Tạp chí Y Dược Huế

Hue Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy No.2 Vol.15-2025

Hue JMP — 2025-05-16

Prevention of facial overfilled syndrome

Le Thi Cao Nguyen — 2025-04-28

The rising preference for hyaluronic acid fillers in aesthetic rejuvenation stems from their dual advantage of delivering immediate anti-aging effects and exerting beneficial biological actions with minimal invasiveness. Although the medical advantages of fillers for enhancing appearance and combating the effects of facial aging are widely acknowledged, there have been numerous instances of fillers being used improperly in rejuvenation procedures. The presence of these events can result in enduring consequences that are frequently disregarded during the identification of “Facial overfilled syndrome (FOS)”. Early recognition of FOS is crucial, with key symptoms including a heavy mid-to-lower face, “setting sun” eyes, a broadened nose, a round and over-protruding forehead, and a pointy chin.
The review is to describe the anatomy of facial aging, analyze the reasons and symptoms of facial overfill syndrome, and recommend possible treatment choices. Utilizing small-dose point injection techniques or Canula injection techniques guarantees accurate classification and suitable dosage, while also providing early education to clients regarding this issue.
It is essential to enhance the safety and aesthetics of patients, avoid the development of facial overfill syndrome, and establish a suitable method for patient rejuvenation. It is crucial to highlight the demand for education in comprehending and mastering filler-based cosmetic operations for physicians.

Oral health-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of students wearing fixed orthodontic appliances at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy

Nguyen Ngoc Tam Dan — 2025-05-09

Background: Oral hygiene is vital to each person’s oral health, especially in those undergoing orthodontic treatment. However, only some people know how to properly and effectively clean their teeth. Therefore, assessing oral hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors is necessary.

Objectives: To determine the level of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of oral hygiene of students wearing fixed orthodontic appliances and to examine the relationship between knowledge, attitude, behavior of oral hygiene, and plaque status in students who are wearing fixed orthodontic appliances.

Subjects and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 80 The Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy students wearing fixed orthodontic appliances. The study was conducted from 06/2023 to 09/2023.

Results: 82.35% of students have adequate oral hygiene knowledge, 68.63% have a positive attitude, and 63.73% have proper behavior. The average plaque index on teeth is 0.988 ± 0.412, and our study found only a moderate positive association between plaque status and oral hygiene knowledge (r=0.307, p=0.005).

Conclusion: Knowledge, attitude, and oral hygiene behavior are important factors that directly affect the effectiveness of the orthodontic process. Therefore, it is necessary to promote the provision of adequate oral hygiene knowledge, positive attitudes, and proper behaviors to improve the oral health of healthcare students - who have an impact on their health community in the future.

Impact of molar-incisor hypomineralization on oral health-related quality of life in Vietnamese schoolchildren

Le Van Nhat Thang — 2025-05-09

Background: Although molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) is prevalent in Asian countries, no studies have evaluated its impact on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). The aim of this study was to determine the impact of MIH on OHRQoL in Vietnamese schoolchildren.

Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study with 432 Vietnamese children aged 8-10 years was conducted in Hue city, Vietnam. OHRQoL was measured using the Child Perceptions Questionnaire for 8- to 10-year-olds (CPQ 8 - 10). The presence and severity of MIH was evaluated using the European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (EAPD) criteria. A non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test was applied for multiple intergroup comparisons, followed by Dunn’s test. A p-value <0.05 was the threshold for statistical significance. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0 and GraphPad Prism software version 9.0.0.

Results: Children with MIH had significantly higher CPQ 8 - 10 median scores than those without MIH, indicating that MIH negatively impacts OHRQoL. Similar trends were observed across all four domains: oral symptoms [3 (1 - 4) vs. 4 (3 - 7)]; functional limitations [1 (0 - 2) vs. 3 (1 - 6)]; emotional well-being [2 (0 - 4) vs. 4 (1 - 7)]; and social well-being [1 (0 - 3) vs. 2 (1 - 7)]. Regarding severity, CPQ 8 - 10 overall scores increased from mild [12 (7 - 19)] to severe [30 (23 - 33)] forms of MIH.

Conclusion: MIH was associated with impaired OHRQoL. With increasing severity, this condition showed a more significant negative impact on OHRQoL. To confirm these findings, further studies should be performed with the Parental-Caregivers Perceptions Questionnaire.

