Tạp chí Y Dược học Cần Thơ

THE RATE AND OUTCOMES OF REDUCING RE-HOSPITALIZATIONS WITH A TREATMENT REGIMEN INCLUDING DAPAGLIFLOZIN IN HEART FAILURE WITH REDUCED EJECTION FRACTION WITHOUT DIABETES PATIENTS

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Heart failure, a cardiovascular disease with a substantial disease burden, often leads to frequent hospitalizations for acute episodes. The readmission rate is estimated to be around 30-50%, resulting in high costs for both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. Additionally, heart failure is associated with a considerable mortality rate, ranging from 48-57%. Objectives: To describe the rate and outcomes of reducing hospital readmissions for heart failure in non-diabetes patients and with heart failure featuring reduced ejection fraction, through the use of Dapagliflozin at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted 44 non-diabetes and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction patients who were examined and treated at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital. Results: The average age of patients was 67.3 ± 13, with male patients representing 65.9%. Shortness of breath was the most common symptom (77.3%). Other frequently observed symptoms included distended neck veins, peripheral edema, and rales in the lungs. The average ejection fraction was 36.65 ± 8.16%. In terms of functional classification, NYHA III represents the highest proportion at 54.5%. The median NT-proBNP concentration was 8757 pg/mL (ranging from a minimum of 604 pg/mL to a maximum of 35.000 pg/mL). The observed improvement rate in NYHA classification after treatment was 13.6%. The rate of rehospitalization for heart failure before treatment was 27.3%, decreasing to 11.4% after treatment (p=0.118 but the analysis suggests that there were no independent risk factors contributing to rehospitalization for heart failure in patients with reduced ejection fraction without diabetes.Conclusions: Dyspnea was the most common symptom in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and nondiabetes. The rate of rehospitalization for heart failure after 12 weeks of Dapagliflozin treatment was lower than before treatment, but this difference was not statistically significant.

NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND SOME RELATED FACTORS IN MEDICAL STUDENTS

Sun, 12 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Today, the global challenge of malnutrition encompasses both undernutrition and overweight, particularly prevalent in low and middle-income nations. Excessive body fat accumulation poses health risks for overweight and obese individuals. Objectives: To assess nutritional status and identify related factors among Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy (CTUMP) medical students. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 137 first-year medical students at CTUMP to evaluate their body fat percentage using the Harpenden Skinfold Caliper. Skinfold measurements were taken from the bicipital, tricipital, subscapular, and suprailiac sites. Furthermore, physical activity levels were classified using the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) consisting of 16 questions on 4 domains. The research was carried out at CTUMP from December 2022 to June 2023. Results: Compared to urban areas, a higher percentage of male students engage in physical activity in rural areas; however, this trend is not observed among female students. Additionally, female students exhibited thicker skin folds in four areas (biceps, triceps, suprailiac, and subscapular) compared to male students. Conversely, the fold thickness in the suprailiac region was greater in female students. The mean body fat percentage was 20.40±4.61% in male students and 30.48±4.32% in female students. Non-obese students comprised the majority in this study, with 84.3% of male students being non-obese. Among female students, 53.7% were classified as obese and 46.3% as non-obese. There was insufficient evidence to indicate differences between residential student groups and physical activity levels. Conclusions: The study reveals that the majority of participating students are non-obese. Furthermore, the average body fat percentage among women is found to be higher compared to both men and the general population. However, there is inadequate evidence to show variances among student groups residing in diverse areas or partaking in varying levels of physical activity.

SURVEY OF ELEVATED BLOOD PRESSURE IN CHILDREN

Tue, 07 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Hypertension is one of the leading risk factors for death, one of the main risks of cardiovascular disease. Clinical characteristics of hypertension are diverse, the early detection of symptoms of hypertension contributes significantly to early diagnosis and treatment. In Can Tho, there is little research on hypertension in children. Objectives: Describe the clinical and subclinical characteristics of hypertensive children being treated at the Cardiology Department, Can Tho Children’s Hospital. Materials and methods: Analytical descriptive cross-sectional study on 96 pediatric patients diagnosed with hypertension at Can Tho Pediatrics Hospital. Research subjects: Pediatric patients (<16 years old) being treated at the department who are expected to have hypertension over a period of time. Sample selection criteria: Pediatric patients are expected to have hypertension determined according to the standards of the new Guidelines in Clinical Practice of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 2017. Exclusion criteria: Family members do not agree to allow the patient to participate in the study. Children are not appropriate for measuring BP due tocongenital anomalies: Ventricular septal defect, Atrial septal defect, Patent ductus arteriosus, Tetralogy of Fallot. Results: The common age group is under 13 years old (60.4%). The male and female gender ratio is approximately 2.1/1. The stage 2 hypertension classification is the most common (49.8%). The rate of neurological, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular symptoms was 59.4%, respectively; 19.8%; 24%. And there is no association between gastrointestinal, cardiovascular clinical symptoms and the grade of hypertension (p>0.05). Hyperlipidemia, HbA1C in children with hypertension accounted for a high rate of 47.1% and 50%. While in BUN disorder, proteinuria accounted for a low rate of 5.3% and 26.3%. No abnormalities were noted on renal Doppler ultrasound. The rate of abnormal results on echocardiography, chest X-ray and ECG was 53.3%; 23.3%;13.7% respectively.

M-CHAT-R: UTILIZING FOR SCREENING AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Tue, 14 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a multifaceted condition marked by challenges in communication and social interactions, behavioral restrictions, and repetitive actions. Identifying children who may be at risk of ASD early on is crucial for prompt consultation, monitoring, and intervention. Objectives: Determine the rate of Autism Spectrum Disorder in children between the ages of 18 and 36 months by utilizing the M-CHAT-R scale at the clinic of Can Tho Children's Hospital. And identify the associated risk factors for that rate of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on 608 children aged 18-36 months who were examined at the clinic of Can Tho Children's Hospital. Results: The majority of children in the study, comprising 88.3%, fell within the age range of 24-36 months, with proportions of boys and girls at 57.6% and 42.4%, respectively. Among the children, 94.7% (576/608 children) were classified as low risk, while medium risk and high risk accounted for 4.28% (26/608 children) and 1.02% (6/608 children), respectively. Questions with notably high positive rates among at-risk children were item 2 (38.9%), item 5 (15.2%), item 12 (16.2%), item 11 (4.8%). Conversely, the least common symptom was indicated in question 9, where children showed a preference for moving activities, accounting for only 2.7%. Associations were observed between the risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder and factors such as gender (p=0.04), father’age (p=0.024), alcohol consumption (p=0.047), birth asphyxia (p=0.036), seizures due to high fever/unknown cause (p=0.035). Conclusion: In the study, the rate of positive M-CHAT-R was 5.3% (32 out of 608 children), predominantly observed in the low-risk group, accounting for 94.7%. The majority of positive cases fell within the 24-36 month age group, comprising 26 out of the 32 children. The risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder showed correlations with gender, father’s age older or equal to 35 years old, alcohol consumption, birth asphyxia and seizures triggered by high fever or unknown causes. However, there was no observed relationship between the risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder and age group factors.

