elevated ammonia levels. We report a case of HI/HA syndrome in a 7-month-old female who presented with cyanosis and hyperammonemia, along with an initial normal glucose level at the time of presentation. About one week after the child’s admission to the hospital, we discovered that hypoglycemia was the cause of her irritability. The hypoglycemic episode was found to occur coincidentally with hyperammonemia. The combination of clinical findings, biochemical markers, and genetic sequencing identifying a GLUD1 pathogenic variant facilitated the correct diagnosis of HI/HA syndrome. As demonstrated by this case, the diagnosis of HI/HA syndrome requires a thorough clinical evaluation, comprehensive biochemical analysis, and genetic testing. With the correct diagnosis, a patient with HI/HA syndrome can receive ongoing monitoring and care with the goal of preventing adverse neurologic sequelae.
Hyperinsulinism Hyperammonemia Syndrome (HI/HA syndrome) is an autosomal dominant disease caused by activating mutations in GLUD1, the gene responsible for encoding the mitochondrial enzyme glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH). This syndrome represents the second most common genetic form of congenital hyperinsulinism in infancy. Children with HI/HA syndrome typically experience hypoglycemic symptoms triggered by fasting or high-protein meals and persistently elevated ammonia levels. We report a case of HI/HA syndrome in a 7-month-old female who presented cyanosis and hyperammonemia, along with an initial normal glucose level at the time of presentation. About one week after the child’s admission to the hospital, we discovered that hypoglycemia was the cause of her irritability. The hypoglycemic episode was found to occur coincidentally with hyperammonemia. The combination of clinical findings, biochemical markers, and genetic sequencing identifying a GLUD1 pathogenic variant facilitated the correct diagnosis of HI/HA syndrome. As demonstrated by this case, the diagnosis of HI/HA syndrome requires a thorough clinical evaluation, comprehensive biochemical analysis, and genetic testing. With the correct diagnosis, a patient with HI/HA syndrome can receive ongoing monitoring and care with the goal of preventing adverse neurologic sequelae

Kenny-Caffey Syndrome type 2: Insight from two Vietnamese cases

Can Thi Bich Ngoc — 2025-05-30

We report two unrelated 8-year-old Vietnamese girls diagnosed with Kenny-Caffey Syndrome type 2 (KCS2), each harboring the same heterozygous pathogenic variant in the FAM111A gene (c.1706G>A, p.Arg569His). Case 1 presented initially at age 4 with poor growth and persistent anterior fontanelle. At age 8, she exhibited severe short stature (-4.5 SDS), macrocephaly, small hands, and craniofacial dysmorphisms. Additional findings included persistent fontanelle, hyperopia with amblyopia, cortical thickening of long bones, and asymptomatic hypocalcemia with normal parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. Brain MRI showed a thin pituitary gland. Case 2 presented with short stature (-4.96 SDS), a history of hypocalcemic seizures, and congenital astigmatism. She had normal facial appearance but showed cortical bone thinning, absent pituitary lobes, and hypocalcemia with inappropriately low PTH levels. Despite calcium supplementation, normocalcemia was achieved only after calcitriol therapy. Growth hormone was later initiated with favorable growth response. Both cases underscore the variable expressivity of KCS2 and highlight the diagnostic value of genetic testing in children with unexplained short stature, skeletal anomalies, and calcium disturbances. The study contributed additional data on NKX6-2 variants in Vietnamese patients.

Vaginal leiomyoma: A case report

Tran Ngoc Dung — 2025-05-30

Vaginal leiomyomas are rare, benign mesenchymal tumors. Since Denys de Leyden identified the first case in 1733, there have been only around 300 reported cases. This case of a surgically treated vaginal leiomyoma highlights the importance of considering this rare diagnosis in reproductive-age women. We provide a review of the relevant literature on diagnosis and management.