Assessing mental health literacy among patients with chronic physical diseases and its associated sociodemographic factors

Le Tran Tuan Anh — 2025-05-09

Background: Mental health literacy (MHL) remains insufficiently addressed in Vietnam, especially among individuals with chronic diseases, who face increased vulnerability to mental health problems. This study examines MHL levels among patients with chronic physical diseases and explores the associated sociodemographic factors, aiming to inform targeted interventions for enhanced mental health care.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 200 adult inpatients at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from August to December 2023. The Vietnamese version of the Mental Health Knowledge Questionnaire (MHKQ) was used to measure MHL. Univariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with lower MHKQ scores. Factors with a p-value <0.05 in univariate analysis were included in a multivariate logistic regression model.

Results: The mean MHKQ score was 7.7, indicating limited MHL, with prevalent misconceptions about mental disorders and low awareness of mental health days. Multivariate analyses highlighted significant associations with lower MHL among those with primary education (OR: 20.23). However, rural residents (OR: 5.35) were more likely to have lower MHKQ score compared with urban residents.

Conclusion: The study reveals low MHL among pariticipants, influenced by sociodemographic factors like rural residency and education level. These findings suggest the need for targeted mental health education, especially for rural and low-education populations, to improve comprehensive care and mental health outcomes for patients with chronic conditions in Vietnam.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and metabolic associated fatty liver disease: prevalence and clinical characteristics

Doan Le Minh Hanh — 2025-05-09

Background: Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) is affecting approximately 24% of individuals and potentially leading to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. This study aims to assess the prevalence of MAFLD in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and analyze their clinical characteristics.

Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study involved 120 stable COPD patients, using FibroScan to detect fatty liver, applying the 2020 APASL criteria for MAFLD diagnosis.

Results: The prevalence of MAFLD was 53.3%, with a mean age of 68.9 ± 8.1 years, predominantly male (89.2%). Patients with MAFLD had higher weight, waist circumference, and BMI compared to those without MAFLD (p<0.05). Smoking rates were high in both groups, while alcohol consumption was notably higher in the MAFLD group (70.3% vs. 50.0%, p=0.023). They also had higher rates of mMRC ≥2 (98.4% vs. 66.1%, p<0.001), higher mean CAT scores (19.9 ± 5.1 vs. 14.1 ± 5.2, p<0.001), and experienced more exacerbations (68.7% with ≥2 per year). They were more likely to belong to the E group of COPD (89.0% vs. 21.5%, p<0.001). They also had higher rates of using reliver and controller medications containing ICS; lower FVC, FEV1, FEF 25-75%, and PEF indices (p<0.05); and a higher proportion of patients in GOLD stages 3 and 4 (p=0.002). Nearly all COPD patients who had fatty liver detected by FibroScan (98.5%) also had metabolic factors qualifying them for a MAFLD diagnosis. Blood glucose, HbA1c, insulin, and HOMA-IR levels were significantly higher in the MAFLD group (p<0.05).

Conclusion: MAFLD affects 53.3% of COPD patients. It’s associated with higher weight, waist circumference, BMI, alcohol use, and inhaled corticosteroids. COPD patients with MAFLD experience more severe respiratory symptoms, poorer lung function, and more frequent exacerbations.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of auriculotherapy for insomnia

Luong Thi Ngoc Yen — 2025-05-09

Background: In modern life, Insomnia is a common problem that affects both health and living quality of people. Auriculotherapy, a traditional medicine – based approach is a therapeutic method in which specific points in auricles are stimulated to achieve specific therapeutic purposes. It is also a safe and simple procedure for treating insomnia.

Objectives: To evaluate the effects of auriculotherapy on treating insomnia at Department of Traditional Medicine and Physical Therapy, Tan Phu District Hospital, Ho Chi Minh city.

Methods: Includes 64 patients were treated with auriculotherapy, according to the research methodology, clinical trial, assess the results before and after treatment.

Results: For Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) total score, an average initial score 15.77 ± 1.88, decreased to 7.77 ± 2.48, the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). The difference between low PSQI score and high PSQI score was associated with age (younger age) and disease duration (p<0.05).

Conclusions: Auriculotherapy help improve sleep quality (sleep latency, sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep disturbance and PSQI score), the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05).