RELATED FACTORS TO RECURRENCE OF FEBRILE SEIZURES IN CHILDREN AT CAN THO CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL 2022 – 2023

Fri, 10 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Febrile convulsions are a fairly common emergency in children, accounting for up to 2/3 of children with symptomatic convulsions in diseases with identified causes. Febrile seizures are a medical emergency in pediatrics. Seizure recurrence can affect the child in many ways, including the risk of injury, respiratory failure during a seizure, or increased risk of epilepsy. The recurrence of febrile seizures is directly related to prognosis and prevention in children. Objectives: 1) Describe the clinical characteristics of febrile seizures in children from 6 months to 60 months at Can Tho Children's Hospital. 2) Risk factors for recurrent febrile seizures in children from 6 months to 60 months at Can Tho Children's Hospital. Materials and methods: Crosssectional descriptive study with analysis of 125 children with febrile seizures. Results: Out of the total of 125 cases, the male/female ratio was 1.55/1, the age group with a higher percentage was 6 - 24 months old (51.2 %), 60% of children with febrile seizures were recorded with fever ≥ 390C, most cases were generalized seizures accounting for 98.4%. Regarding consciousness after a seizure, 1 case was recorded, corresponding to 0.8% of children with consciousness disorder after a seizure. The recurrence of febrile seizures was statistically significantly related to the type of febrile seizure (p < 0.001), the time from fever to the onset of the first seizure (p < 0.05), and morphology of seizures (p < 0.05). There is no relationship between recurrence of febrile seizures and age group, gender, temperature during seizures, as well as the child's history of surgery. assisted cesarean section/birth premature birth. Conclusions: Recurrence of febrile seizures is associated with a number of clinical features such as the classification of febrile seizures, the interval between fever and the first seizure, and the morphology of seizures.

AN EVALUATION OF HYPOALBUMINEMIA AND IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN CHILDREN AGED FROM 2 MONTHS TO UNDER 5 YEARS OLD WITH PNEUMONIA

Fri, 10 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Pneumonia is a potentially fatal disease that greatly compromises the health of children. Utilizing laboratory tests is extremely beneficial in the diagnosis, monitoring, and prognosis determination of the condition. In the realm of pediatric pneumonia, effective diagnostic procedures include assessments for albumin levels and iron deficiency anemia. Objectives: (1) Determine the proportions of hypoalbuminemia and iron deficiency anemia in children aged from 2 months to under 5 years old with pneumonia at Ca Mau Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital in 2022-2023 (2) Evaluate the association between hypoalbuminemia, iron deficiency anemia and pneumonia in children aged from 2 months to under 5 years old at Ca Mau Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital in 2022-2023. Materials and methods: a cross-sectional descriptive study on 177 pediatric patients from 2 months to under 5 years old who were diagnosed with pneumonia and received inpatient treatment at Ca Mau Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital during the research period. Results: The percentage of patients aged 2 months to 2 years was 59.9%, which was more than the percentage of patients aged 2 years to 5 years, which was 40.1%. The average age was 22.5±15.82 months old. The male patients constituted 56.5% of the total, whilst the female patients with pneumonia accounted for 43.5%. Children with pneumonia made up 88.1% of the patient population; children with severe pneumonia made up 11.9% of the patient population. The average albumin concentration was 38.47±2.39g/L. The proportion of hypoalbuminemia was 26% and the proportion of iron deficiency anemia was 41.8%. Children with iron deficiency anemia had a higher rate of severe pneumonia (20.3%) than those without (5.8%). Compared to 2.9% of children without iron deficiency anemia, 12.2% of those with the condition required more than two antibiotics to treat pneumonia. Conclusion: When hypoalbuminemia is present, the severity of pneumonia is significantly increased. Inadequate iron levels cause anemia, which worsens pediatric pneumonia and necessitates supplementary antibiotic therapy.

RELATED FACTORS TO THE SEVERITY OF HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE IN CHILDREN TREATED AT CAN THO CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL 2022-2023

Tue, 14 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is an acute infectious disease caused by an intestinal virus with typical clinical manifestations: bullous rash on the hands, feet, buttocks, or mouth ulcers. The disease can spread very quickly from one child to another through two fecaloral and respiratory routes. Hand, foot, and mouth disease is one of the most common acute infectious diseases in Vietnam. Most cases of the disease are mild. However, the disease can become severe and cause dangerous complications leading to death if not detected early and treated promptly. Objectives: 1) To describe the clinical and paraclinical characteristics of hand, foot, and mouth disease in children treated at the Infection Department of Can Tho Children's Hospital. 2) To analyze factors related to the severity of hand, foot, and mouth disease in children treated at the Infection Department of Can Tho Children's Hospital. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study with analysis. Results: General characteristics for men (60.5%), age group 12-24 months 43.5%, the reason for hospitalization is fever (95.5%), mouth ulcers (66.5%), rash, acne water (39%). The severity of hand, foot, and mouth disease is statistically significantly related to white blood cell count >=16x1G/l (p=0.0001) and platelet count >=400x109/l (p=0.0001). There is no relationship between hand, foot, and mouth severity with gender characteristics (p=0.980), age group (p=0.259), diet in the first 6 months (p=0.566), and education level (p=0.293), place of residence (p=0.948), number of days of onset before admission (p=0.171) and initial management (p=0.701). Conclusion: Factors such as white blood cell count (p = 0.001) and platelet count (p = 0.001) were statistically significant in the severity of hand, foot, and mouth disease (p < 0.05). There is no relationship between age group, gender, diet, education level, number of days of onset, and initial treatment with the severity of HFMD.

RESULTS OF GLYCEMIC CONTROL AMONG SEVERE STROKE PATIENTS

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Hyperglycemia is a relatively common condition in stroke patients, whether they have diabetes or not, and it is associated with adverse outcomes. Achieving target blood glucose levels has a partial impact on the results, but it is not the sole determinant. Objectives: We assessed the result of glycemic control among severe stroke patients. Materials and methods: A prospective study was conducted in the Stroke Department, Can Tho Central General Hospital, from June 2020 to April 2022, with 72 severe stroke patients monitored the capillary blood glucose every 3 hours. Nineteen patients who had persistent hyperglycemia were controlled with continuous intravenous insulin. We determined the average blood glucose level for each patient, the time needed to reach the glycemic target range, the frequency of hypoglycemia, and the glycemic variability from all measured blood glucose concentration. R programming was used to analyze the data. Results: The average age of patients was 65.1±16.1. The percentage of ischemic stroke, accounting for 55.6%, was the highest, followed by cerebral hemorrhage at 34.7%, 1.4% of these patients was attributed to cerebral venous thrombosis. In admission, the median Glasgow score was 8 (IQR: 7-9), and the median modified Rankin score was 5 (IQR: 4-5). Enteral nutrition was the primary nutritional therapy. Among 53 severe strokes without persistent hyperglycemia, blood glucose levels fluctuated around the mean value of 143 mg/dL. In 19 patients with persistently elevated blood glucose concentration, the mean blood glucose levels preinfusion and post-insulin infusion were 299±117mg/dL and 165±43.2mg/dL, respectively; time to glycemic target was 8.25 hours (95% CI: 3.50-14.75 hours), the minimum was 3 hours, and the longest was 189 hours; 5.3% of these patients developed hypoglycemia, and 13.3% of persistent hyperglycemia patients did not obtain the target range. Conclusions: Blood glucose levels fluctuate within the target range among patients with nonhyperglycemia or non-persistent hyperglycemia. In patients with persistent hyperglycemia controlled with intravenous insulin, the mean blood glucose levels were achieved close to the upper limit of the glycemic target.

INITIATION OF PROCESS STANDARDIZATION TO FABRICATE DEMINERALIZED BONE DIRECTED TOWARDS MAKING MATERIALS FOR BONE GRAFTING

Le Chi Linh, Huynh Duy Thao, Nguyen Van Doi, Trinh Ngoc Khoa, Ha Thi Thao Mai — Fri, 10 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Bone tissue, a vital component for self-healing. This inherent regenerative capacity enables bones to repair themselves following injury or damage. Understanding the mechanisms behind bone tissue self-healing is of great significance in the field of medical research and has implications for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. In this article, we explore the fundamental characteristics and mechanisms underlying the self-healing properties of bone tissue. In certain instances of trauma or pathological conditions resulting in bone defects, the natural healing process may be insufficient. Consequently, the implementation of bone transplant interventions becomes imperative for successful bone regeneration. The predominant origins of bone grafts encompass autologous, homologous, and heterologous sources. The allograft, a widely utilized bone grafting technique, has gained significant popularity, and is currently in high demand within the medical field. The current state of allograft utilization in our nation has proven insufficient in meeting the demands of patients. Henceforth, a method has been devised and standardized for the procurement of demineralized osseous tissue, a crucial investigation in light of the insufficiency of allografts in meeting the requirements of patients. Objectives: Initially, standardizing an efficient procedure to obtain demineralized bone sources from human skull fragments from three different inclusion methods. Materials and Methods: Using three different types of solutions to obtain demineralized bone from human skull tissue including solutions of Formic Acid (10%), Hydrochloric Acid (5%), a mixture of solution: Formic Acid (10%) - Acid Hydrochloric (5%) (ratio 1:1,v/v). Demineralized bones were evaluated by comparing the mineral content extracted from bone samples, demineralization time, and analysis of ions concentration in bone samples (including Ca and P) before and after demineralization. Besides, demineralized bones were histologically stained before and after demineralization to assess the bone structure. Results: The Ca and P extraction rates of this method are high and standard, about 98% and 93%, respectively. The demineralization process only takes about five days. Relative bone tissue retains most of the structure of compact bone tissue. Conclusion: The procedure that our team has established is the right one for obtaining demineralized bone as bone replacement material and applies to a wide variety of human bone tissue.

SATISFACTION OF INPATIENTS ABOUT HEALTH EDUCATION AT CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY HOSPITAL

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Health education for patients is one of the essential tasks of physicians in patient care and treatment. To improve the effectiveness of health care and treatment, physicians must spend more time with patients. The interaction of physicians in performing health education for patients must be really enthusiastic, dynamic and responsive to the needs of each patient. Objectives: This study aims to describe the satisfaction of inpatients about the health education communication activities of physicians in clinical departments of university hospitals at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital in June and July - 2023. Materials and methods: A convenience sample of 210 inpatients in 07 clinical departments at the time of discharge from the hospital was surveyed in this descriptive, cross – sectional study. Prepared questionnaires for faceto-face interviews with 37 questions (built by referencing documents related to health education communication for patients, and at the same time proposing some new elements for further study). Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data. Results: The majority of the patients were female, accounting for 57.14 %, the average age was 52.01 ± 2.3. Patients had a positive attitude toward thehealth educati on communication methods of physicians, with a score of 69.59 ± 15.73. Most patients received health education in the form of individual consultations, accounting for 95.71 %. The percentage of doctors providing health education consultation to patients was 59.62 %. Patients had a positive attitude toward the health education communication methods of physicians (69.59 ± 15.73), the mean score of patients' evaluation of health education communication activities was 28.89 ± 4.66 and the content of medical education communication was 32.17 ± 10.18. Conclusion: This study shows that patients have positive attitudes toward health education at clinical departments, but patients mainly expect doctors to be the ones to provide information and conduct health education for them. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a health education program for patients that pays attention to the central role of doctors.

CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS WITH GENITAL WARTS

Lac Thi Kim Ngan, Hoang Thi Van Anh, Pham Thi Bao Tram, Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang — Sun, 12 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Genital warts are a disease with the highest proportion of sexually transmitted diseases, which are caused by Human Papillomaviruses. Currently, research on the impact on the quality of life of patients with genital warts in Vietnam is still very limited, while this is an issue that deserves attention and has been studied in many places around the world. Objectives: To describe the clinical characteristics and evaluate the quality of life of patients with genital warts at Can Tho Dermato-Venereology Hospital in 2023. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at Can Tho City Hospital of Dermato-Venereology, including 111 patients who were diagnosed with genital warts and treated. The generic questionnaire European quality of life index version 5D (EQ-5D), and EQ visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) have been used to assess the quality of life of patients with genital warts. The period of study is from May 2023 to October 2023. Results: Patients in the 14-35 age group accounted for the highest proportion (81.1%), and the over 60-year-old group accounted for the lowest proportion (2.7%). The majority of patients participating in the study were female (61.3%). Types of lesions included sharp papules (78.4%), papular papules (12.6%), keratinized papules (6.3%), and flat papules (2.7%). The mild and moderate disease severity were dominant (79.28%). Genital warts usually do not affect mobility, self-care, or usual activities; however, this disease causes pain or discomfort (59.46%), and anxiety or depression (62.16%). The average general health score according to the EQ-VAS, was 74.6 ± 9.031. There was a relationship between EQ-VAS and disease severity (p<0.002). The more severe the disease was, the lower the average EQ-VAS score was. Conclusion: Genital warts had a negative impact on many aspects of the patient's quality of life, including anxiety or depression, varying from moderate to severe levels. Therefore, in addition to consulting and raising awareness, paying attention to monitoring the problems above is extremely important in treatment.

KNOWLEDGE OF HPV VACCINES AND CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING AMONG FULL-TIME SECOND-YEAR MEDICAL STUDENTS IN CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY

Nguyen Quoc Tuan, Le Ngoc Lan Anh, Tran Trong Nhan, Phan Thi Van — Sat, 04 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death among women worldwide, with over 500,000 new cases diagnosed annually and 50% mortality rate in Asia. All women are at risk for cervical cancer, most often from 42 to 58 years old. However, we can prevent it by screening tests and the HPV vaccines (HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer). When cervical cancer is found early, it is highly treatable (about 90-100%). As one of the directly involved people in the prevention and treatment of this disease in the future, a medical student needs to grasp the basic knowledge to properly advise patients about the benefits of HPV vaccination as well as perform cervical cancer screening tests according to different ages. Therefore, the topic "The knowledge of HPV vaccines and cervical cancer screening among full-time second-year medical students of Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy" was conducted to determine the acquainted rate of HPV vaccines and cervical screening. Objectives: to determinine the ratio of knowledge among students on HPV vaccines and cervical cancer screening. Materials and methods: The study used a cross-sectional descriptive design to assess full-time medical secondyear students’ knowledge. A pre-test questionnaire was administered to students. Research conducted from January 12th, 2022 to July 1st, 2022 including 234 students. Results: Participants were mainly students under the age of 20, accounting for 56%. Most students received information about HPV vaccination from the internet, accounting for 72.2%; from friends and relatives accounting for 66.7%, from hospitals and medical centers accounting for 31.5%. Research results show that the rate of well-informed about HPV vaccination was 67.9%; the rate of well-informed about cervical cancer screening was 8.2%. The rate of knowing the total injection dose is 3 doses accounting for 55.6%. Most students (90.2%) answered that cervical cancer can be screened; about 35.9% of students answered the age to start cervical cancer screening correctly. The percentage of students who knew the conditions to stop cervical cancer screening was 20.9%. Conclusion: The knowledge of HPV vaccines and cervical cancer screening among full-time second-year medical students of Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy was thoroughly knowledgeable.