Evaluation of the smear layer removal ability of passive ultrasonic irrigation

Le Thi Thu Nga — 2025-05-09

Background: The smear layer can prevent the penetration of intracanal medicaments into dentinal tubules and influence the adaptation of filling materials to canal walls. Passive ultrasonic irrigation is one of methods to removing smear layer. The purpose of this study is to compare the smear layer removal ability between Passive ultrasonic irrigation and Conventional needle irrigation.

Materials and Methods: 30 extracted human premolar roots were selected and randomly divided into 2 groups (n=15) based on root canal irrigation methods with 17% EDTA solution: (1) Conventional needle irrigation, (2) Passive ultrasonic irrigation. The roots were prepared with Reciproc Blue 25 file and was removed smear layer by 2 different methods of irrigation. The study sample was then sectioned longitudinally with a diamond cutting disc, randomly selecting half of the root. After undergoing sample processing, the half roots were observed and evaluated for the presence of smear layer under a scanning electron microscope with a magnification of 1000 times according to Torabinejad (2003).

Results: In both groups, mean of smear layer score in apical higher than that in cervical (p>0.05). There is no difference in mean of smear layer score between 2 groups at the apical, middle and cervical.

Conclusion: Passive ultrasonic irrigation is as effective in removing smear layer as Conventional needle irrigation.

Surgical outcomes for esophageal atresia at Hue Central Hospital Nguyen Thanh Xuan*

Nguyen Thanh Xuan — 2025-05-09

Background: Esophageal atresia is a congenital defect that requires prompt surgical treatment. Despite advances in neonatal care and surgical techniques, complications and mortality remain significant, especially in cases with other congenital anomalies. Few studies have evaluated esophageal atresia treatment results in Vietnam.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the clinical features and treatment outcomes of esophageal atresia at Hue Central Hospital.

Materials and method: 32 children diagnosed with esophageal atresia who underwent surgical repair at Hue Central Hospital from March 2019 to December 2023 were included. Data were collected from medical records, including demographics, clinical presentation, surgical procedures, postoperative complications, and treatment outcomes. Descriptive statistics were used, and complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo system.

Results: The study included 15 males and 17 females. The average gestational age was 36.6 ± 2.3 weeks, and the mean birth weight was 2256.3 ± 240.9 grams. Surgery was performed an average of 4.7 ± 3.2 days after birth. Type C esophageal atresia was the most common subtype, while 6.2% had Type A. Primary anastomosis was done in 90.6% of cases, and 9.4% required staged repair. The average hospital stay was 25.4 ± 15.7 days. Postoperative complications occurred in 43.7% of patients, with anastomotic stricture, pneumonia, and anastomotic leakage being the most common. The overall mortality rate was 15.6%, with 3 deaths due to cardiac anomalies and 2 due to respiratory problems. 71.9% of patients were discharged in stable condition.

Conclusion: 84.4% survival rate observed in this study showed positive results in resource-limited settings. Prompt diagnosis, timely surgical intervention, and enhanced perioperative management are essential for improving outcomes in esophageal atresia. Further research is needed to refine the approach to managing esophageal atresia.

The effect of auricular acupuncture (AT4) when combined with electro-acupuncture in recovery cerebral infarction: A randomized trial

Ha Tuong Phong — 2025-05-09

Background and Objectives: Cerebral infarction can lead to severe consequences. According to traditional medicine theory, electro-acupuncture and ear acupuncture are some of the successful treatments for rehabilitating the motor functions of paralyzed limbs. The goal of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of combining ear acupuncture (AT4) with traditional electro-acupuncture to aid in the recovery of individuals experiencing limb paralysis due to a brain infarction.

Methods: Patients at the Traditional Medicine Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City provided 108 samples for a clinical experiment. The research follows a randomized, unblinded, and controlled design. The evaluation criteria include the number of rounds the patient puts into the hole in 1 and 3 minutes, the time to walk 10 meters with support equipment, and the Barthel index (BI) score in 4 weeks.

Results: The number of rounds the patient puts into the hole in 1 minute and 3 minutes increased, while the time to walk 10 meters with support equipment decreased. The difference from the baseline demonstrated the effectiveness of acupuncture in general and presented the results of combining acupuncture and ear acupuncture in particular. Compared to the two Groups, BI scores in the Treatment Group improved more than in the Control Group with a statistically significant difference. No patient had any adverse events during the study.

Conclusion: Combining auricular acupuncture and electro-acupuncture can improve motor rehabilitation in patients with cerebral infarction.

The presence of bacteria on periodontal ligament cells in different storage environments for teeth after displacement from the alveolar bone: preliminary in vitro research results

Phan Anh Chi — 2025-05-09

Introduction: Teeth displaced from their alveolar bone can be replanted if properly handled and stored in suitable environments. To help minimize the failure of reimplantation, teeth should be preserved in a storage environment that is initially free of bacteria.

Research objective: Evaluating the morphology of bacteria on the periodontal ligament cells in different storage environments at various time points after the teeth have been removed from the alveolar bone using Gram staining.

Materials and Methods: An in vitro study without a control group was conducted using 48 premolars and third molars after extraction, which were stored in four environments: Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium (DMEM), fresh whole milk (unsweetened), saline solution, and electrolyte-replenishing drink. The presence of bacteria was assessed at four time points: 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, and 24 hours. Results: In DMEM and fresh whole milk, Gram-positive cocci, Gram-positive bacilli, and Gram-negative bacilli were presented at 30 minutes, 1 hour, and 2 hours; by 24 hours, Gram-negative cocci were also presented. In the saline solution, Gram-positive cocci and bacilli were also presented at all time points; Gram-negative bacilli appeared at 2 and 24 hours. In the electrolyte-replenishing drink, Gram-positive cocci were the only bacteria found at all time points.

Conclusion: Bacteria were presented on the periodontal ligament cells of the root surface in all four environments and at all four-time points of storage. However, at different time points, the number of bacterial groups found in DMEM and fresh whole milk was the highest and nearly equivalent, followed by the saline solution and the lowest count in the electrolyte-replenishing drink.

Evaluate the influence of enamel-shade composite thickness on the overall color of aesthetic dental restorations

Dang Minh Huy — 2025-05-09

Background: Composite materials are widely used in aesthetic dental restorations due to their advantages, including minimal invasive preparation, high mechanical strength, adhesive durability, biocompatibility, time and cost-effectiveness. In composite layering techniques, material thickness significantly impacts the aesthetic outcome.

Objectives: This study investigates the effect of enamel-shade composite thickness on the final color values of restorations using a two-layer technique to replace enamel and dentine.

Materials and Method: Forty-five A2 enamel-shade composite discs were created from three composite groups: DenFil (Vericom Corp.), Harmonize (Kerr), and Beautifil II (Shofu Inc.) with five thicknesses: 0.3, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mm. Parameters measured included translucency, chroma, value, and color difference. Samples were photographed against black-white backgrounds and a 3.0 mm thick OA3 dentine-shade composite background. Color parameters (L, a, b) were collected using image analysis software to assess translucency, chroma, value, and color difference.

Results: Translucency and chroma were inversely proportional to thickness for the three composite groups. With value, in the DenFil group, increased thickness decreased value, while no statistically significant correlation was found in the other two groups. When comparing the restoration color with the same enamel-shade composite thickness, no significant differences were found between Harmonize and Beautifil II, but DenFil significantly differed.

Conclusion: In the two-layer technique for replacing enamel and dentine, enamel-shade composite thickness affects restoration color characteristics, varying among composite materials.

Prevalence and risk factors of low bone mineral density in spondyloarthritis

Nguyen Hoang Thanh Van — 2025-05-09

Objectives: This study investigates the effect of enamel-shade composite thickness on the final color values of restorations using a two-layer technique to replace enamel and dentine.

Conclusion: In the two-layer technique for replacing enamel and dentine, enamel-shade composite thickness affects restoration color characteristics, varying among composite materials.

Comparative analysis of antibiotic resistance patterns and virulence genes in Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from clinical samples at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital

Ung Thi Thuy — 2025-05-09

Objectives: This study investigates the effect of enamel-shade composite thickness on the final color values of restorations using a two-layer technique to replace enamel and dentine.

Conclusion: In the two-layer technique for replacing enamel and dentine, enamel-shade composite thickness affects restoration color characteristics, varying among composite materials.

Clinical utility of R-OPS score in the preoperative diagnosis of ovarian cancer: a prospective cohort study

Vo Hoang Lam — 2025-05-09

Objective: This study aimed to validate the diagnostic utility of the Rajavithi-Ovarian Cancer Predictive Score (R-OPS) in preoperative ovarian cancer diagnosis and compare its efficacy with that of the Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA).

Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at two hospitals in Vietnam from January 2024 to January 2025, involving 215 patients with adnexal masses (69 malignant, 146 benign) who underwent surgery. R-OPS was calculated using menopausal status, ultrasound findings, and serum cancer antigen 125 (CA125) and human epididymal protein 4 (HE4) levels.

Results: R-OPS achieved an AUC of 91.4% (95% CI: 87.0 - 95.7%). At a cut-off of > 330, it displayed a specificity of 95.2% and a sensitivity of 71.0%, with positive and negative predictive values of 86.0% and 87.3%. R-OPS outperformed ROMA by 5.9% in AUC (P<0.001).

Conclusion: R-OPS is an effective tool for preoperative differentiation between benign and malignant ovarian masses, demonstrating superior performance compared to ROMA.

Pharmacist-led counseling on insulin pens: A pre-post study in Nguyen Tri Phuong Hospital

Tran Truong Phu Khanh — 2025-05-09

Background: Improper insulin pen use remains a significant barrier to optimal glycemic control, leading to treatment inefficacy and increased risk of complications. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of pharmacist-led counseling on outpatients’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding insulin pen use at Nguyen Tri Phuong Hospital.

Materials and methods: A pre-post intervention study was conducted with 127 post-intervention patients out of 219 pre-interventions in a month (10 - 11/2022).

Results: 219 patients participated in the consultation, and 127 were research subjects. After the intervention, patients with good knowledge, positive attitude, and good practice increased significantly from 57.5% to 91.3%. (p<0.001), from 78.7% to 93.7% (p<0.001), and from 43.3% to 88.2% (p<0.001), respectively. Correct steps increased strongly were “perform a safety test or air shot” (from 18.9 - 24.4% to 69.3 - 76.4%), “keeping the injection button at the injection site for at least 5 seconds” (from 46.5% to 89.8%), and “remove and discard the needle” (from 17.3% to 67.7%).

Conclusions: Pharmacist-led counseling significantly improved patients’ knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding insulin pen use.

A survey on antibiotic resistance of Extended-Spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli isolated from urinary tract specimens at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital

Le Thi Bao Chi — 2025-05-09

Background: Urinary tract infections caused by Extended-Spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains are a major concern and a key driver of β-lactam antibiotic group’s resistance. Finding the frequency of ESBL-producing E. coli isolated from urine samples and analyzing their antibiotic resistance profiles were the objectives of this study.

Materials and methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted on urine samples at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from January 2023 to April 2024. Bacterial culture, identification, and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed according to standard microbiology laboratory procedures.

Results: 104 ESBL-producing E. coli strains were isolated, accounting for 45.2% of patients with urinary tract infections caused by E. coli. This group was most common in patients over 60 years old, primarily from patients of the Urology outpatient clinic and the Department of General Internal Medicine - Endocrinology - Musculoskeletal and the prevalence was quite similar between males and females (46.9% and 44.6% respectively). The isolates showed high resistance to ampicillin, some cephalosporins, and quinolones, but still remained highly susceptible (>90%) to carbapenems and fosfomycin, and fully susceptible to nitrofurantoin.

Conclusion: E. coli producing ESBL are a real burden in the treatment of urinary tract infections. Consequently, investigating the antibiotic resistance profiles of ESBL-producing E. coli in clinical settings is essential for informing physicians’ decisions on appropriate antimicrobial therapy.

Bioactive constituents of Goniothalamus tamirensis essential oil and its anticancer activity

Nguyen Khanh Thuy Linh — 2025-05-09

Background and objectives: Cancer is a major challenge, affecting health, society, and the economy. Natural therapies may help reduce side effects of conventional treatment. The present study aimed to determine phytochemical characterization and evaluation of in vitro anticancer activity of the essential oil (EO) obtained from G. tamirensis leaves.

Materials and methods: The leaves of G. tamirensis were collected in Phong Dien, Thua Thien Hue, in August 2024. The chemical composition of the EO was identified using GC-MS, and the anticancer potential of the EO was evaluated using the SRB assay against human cell lines (HepG2, MCF7, A549).