RESEARCH ON CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND TREATMENT RESULTS OF DERMATOPHYTOSIS PATIENTS WITH THE COMBINATION OF TOPICAL TERBINAFINE AND ORAL ITRACONAZOLE

Lac Thi Kim Ngan, Nguyen Hai Dang, Pham Thanh Thao, Tran Gia Hung — Sun, 12 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Currently, many patients with dermatophytosis are treated with a variety of antifungal drugs but they are ineffective and relapses are common. Many antifungal drugs have been used but fails to treat the disease, which can globally become an issue in medical practice. The combination of antifungal drugs for the treatment of dermatophytosis, including oral itraconazole and topical terbinafine, has been shown to be more effective than monotherapy. However there has not been much research on the effectiveness of this combination treating dermatophytosis in Vietnam. Objectives: To describe the clinical characteristics and evaluate the results of patients with dermatophytosis treated with the combination of oral itraconazole and topical terbinafine at Can Tho Hospital of Dermato-Venereology in 2023. Materials and methods: a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 53 patients who were diagnosed with dermatophytosis at Can Tho Hospital of Dermato-Venereology from May to November 2023. Results: the age group of 16 – 30 years old (47.2%) and male gender (67.9%) were the most common. The dominant clinical characteristics were pruritus (96.2%), erythema (100%), scaling (90.6%), central skin atrophy (88.7%), tinea corporis (90.6%), tinea cruris (28.3%), polycyclic pattern (79.2%) and round pattern (71.7%). The severity scores of the three symptoms and signs (pruritus, erythema and scaling) at the second week and fourth week were significantly decreased, compared with their baseline values (p<0.001). The cure rate of the patients after the second and fourth weeks of treatment were 28.3% and 90.6% respectively. Conclusion: pruritus, erythema, scaling, central skin atrophy, tinea corporis, tinea cruris, polycyclic pattern and round pattern were the most common clinical characteristics in dermatophytosis. With the treatment that combined of topical terbinafine and oral itraconazole, symptoms of the disease were significantly reduced

RESEARCH ON THE FORMULATION OF NANOPARTICLES CONTAINING MANGIFERIN USING SELF-ASSEMBLY METHOD

Huynh Thi My Duyen, Do Hoang Quyen, Pham Dinh Duy — Mon, 20 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The use of natural-origin active compounds in disease treatment is currently a prevailing trend. Mangiferin, a major component found in mangoes, is present in relatively high proportions. However, mangiferin's disadvantages include low solubility and poor permeability. There are numerous methods available to improve solubility and permeability, among which selfassembly is noteworthy. Self-assembly involves the combination of certain molecules or macromolecules to form three-dimensional networks or other structures with new characteristics, phospholipids and chitosan are often used as raw materials for the self-assembly process to create nanoparticles. This method offers advantages such as high efficiency, simple implementation, short execution time, high retention efficiency, and increased permeability through biological membranes. Objectives: To develop a formulation and process for producing nano mangiferin using the selfassembly method with phosphatidylcholine and chitosan. Materials and methods: The solubility of mangiferin in high-proof ethanol was investigated, followed by an assessment of the influence of formulation factors and processes on the characteristics of nano-sized mangiferin particles. Results: The average solubility of mangiferin in 96% ethanol was approximately 0.5529±0.0003 mg/mL. The mole ratio of mangiferin to Lipoid S100 was 1:1, and the mass ratio of Lipoid S100 to chitosan was 20:1. A stirring speed of 1.000 revolutions per minute, reflux temperature of 70°C, reflux time of 2 hours. homogenization speed of 1,000 revolutions per minute, and homogenization time of 15 minutes produced the smallest nanoparticles (103.44±0.46 nm), with a low polydispersity index (0.281±0.009≤ 0.3) and zeta potential (31.95±0.08 mV ≥ +30 mV), encapsulation efficiency of 82.42±0.53%; loading capacity of 32.97±0.95%. Conclusions: A successful formulation of nanosized mangiferin particles was achieved using the self-assembly method, resulting in particles that meet the criteria of small size, uniformity, and durability. Moreover, nearly 100% mangiferin release was achieved after 60 minutes, indicating the promising potential for developing highly bioavailable oral formulations.

MORPHOLOGY AND MICROANATOMY DESCRIPTION OF BỒNG NGA TRUẬT, OR FINGERROOT, (Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf) COLLECTED IN KIEN GIANG PROVINCE

Nguyen Thi Hoai Trang, Truong Nhu Y, Huynh Ngoc Trung Dung, Nguyen Phu Loc — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Bồng Nga truật, or Fingerroot, (Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf syn. Boesenbergia pandurata (Roxb.) Schltr.), also known as Ngải bún, is a common ginger species in Mekong Delta. Its tuber roots and rhizomes are often used to cook rice noodles as an alternative to Tumeric (Curcuma longa L.). Despite being used commonly in Indonesia and Thailand, the plant has not been used and researched as a herb in Vietnam. This research was for starting projects to increase the value of this species. Objectives: This study was to primarily describe morphological and microanatomical figures of Bồng Nga truật, together with characteristic figures in rhizome and tuber root powder. Materials and methods: The whole plant of Fingerroot, including rhizomes and tuber roots, was collected in Giong Rieng, Kien Giang. A portion of rhizomes and tuber roots was then cleansed and basked to dry in December 2019. Fresh samples were used for the microanatomy study, dried sample was pulverized for the powder study. All of the observations were done following general instructions in Vietnam Pharmacopoeia V. Results: The study described botanical figures of Bồng Nga truật sample in Giong Rieng, Kien Giang, including morphology, microanatomy of whole plant and characteristic particles in Bồng Nga truật rhizome and tuber root powders. The plant had common figures of Zingiberaceae and looked similar to Tumeric except for leaf sheath bases, flowers, and particular palmated tuber shapes. Microanatomy of leaf veins and leaf blades was characterized by large sub-rectangle secretory vesicles, V-shaped vascular bundles reinforced by hardened tissues on both sides. Rhizome and tuber root microanatomy were not specific. However, tubers of Fingerroot were more likely tuber root than colonial rhizome as referred. Similarly, particles found in powder samples were common among Zingiberaceae species. Conclusions: The sample has common morphological figures compared with one in Malaysia, and common figures of Zingiberaceae.

DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF A HPLC/PDA METHOD FOR SIMULTANEOUS QUANTIFICATION OF AMLODIPINE BESYLATE AND VALSARTAN IN DISSOLUTION MEDIA

Sun, 12 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Valsartan, an angiotensin blocker, is often combined with amlodipine (a calcium channel antagonist) in the current treatment of hypertension. There is a generic brand-name drug Exforge® which has been proven to be clinically effective. However, its price is high, making it quite difficult to access, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Therefore, research and development of generic drugs is essential. In addition, research on simultaneous quantification of amlodipine and valsartan in the dissolution medium must be performed to serve as a basis for comparing in vitro equivalence between the two finished products. Objectives: Investigation of the mobile phase for separating amlodipine and valsartan using the isocratic elution method and validation of the simultaneous quantification of amlodipine and valsartan in three different dissolution media with pH of 1.2, 4.5, and 6.8. Materials and methods: Experimental methods on finished tablets containing amlodipine and valsartan. Results: A procedure for simultaneous quantification of amlodipine and valsartan has been developed and validated in three dissolution media using the HPLC method with DAD detector, ZORBAX Eclipse Plus C18 reversed-phase column (4.6 x 250 mm; 5m), isocratic elution method, detection wavelength of 237 nm, flow rate of 1 mL/min, an injection volume of 20 µL, and mobile phase composed of acetonitrile-triethylamine 0.7% (adjusted to pH 3.0 with 0.05% of phosphoric acid) with a ratio of 40:60. The quantitative method achieves linearity with a correlation coefficient R2>0.999 and the linearity for amlodipine and valsartan was determined in the range at pH of 1.2 (0.25-10 µg/mL and 2-160 µg/mL), at pH of 4.5 and 6.8 (0.5-10 µg/mL and 8-160 µg/mL). The values of amlodipine and valsartan content in the test sample on the same day and between two different days were less than 2.0%. The recovery rate ranged from 98% to 102% with the relative standard deviation (RSD) not exceeding 2.0%. Conclusions: The HPLC method with the above chromatographic conditions can be applied for simultaneous quantification of amlodipine and valsartan in three dissolution media with various pH.

EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE AND FACTORS RELATED TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP OF YOUNG PHARMACISTS IN THE MEKONG DELTA IN 2023

Mon, 06 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The term “Entrepreneurship” refers to innovative, high-risk, and rapidly expanding business ventures that frequently need a substantial cash source. Most of the initial funding comes from individual savings or family’s financial support. The process of becoming an entrepreneur starts with identifying an opportunity and ends with creating a plan to take advantage of it. However, it has never been straightforward or simple to start a firm, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector. In order to initiate and maintain a profitable business, pharmacists must train themselves with business startup expertise. Objectives: To evaluate the knowledge and factors affecting the entrepreneurship of young pharmacists in the Mekong Delta from May 2023 to November 2023. Material and methods: To ascertain the viewpoints of 815 young pharmacists aged from 20 to under 40, this study used a cross-sectional descriptive design and conducted interviews with them, basing on the features of the research item, obtaining knowledge about entrepreneurship and identify some relevant elements. Results: Women made up 69.1% of the young pharmacist workforce, including the majority of college pharmacists (46.5%), university pharmacists (43.1%), and those with master or doctoral degrees (10.4%). 80% were familiar with entrepreneurship, and 90.1% believed that, in order to launch a successful business, entrepreneurs had to have a thorough understanding of the industry in which they planned to operate. 77.8% had high knowledge scores. Regard the total of knowledge scores by characteristics groups, it has been clearly seen in the study that the gender, economic, and educational variables had an impact on general knowledge (p<0.05); in which the college pharmacist category (429.76), along with the rich and the well-off (429.76) had the highest average rankings among the characteristic categories. Conclusions: The majority of young pharmacists in the Mekong Delta were aware of and fairly knowledgeable about entrepreneurship.

SALIVARY CHARACTERISTICS AMONG 12-YEAR-OLD CHILDREN WITH SIGNIFICANT CARIES INDEX FROM URBAN AND SUBURBAN SCHOOLS IN CAN THO CITY

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Dental caries is the most prevalent chronic childhood disease with numerous predisposing factors. Salivary properties have been linked to progressive dental caries in previous studies. However, the role of these contributing factors in the management of dental caries in children remains insufficient. Thus, the investigation of salivary characteristics from different types of communities within a specific pediatric population is an obvious demand. Objectives: To assess the salivary characteristics among school-going children aged 12 years from two urban and suburban schools in Can Tho city. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 62 twelve-year-old students with significant caries index in two locations with different socioeconomic status in Can Tho city. Those participants underwent saliva testing by using a saliva testing kit (Saiva-Check BUFFER) to evaluate stimulated and unstimulated saliva parameters including consistency, flow rate, pH and buffering capacity. Results: Out of the total population, males and females made up 40.3% and 59.7%, respectively. Both boys and girls had similarities in all salivary parameters (p > 0.05). Nearly half of suburban students (48.4%) had resting frothy bubbly saliva while more than half of urban students (58.1%) had watery clear saliva at rest. All students had moderate and normal acidic saliva before and after stimulation regardless of living areas. The discrepancy in resting salivary viscosity, resting salivary pH was statistically significant based on region (p < 0.05). 64.5% of the students in both suburban and urban enclaves had a normal stimulated saliva flow rate. In contrast, a normal or high buffering capacity of stimulated saliva was only seen in a few students. Regarding the flow rate, pH, and buffering capacity of stimulated saliva, there were no differences between urban and suburban areas (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The findings of this study provide additional proof of the significance of salivary properties in assessing dental caries, especially in socioeconomic deprivation areas. Furthermore, it also implies that salivary parameters should be taken into account as a potential indicator for managing high caries-risk children.

EVIDENCE – BASED PRACTICE: ATTITUDES AND KNOWLEDGE AMONG UNDERGRADUATE NURSING AND MIDWIFERY STUDENTS AT CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY IN 2023 AND RELATED FACTORS

Mai Nguyen Thanh Truc, Ngo Thi Dung, Pham Le An, Nguyen Hong Thiep — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is imperative for ensuring patient safety and enhancing the quality of education. In 2022, EBP was considered one of the compulsory standards for nursing and midwifery in Vietnam. The recognition of the attitude and knowledge in EBP is an essential step before applying evidence in clinical practice and teaching. Objectives: This study aimed to (1) describe the attitude and knowledge in EBP, and (2) identify the related factors which are associated with EBP attitude and knowledge. Materials and methods: A convenience sample with the cross – sectional descriptive design was conducted on 178 nursing and midwifery students (2nd - 4rd academic year) at the Faculty of Nursing and Medical Technology, Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy from September to October - 2023. The subscale from the Evidence-based Practice Competence Questionnaire consisted of attitude and knowledge, developed by RuzafaMartinez in 2013 was used for this study. The Evidence-Based Competency Questionnaire is one of the most valid tools used in various studies by Ruzafa-Martinez. All questions were translated and reliability was measured. The reliability of the subscale (knowledge and attitude) was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha and internal consistency accounted for 0.88 and consisting of 8 and 9 questions, respectively. Results: Most of the nursing and midwifery students had a high attitude and knowledge in EBP. Genders, academic year, majors were identified as significant related factors for knowledge about applying evidence. Conclusions: Nursing and midwifery students at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy had a high level of skills and knowledge in EBP. Training institutions need to organize many classes and activities for EBP, and innovate teaching methods to train human resources to meet professional standards.

HEALTHCARE STUDENTS' READINESS OF INTERPROFESSIONAL LEARNING IN CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Nguyen Thi Kim Tuong, Nguyen Thanh Liem, Pham Thi Be Kieu, Nguyen Van Tuan — Thu, 09 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The World Health Organization emphasizes the significance of interprofessional collaboration and education. Being aware of the value of collaboration among professionals within the healthcare team, the university in Vietnam has tended to prepare students for teamwork through interprofessional education. However, the success of interprofessional education is contingent upon the students' attitudes. Objectives: To identify students' attitudes at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy toward interprofessional learning and explore factors affecting their readiness for the program. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study on 301 Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy students in ten majors, responding to an online survey from May to July of 2023 using the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale. Besides, we collected demographic information including age, gender, ethnicity, major, academic years, and info learned/experienced in the interprofessional education of students. Multivariate regression was used to explore factors affecting students' readiness for interprofessional learning. Results: Students replied to the questionnaire. All of them had no experience in interprofessional education (100%); almost all participants were Kinh ethnicity (91.7%), and female (72.8%). The average age was 19.9 ± 0.7 years old. Students studying in the 2nd year were 65.8%. Nursing students account for the highest proportion (21.3%). The total score on the 19item Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale rated by 301 students was 72.2 ± 8.2. The Positive professional identity subscale scored 4.1 ± 0.6 while the Teamwork and collaboration subscale scored 4.2 ± 0.5. The subscales measuring Negative professional identity and Roles and responsibilities had mean scores of 2.7 ± 1.1 and 3.4 ± 0.8, respectively. The study found an association between the subscale's score and the profession and ethnicity of students. Conclusion: Most students are ready for interprofessional learning, educators need to study how to build and introduce interprofessional education for them.