Results: The main compounds identified in G. tamirensis EO were oxygenated sesquiterpenes. The EO showed significant anticancer activity against MCF, A549 and HepG2 cell lines with IC₅₀ of 8.79, 10.29 and 7.32 mg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion: This study suggests that G. tamirensis leaf EO is a promising candidate for use as an anticancer agent.

A comparison of the effects of two types of periodontal dressings with and without zinc oxide on non-surgical periodontal treatment

Nguyen Thi Thuy Duong — 2025-05-09

Background: Periodontal dressings have recently become an important research topic in periodontal treatment. Periodontal dressings have also proven effective in supporting non-surgical mechanical therapy for short-term clinical outcomes. Objective: This study evaluated the effects of two types of periodontal dressings, with and without zinc oxide, on non-surgical periodontal treatment.

Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled trial, with a split-mouth design, was conducted on 31 patients with stage II-III periodontitis (AAP/EFP 2017). After scaling and root planing, two types of periodontal dressings were applied in opposite sextant regions. Clinical periodontal indices were assessed at baseline and 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment. Radiographs were obtained at baseline and 6 months after treatment.

Results: After treatment, the plaque index (PlI), bleeding on probing index (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) in both groups were significantly reduced compared with baseline values. The periodontal dressing without zinc oxide showed higher effects than periodontal dressing with zinc oxide in terms of changes in the gingival index (GI), PPD, and CAL.

Conclusion: Periodontal dressings, especially without zinc oxide, support clinical improvement in stage II-III periodontitis through non-surgical therapy.

Utility of EMG Logger in diagnose sleep bruxism

Le Thi Khanh Huyen — 2025-05-09

Background: Surface electromyographic (EMG) devices are becoming more and more popular to assess sleep bruxism. Objectives: To evaluate characteristics of sleep bruxism using EMG Logger.

Materials and Methods: A convenient sample of the patients at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital who had clinical signs related to sleep bruxism was collected. The patients were asked for anamnesis, followed by clinical examination and then guided to attach EMG Logger device in 2 consecutive nights, recorded data were analyzed by a specialized software.

Results: Severe sleep bruxism accounts for the highest rate of 67%, moderate level accounts for 33%, there is no mild level and no bruxism; 80% had tooth wear, buccal and tongue mucosa ridging were 83.3% and 93.3%, respectively, there is no difference between the level of sleep bruxism and clinical signs (p > 0.05); 82.9% were phasic and mixed episode, 17.1% were tonic episode.

Conclusions: EMG Logger supports diagnose and provide detailly about specifications of sleep bruxism.

Early risk and protective factors for allergic rhinitis in children: A cross-sectional study

Hoang Phuoc Minh — 2025-05-09

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is one of the most common inflammatory diseases, leading to health and economic burdens. Genetic and environmental factors may influence the development of AR in early life.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 320 pediatric patients from the Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Ophthalmology - Maxillofacial Surgery, the Department of Pediatrics at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, and the Pediatric Center of Hue Central Hospital between April 2022 and December 2023. Data on allergies, clinical history, family background, and environmental factors were collected through a parent-reported survey based on the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the odds ratios (OR) for potential factors contributing to AR.

Results: The proportion of children with current AR was 29% in the 6-7-year-old group, 26.2% in the 13-14-year-old group, and 28.1% across all groups. Parental allergy (adjusted OR 2.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.28-4.66), maternal age (1.85, 1.05-3.26), and history of eczema (1.95, 1.06-3.59) were independently associated with increased risks of AR. In stratified analyses, there was evidence that prolonged breastfeeding ≥12 months and dog exposure decreased the risk of AR in the 6-7-year-old group.

Conclusions: Certain environmental and genetic factors were associated with AR in children aged 6-7 and 13-14 within a small contemporary pediatric outpatient cohort. However, a large-scale study is needed to validate these findings.

Assessing medical professionalism among students at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy in 2023: A multi-method evaluation approach

Nguyen Minh Tam — 2025-05-09

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to medical professionalism among fifth-year medical students by using three assessment tools aligned with different competency levels in Miller’s Pyramid and to analyse correlations among these assessment approaches.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 401 fifth-year medical students at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy. Three tools were used: (1) the Penn State College of Medicine Professionalism Questionnaire (PSCOM), (2) Barry’s scenario-based questionnaire, and (3) an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) evaluating communication and professionalism using standardised patients. Data were analysed using t-tests and Pearson correlation coefficients.