KNOWLEDGE TOWARDS HPV INFECTION AND RELATED FACTORS AMONG MALE STUDENTS AT THE FACULTY OF NURSING, CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY IN 2023

Wed, 15 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) has been recognized as a major and common sexually transmitted infection associated with various types of cancer in both men and women. More than 200 genotypes of HPVs were identified, each exhibiting distinct specificity for tissues and infection. In addition, the rate of HPV infection has gradually increased in both males and females. According to research conducted in Vietnam and around the world, men diagnosed with HPV infection may experience various complications, including those affecting the coronal sulcus, semen, as well as the scrotal, perianal, and anal regions. However, there is still limited research on HPV knowledge, especially among male students. In particular, there have been few studies conducted among male healthcare students in Vietnam. Objectives: To evaluate the knowledge of HP and to identify relevant factors influencing HPV knowledge among male students at the Faculty of Nursing and Medical Technology, Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 174 male students of the Faculty of Nursing and Medical Technology from July to September 2023 using convenience sampling methods. A self-administered anonymous questionnaire established by Susan Mary Sherman in English n and Tran Luong Xuan Phuoc in Vietnamese was used in this study to investigate the demographic information, and knowledge toward HPV. Results: Overall, 174 surveys were completed, representing a response rate of 94.57%. Among male students, 68.39% demonstrated a "good knowledge" of HPV. Academic year was identified as the main factor influencing HPV knowledge, with a significantly higher proportion of fourth-year male students exhibiting greater knowledge compared to other academic levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: While the majority of male students demonstrated a high level of knowledge about HPV, there is still a need for strengthening health education and policies related to HPV knowledge.

COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARD PRECAUTIONS AMONG PEDIATRIC NURSES IN SELECTED GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Wed, 08 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are complex conditions that appear in any healthcare facility. They truly become an economic and financial burden for the family and healthcare service system, particularly in developing countries. Nurses directly provide care for patients because they can be the cause of the spread of HAIs in healthcare institutions. Thus, nurses’ compliance with standard precautions plays a critical role in HAIs prevention efforts, especially in caring for children. Objectives: to examine compliance with standard precautions among pediatric nurses and related factors. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive correlational design was used. Sample size comprised of 285 pediatric nurses at selected government hospitals who have at least 6 months of experience as a nursing professional. Nurse’s adherence to standard precautions in caring was examined by using a 4-likert questionnaire including 20 items divided into 4 subscales as use of protective devices, disposal of sharps and waste, decontamination of spills and used articles, and prevention of cross-infection. Results: The age mean of nursing participants was 31.2 years. The overall compliance score was 3.16 (SD = 0.47) with 83.2% of nurses having good compliance with standard precautions. Among subscales of compliance, nurses’ practices with decontamination of spills and used articles had the highest scores. In contrast, the use of protective devices was the lowest. Besides, the study results showed a statistically significant relationship between nurses’ attitudes regarding HAIs prevention and their compliance with standard precautions (p<0.001). Meanwhile, there was no association between gender, level of education, experience in the year and standard precautions compliance. Conclusions: infection control practices with standard precautions among pediatric nurses were good. However, there were some aspects that should be improved. More related continuous training programs for nurses should be developed. Additionally, hospital administration and nurse managers should establish a system to regularly monitor and sustain compliance with infection control procedures among staff nurses as well as evaluate the suitability of HAIs prevention guidelines.

SURVEY ON SLEEP QUALITY AND RELATED FACTORS AMONG NURSING STUDENTS AT CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY IN 2023

Tue, 07 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Sleep quality is commonly defined in terms of total sleep time, onset latency, sleep efficiency and others. Sleep disturbances are a common health complaint that is expected to surge and have more important consequences in adults, especially in health science students, namely nursing students and midwifery students. Moreover, we have recorded a few studies that have been carried out on sleep quality. Objectives: This study aims to survey the current level of sleep quality among nursing students at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy and determine factors affecting students' sleep quality. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research was conducted on 294 nursing students at the Faculty of Nursing - Medical Technology, Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy from June to August 2023 through a self-report questionnaire. The participants were 294 nursing students, including nursing and midwifery students. The selfreport questionnaire included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and some questions about the characteristics of research subjects such as the features of external environments, learning activities, and personal activities. The PSQI in the study was used in the Vietnamese, and the reliability was evaluated by Trinh My Linh and colleagues with Cronbach's alpha reliability of 0.67. The data were analyzed using the chi-square test and logistic regression. Results: Our study involved 189 students (64.29% response rate). The total students' sleep quality score was 7.18 ± 3.63, which indicated 71.43% of students had sleep disorders. The major factors were self-study time, being disturbed by light in the bedroom and using mobile devices before bed, which were factors related to students' sleep quality (p<0.05). Conclusion: The portion of sleep disorders among nursing students reached large figures. Henceforth, training institutions need to develop health education programs about enhancing the quality of sleep as well as personal lifestyles and self-study methods to help orient and improve the quality of training and quality of life of students.

SELF-CARE AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING OF NURSES CARING FOR COVID-19 PATIENTS IN SELECTED HOSPITALS IN BINH DINH, VIETNAM

Tran Cong Toai, Bui Le Vi Chinh, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Han — Wed, 08 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: COVID-19’s emergence put unprecedented strain on Vietnam’s healthcare system, posing a variety of problems to the country’s nursing profession, potentially impacting nurses’ self-care and psychological well-being, and even putting their lives in jeopardy. When caring for many patients, nurses are constantly bombarded with information, producing cognitive overload in terms of safety. This has an influence on their physical and psychological well-being, as well as the risk of mistakes that compromise treatment quality and patient safety. Objectives: To assess the self-care, psychological well-being, and relationship between self-care and psychological well-being of nurse respondents caring for COVID-19 patients in selected hospitals in Binh Dinh, Vietnam. Materials and methods: A descriptive-correlational method was conducted on 180 nurses caring for COVID-19 patients from October 2022 to December 2022. Anchored on a four-point Likert scale, data were obtained using open-access and validated research instruments adopted from the self-care activities screening scale and psychological well-being assessment tool. SPSS software was used to process the data. Results: A total of 180 nurses participated in the study. The 135 participants were female, and 45 participants were male. Self-care was interpreted as "agree" in health consciousness, nutrition, physical activity, and sleep domains, with an overall mean of 3.21, 3.05, and 3.09, respectively. The psychological well-being was interpreted as "agree" in various domains, including autonomy, environmental mastery, personal growth, purpose in life, self-acceptance, and relations with others, with an overall mean of 2.81, 2.89, 3.09, 3.02, 2.85, and 2.89, respectively. Correlational analysis of the significant relationship on the assessment between self-care and psychological well-being of nurse respondents confirmed that: There was a statistically significant relationship between self-care and psychological well-being (p-value 0.000). Conclusions: The assessment of self-care and psychological well-being of nurses caring for COVID-19 patients in selected hospitals in Binh Dinh, Vietnam, confirmed that health consciousness was the strongest component of self-care, while nutrition was the weakest component of self-care; personal growth was the strongest component of psychological well-being, and autonomy was the weakest component of psychological well-being. Moreover, the significant relationships between the self-care and psychological well-being of nurse respondents caring for COVID-19 patients imply that an improvement in self-care would minimally enhance the psychological well-being of nurses.