Results: The average scores (converted to a 100-point scale) were: PSCOM 81.3, Barry’s scenario-based questionnaire 45.5, and OSCE 79.0 (p<0.001). There were significant positive correlations between PSCOM and Barry’s scenario-based questionnaire (r=0.12; p<0.05) and between PSCOM and the OSCE score (r=0.16; p<0.01).

Conclusion: Assessment of medical professionalism should adopt a multidimensional, multi-method approach to comprehensively and objectively reflect learners’ competencies. It should also support a progressive evaluation process aligned with the advancing stages of professionalism training in medical education.

Survey on the eating behavior of first-year medical students at University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University

Tran Thi Tao — 2025-05-09

Background: Nutrition is closely related to human health. Unhealthy diet increases the risk of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, overweight and obesity. Changing eating habits and unhealthy behaviors can last a long time and affect the future.

Objectives: (1) To describe the eating behaviors of first-year medical students at University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, (2) To identify some factors related to the eating behaviors of these students.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 312 students at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy from July 2023 to August 2024. Data were collected by direct interview based on a structured questionnaire. We used a multivariate logistic regression model to identify factors associated with students’ eating behavior.

Results: There was 58.3% of students with poor behavior. Some factors associated with students’ eating behaviors were sex, monthly allowance, physical activity, bedtime, time spent for using the Internet, desire to change diet, with a significance level of p<0.05.

Conclusion: Medical students have a high proportion of poor eating behavior. Our study emphasizes the importance of getting more than six hours of sleep and reducing internet use among students, while also providing education on healthy diets to encourage positive changes in eating habits. Additionally, encouraging students to engage in physical activities contributes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Phenolic Compounds and Carotenoids from the Leaves of Gymnosporia chevalieri Tard.

Doan Thi Ai Nghia — 2025-05-09

Background: The Gymnosporia genus holds substantial potential for bioactive compound discovery, yet its phytochemical composition remains underexplored relative to its botanical diversity. In Vietnam, aside from preliminary studies on G. stylosa, systematic research on Gymnosporia species is notably lacking. This study provides the understanding of the chemical constituents of G. chevalieri, establishing a basis for future research on its potential applications and bioactive properties.

Materials and methods: The leaves of G. chevalieri were macerated in methanol to produce a crude extract, which was further fractionated via liquid-liquid partitioning using n-hexane and ethyl acetate as solvents. Compounds were then isolated and purified using various chromatographic techniques. Structural elucidation was achieved through 1D- and 2D-NMR and HR-ESI-MS analysis, supported by comparison with previously reported spectroscopic data.

Results & Conclusion: Seven phenolic compounds and two carotenoids were isolated from G. chevalieri leaves. These were identified as syringaldehyde (1), 3,7-dihydroxy-6-methoxy-2,7-dimethyldibenzofuran (3), atalantoflavone (4), lutein (6), lutein 3′-methyl ether (7), and two mixtures: 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (2a) with 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde (2b), and breynioside B (5a) with 6′-O-vanilloylarbutin (5b). Notably, compounds 2-7 were isolated from the Gymnosporia genus for the first time.

Development of an in situ gel containing tinidazole-loaded polymeric nanoparticles for oral cavity administration

Ho Hoang Nhan — 2025-05-09

Background: Tinidazole (TNZ) demonstrates greater efficacy against anaerobic bacteria, particularly Gram-negative strains, compared to metronidazole. Nanosizing TNZ and incorporating it into in situ gel formulations for topical periodontitis treatment offers several advantages.

Objectives: This study aimed to formulate an in situ gel containing preformed Eudragit RSPO-based nanoparticles (NPs) of TNZ and to evaluate its physicochemical properties.

Materials and methods: Poloxamer 407 was used as a thermosensitive gelling agent, either alone or in combination with other gelling agents. The in situ gels containing TNZ NPs were prepared and evaluated for physicochemical properties.

Results: The in situ gel containing TNZ NPs, formulated with Poloxamer 407 and sodium alginate, exhibited a smooth texture, a gelation temperature of 31.33 ± 0.24 °C, a gelation time of less than one minute, a pH of 6.72 ± 0.03, and a stable gel state over an extended period. Compared to the in situ gel with TNZ material, the TNZ NP-loaded gel prolonged drug release. The drug release mechanism was best described by the Higuchi model (with F0).