STUDY OF CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND SOME RISK FACTORS OF MIGRAINE HEADACHE AT CAN THO CENTRAL GENERAL HOSPITAL IN 2022-2023

Ly Quoc Y, Dang Bich Loan, Duong Minh Thai, Pham To Tran, Le Van Minh — Thu, 16 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Migraine is a common disorder; however, it is still not perfectly diagnosed and treated due to many difficulties in recognizing symptoms or accompanying risk factors. Understanding migraine headaches through surveying standard samples can guide clinicians in the appropriate way of diagnosis and treatment. Objectives: The study aimed to describe the clinical characteristics of migraine and to investigate some risk factors related to migraine headaches among patients examined at Can Tho Central General Hospital during 2022-2023. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 46 patients diagnosed with migraine headaches at Can Tho Central General Hospital in 2022-2023. Results: We recorded that most of the patients experienced headaches lasting from 24 to 72 hours, unilateral (left or right side) fixed headaches, pulsatile headaches and severe intensity headaches with the proportions being 39.14%, 73.9%, 80.4%, and 63.1% respectively. The symptoms accompanying the headache included nausea (67.4%), photophobia (52.2%), dizziness (34.8%), vomiting (32.6%), and absence of aura symptoms (unilateral fixed headache, nausea or/and vomiting, photophobia or/and phonophobia) accounting for 95.7%. Factors exacerbating headaches are stimulant use (21,7%), weather (19,6%), menstrual conditions aggravating headaches in 16.7% of female patients, and physical activity (13.0%). Factors alleviating headaches include using analgesics (60,9%), resting (39.1%), and avoiding exposure to light and photophobia (4.3%). Influencing factors include female (65.2%), insomnia (58.7%), anxiety disorder (52.2%), and family history of having a parent with migraine disease (4.3%). Conclusion: The highest rates were observed among patients experiencing unilateral (left or right side) fixed pain (73.9%) and pulsatile headache (80.4%). The most common accompanying symptom is nausea (67.4%). The proportion of migraineurs without aura symptoms accounts for 95.7%. Stimulant use (21.7%) is the factors that exacerbate headaches the most. On the other hand, avoiding exposure to light and noise reduces headaches in most cases (accounting for 60.9%).

EFFECTS OF ACUTE MALNUTRITION ON THE RESULTS OF PNEUMONIA TREATMENT IN CHILDREN FROM 2 MONTHS TO 5 YEARS OLD

Thu, 16 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Pneumonia is a very common disease in children, especially children under 5 years old, due to their immature immune system not being able to fight against environmental pathogens. Malnutrition affects the severity and outcome of pneumonia treatment. Objectives: 1) To describe the results of pneumonia treatment in acute malnutrition children from 2 months to 5 years old. 2) To determine the relationship between acute malnutrition and the results of pneumonia treatment in children from 2 months to 5 years old. Materials and method: 174 children with pneumonia with acute malnutrition from 2 months to 5 years old are receiving inpatient treatment at Can Tho Children's Hospital, Disease group: Children diagnosed with pneumonia according to the Ministry of Health 2014: Children with cough, fever accompanied by at least one of the signs of rapid breathing according to age, chest indrawing (the lower part of the chest indents during inhalation), or rales lung abnormalities (moisture rales, bronchial rales, crackles, etc.) [6]. AND children diagnosed with acute malnutrition according to the Ministry of Health 2016: Children have 1 of 2 anthropometric conditions: arm circumference (MUAC) or weight for height (CN/CC) lower than the normal threshold for age and gender (in which, severe malnutrition with MUAC<115 mm or CN/CC<-3SD, moderate malnutrition with 115mm≤MUAC<125mm or -3SD≤CN/CC<-2SD) [7]. Control group: children diagnosed with pneumonia without acute malnutrition. Disease control research. Results: Some characteristics after treatment: antibiotic combination was 28.2%, antibiotic change counted for 31.6%, respiratory support was 19.0%, intensive care unit transfer was 6.9%, curative treatment results was 98.7%. There is a significant correlation between acute malnutrition with pneumonia and the characteristics of treatment outcomes: severe pneumonia (p<0.001), combined with antibiotics (p<0.001), respiratory support (p=0.012) and transfer to Intensive Care Unit (p=0.017). Acute malnutrition with pneumonia was not significantly different from changing antibiotics (p<0.625) and death after treatment (p=0.560). Conclusion: Acute malnutrition is statistically significantly different from the severity of pneumonia, antibiotic combination, respiratory support, and transfer to the Intensive Care Unit.

IMMUNOGLOBULIN E IN PEDIATRIC ASTHMA: ADVANCES IN UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGEMENT

Huynh Hoang Khang, Nguyen Dinh Nguyen Chuong, Tran Cong Ly — Wed, 22 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Asthma, a pervasive chronic inflammatory ailment of the respiratory system, remains a global health conundrum. The Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) of 2019 underscores its widespread impact, revealing that asthma afflicts 262 million individuals worldwide, translating into an age-standardized prevalence of 3,416 per 100,000 population. The incidence among children is particularly alarming, with nearly 14% of the global pediatric population diagnosed with the condition. This statistic positions asthma as the foremost chronic respiratory disease among children, a trend that is on the rise, especially across Asia and Europe, as evidenced by the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC). Characterized by variable airflow limitation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, excessive mucus production, and airway inflammation leading to airway constriction, asthma’s multifaceted nature complicates its management. In the realm of immunology, Immunoglobulin E (IgE) has been identified as a pivotal player. Recognized officially as the fifth class of serum immunoglobulins during the 1968 WHO International Reference Center for Immunoglobulins conference in Lausanne, IgE’s crucial role in the pathophysiology of asthma has been rigorously studied. Serum IgE levels, both total and specific, have been proven instrumental in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of pediatric asthma. The landmark approval of Omalizumab by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2003 heralded a new era in the biologic management of asthma, targeting children aged six and above. This was followed by the development of Ligelizumab and Quilizumab, innovative anti-IgE medications currently under investigation for their potential to alleviate symptoms and decelerate the disease’s progression. The integration of Allergy Immunotherapy (AIT) alongside monoclonal antibody therapies like Omalizumab, Ligelizumab, and Quilizumab signifies a monumental shift toward personalized medicine in asthma care. These advances promise not only to ameliorate the quality of life for pediatric asthma patients but also to redefine the landscape of asthma management. Nonetheless, the quest for enhanced treatment modalities for young asthmatics necessitates further in-depth research. The burgeoning field of anti-IgE therapy, in concert with AIT, is poised to set new benchmarks in pediatric asthma management, steering us towards a future where asthma’s grip on children’s health is significantly loosened.