Conclusion: This TNZ NP-loaded in situ gel formulation shows promise for further research in periodontitis treatment.

Awareness regarding self-prevention and response to heatwaves among the residents in several wards and communes in Thua Thien Hue province

Nguyen Thanh Gia — 2025-04-28

Background: Heatwaves pose a threat to public health in Vietnam, and unprecedented heatwaves have been recorded in Thua Thien Hue province over recent years.

Objective: This study aimed to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding self-protection and response to heatwaves among residents in some Thua Thien Hue province communes and investigate their associated factors.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study involving 500 participants was conducted in March 2024. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was utilized to identify the associated factors.

Results: Our findings indicated that the prevalence of heat-related illnesses was 24.2%, while chronic diseases accounted for 41.6%. The proportions of residents demonstrating good knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding self-protection and responses to heatwaves were 92.0%, 61.2%, and 62.2%, respectively. Factors associated with knowledge regarding prevention and responses to heatwaves included age group, educational background, heat-related illnesses, chronic diseases, nature of work, primary cooling methods, and information sources. Attitudes were influenced by profession, area of residence, financial family status, and knowledge. Factors associated with practices included age group, educational background, area of residence, chronic diseases, nature of work, primary cooling methods, information sources, knowledge, and attitudes (p<0.05).

Conclusion: A high proportion of participants demonstrated good knowledge. However, attitudes and practices regarding heat prevention measures were relatively low. Our findings could help reframe and communicate Thua Thien Hue’s heat wave plans in the light of climate change

Cardiovascular risk factors and target organ damage in hypertensive patients at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital

Duong Minh Quy — 2025-05-16

Background: Hypertension is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases, often referred to as the silent killer. The prevalence of hypertension is increasing globally. This study investigates certain clinical and subclinical characteristics, cardiovascular risk factors in hypertensive patients, and evaluates the correlation between these risk factors and target organ damage with systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Subjects and methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study of hypertensive patients treated at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.

Results: The study included 215 hypertensive patients, with a blood pressure control rate of 35.8%. Patients whose blood pressure was controlled had a younger age, lower BMI, a lower incidence of smoking, lower LDL-C levels, and lower rates of cerebrovascular accidents and diabetes, all showing statistical significance compared to the uncontrolled group. The high cardiovascular risk group had higher blood glucose and lower HDL-C levels, both statistically significant compared to the low cardiovascular risk group. A moderate positive correlation was found between systolic blood pressure and smoking, a strong positive correlation between systolic blood pressure and blood glucose, and a moderate positive correlation between systolic blood pressure and the Gensini score.

Conclusion: There is a correlation between cardiovascular risk factors and blood pressure control. Achieving target blood pressure helps reduce the risk of target organ damage.

Study on internet addition status of students and its related factors at a medical college in Central Vietnam

Pham Thi Thien Thanh — 2025-05-16

Background: The internet has become an indispensable part of daily life. However, excessive use of the internet can lead to internet addiction, a recognized mental health condition included in the International Classification of Diseases-11 Revision (ICD-11). During the COVID-19 pandemic, this issue appears to have worsened due to increased internet use. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of internet addiction among students at Dang Thuy Tram Medical College in Quang Ngai Province in 2020 and to explore the associated factors.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 425 full-time students at Dang Thuy Tram Medical College in Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam, in 2020, using a self- administrative questionnaire. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, mental health status and internet use behaviors. The 20-item Internet Addiction Test (IAT-20) was used to assess internet addiction. Statistic analyses including Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression to explore factors related to students’ internet addition.

Results: The prevalence of medical college students showing mild internet addiction or more severe conditions was 348 among them, 79.9% had mild internet addiction, 19.8% showed internet addiction and 0.3% had a severe condition. Regression analysis indicated that internet addiction was significantly associated with school year (aOR = 2.39, 95%CI:1.08 - 5.29, 2^nd year vs 1^st year), living arrangement (aOR = 4.15, 95%CI:1.59 - 10.79, living with friends vs living with family), warnings from academic advisors about internet use (aOR = 1.7, 95%CI:1.5 - 6.9), and the time spent for the main purpose of internet use.

Conclusion: Internet addiction is highly prevalent among medical college students, especially during the pandemic period. Efforts should be made to raise awareness among student, families, and academic institutions about the risks of internet addiction and promote healthier internet use behaviors.