A REVIEW ON CURRENT TRENDS IN Helicobacter pylori MANAGEMENT WITH MEDICINAL PLANTS AND ITS CONSTITUENTS

Huynh Anh Duy, Huynh Ngoc Thuy, Tran Hung — Sat, 18 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium associated with gastric diseases and disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract. The gram-negative bacterium Helicobacter pylori is known as a persistent colonizer of the human stomach, and this bacteria is also involved in extra-intestinal diseases. In 1994, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization classified H. pylori as a class 1 carcinogen, the only bacterium given this classification. Besides, the emergence of H. pylori resistance to antibiotics has been a major clinical challenge in the field of gastroenterology, and this concern has been shown an increasing tendency in many regions of the world. To overcome the current circulating difficulties, new potential therapeutic targets were uncovered to find active substances for the treatment of H. pylori infection. Several medicinal plants and their isolated compounds have been reported for their antimicrobial activity against H. pylori. It is demonstrated that they are efficacious against H. pylori strains that are resistant to drugs. The mechanism of action of many of these plant extracts and plant-derived compounds is different from that of conventional antibiotics. Therefore, natural compounds are emerging as a potential source of raw materials with diverse mechanisms of action. Some commonly known mechanisms can be listed as anti-urease activity, anti-adhesive activity, anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective activity, and effects on the oxidative stress process. Recently, new classes of drugs with reasonable antibacterial mechanisms against H. pylori have also been mentioned, including (1) anti-biofilm agents, (2) anti-virulence molecules (anti-VacA, anti-CagA agents, toxin BabA and LPS inhibitors, anti-motility agents, Helicobacter pylori quorum sensing inhibitors), (3) mucolytic agents, and (4) compounds that impact on essential proteins in the physiology of H. pylori such as inosin-5‘monophosphate dehydrogenase and HsrA inhibitors. This review article aims to summarize current prospects, identify possible novel targets, and be considered as a complementary therapy in the eradication treatment against Helicobacter pylori.

BACTERIAL CULTURES AND OUTCOME OF INTRAMEDULLARY INTERLOCKING NAIL IN OPEN DIAPHYSEAL FRACTURES OF TIBIAL

Mon, 20 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The tibial shaft is one of the most common open long bone fractures; treatment improperly can lead to many serious complications and frequently cause permanent sequelae. Infection is one of the most common and disastrous complications of an open fracture. Therefore, determining the role of qualitative bacterial cultures in implementing the most effective antibiotics for opening tibial fractures and managing promptly and with precision is extremely important to avoid these complications and restore the patient's rehabilitation. Due to the paucity of articles exclusively dealing with this topic, we conducted a study to determine bacterial cultures and the functional outcome of intramedullary interlocking nailing in these patients. Objectives: This study assessed Bacterial cultures and the outcome of intramedullary interlocking nails in open diaphyseal fractures of the tibial. Materials and Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 32 patients with open diaphyseal fractures of tibial who were initially treated with thorough wound debridement and lavage, followed by surgical treatment with intramedullary interlocking nails. The qualitative method of antibiotic disc diffusion in agar (Kirby Bauer) is often applied to determine the susceptibility of bacteria to different antibiotics. All 32 patients were followed up, which was conducted using clinical criteria, and a radiographic was assessed using the RUST score. Results: In our study, the injury surgery interval was 14.54±6.304 hours. Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epiderdimis were common bacteria in open tibial fractures. The mean union time was 15.43±3.726 weeks, which was assessed by RUST score and clinical criteria. The functional outcome with Ketenjian and Shelton Criteria was excellent results in 28 (87.5%) cases and good outcomes in 4 (12.5%) cases. Conclusion: Using the intramedullary interlocking nail in open diaphyseal fractures of the tibial is an excellent procedure that leads to good results with reduced hospital stay, good range of motion, and low infection rate, leading to better union.

STUDY ON THE ULTRASONOGRAPHIC AND RADIOGRAPHIC FINDINGS OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS PATIENTS AT CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY HOSPITAL IN 2022-2023

Mon, 20 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Knee osteoarthritis is a common disease in the group of bone and joint diseases. The incidence of the disease increases with age, commonly occurs in elderly patients or can also occur in young people. Diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis is mainly based on clinical symptoms combined with radiographs. Currently, ultrasound can be used to examine the damage that occurs in early-stage knee osteoarthritis. In addition, it has the ability to evaluate joint cartilage thickness, detect synovitis, joint effusion,... and abnormal features in other joint diseases of the knee, especially when there are no clinical manifestations or no damage on X-ray images. Objectives: To describe and compare ultrasonographic and radiographic findings in osteoarthritis-affected knee joints. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 50 patients and 62 knee joints diagnosed with osteoarthritis according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 1991 criteria. General characteristics, radiographic findings, and ultrasonographic findings in osteoarthritis-affected knee joints of participants were collected at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy from May 2022 to April 2023. Results: Radiographs showed the most common finding was grade 1 osteophytes. The most common feature found on ultrasound was also grade 1 osteophytes. Medial condyle osteophytes and lateral condyle osteophytes: Grade 1 was the most common finding, with 53.2% and 58.1%. Medial tibial plateau osteophytes and lateral tibial plateau osteophytes: Grade 1 was the most common finding, with 54.8% and 50.0%. Medial compartment joint space narrowing: grade 1 was the most common (41.9%). Lateral compartment joint space narrowing was not found (grade 0) in 64.5%. In addition, ultrasound detected synovitis in patients with knee osteoarthritis, accounting for a fairly high rate of 87.1%. There was moderate agreement between osteophyte and joint space narrowing grading on ultrasound and radiographs. Conclusion: There was moderate agreement between osteophyte and joint space narrowing grading on ultrasound and radiographs. Ultrasound can also detect and evaluate synovitis that may not be seen on radiographs. We recommend using the ultrasonography atlas created for knee osteophyte detection in routine knee ultrasound.

CLINICAL AND SUBCLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF CARDIAC ARRHYTHMIAS IN CHILDREN AT CAN THO CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

Fri, 10 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Cardiac arrhythmia is a common cardiovascular emergency with diverse clinical and paraclinical characteristics. Arrhythmias can be harmless, asymptomatic, or have mild symptoms. However, some arrhythmias can cause discomfort with aggressive clinical and paraclinical manifestations, sometimes threatening the patient's life. This disease has very different clinical and paraclinical symptoms between types of arrhythmia. Objectives: Describe the clinical and paraclinical characteristics of arrhythmias in children at the Cardiovascular Department of Can Tho Children's Hospital. Subjects and Methods: A case series study was conducted on 45 children with arrhythmias at the Cardiovascular Department of Can Tho Children's Hospital, with consent obtained from their parents or caregivers to provide accurate information. All children 0 - 15 years old were diagnosed with arrhythmia based on ECG criteria or other investigation methods at the time of first examination or discovered during research at the Department of Cardiology in Can Tho Children's Hospital, whose parents or caregivers agree to provide accurate and clear information. Results: The ratio of men to women was equal (1.1/1), with the ≥60 months age group having a higher rate compared to the <60 months group. Rapid pulse accounted for the highest rate (64.4%) among children with arrhythmias, while chest pain and palpitations accounted for the lowest rates at 11% and 13%, respectively. Most of the electrolytes did not have many disturbances. There was 1 case of hypernatremia (accounting for 2.2%) and 1 case of hypokalemia (accounting for 2.2%). There were no cases of chloride disorders. Echocardiograms mostly had abnormal results in pediatric patients with arrhythmias. The most common kind of abnormal result was mitral incompetence (26.7%). Sinus tachycardia accounted for the highest proportion (64.4%) of electrocardiography. Conclusion: The majority of children with arrhythmia were in the age group ≥60 months. Rapid pulse accounted for the highest rate among children with arrhythmias. Most of the electrolytes did not have many disturbances. Cardiac morphological and functional testing mostly had abnormal results in pediatric patients with arrhythmias.