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Vietnamese learners and teachers experienced enormous difficulty in online learning during COVID-19 due to their previous limited exposure to virtual learning. The primary purpose of the study is to develop an appropriate and effective grammar instruction approach for virtual learning. To achieve that purpose, this study compared the relative effects of two types of grammar instruction (Traditional Instruction and Processing Instruction) on online learning of the Past Perfect Tense. More than 160 learners from two elementary classes at a university in Ho Chi Minh City participated in the study with two treatment groups: Traditional Instruction (TI) and Processing Instruction (PI). All the lessons were conducted in a virtual classroom. Pre-test and post-test involving comprehension and production tasks were measured. Overall, the learners who experienced PI gained significantly better results than the TI group in comprehension tasks, while both groups performed similarly in production tasks. Moreover, many features of Processing Instruction are well-suited for the nature of online learning, which benefits learners while they are struggling with virtual classrooms.

Despite increasing scholarly interest in tertiary student perceptions of plagiarism, very little is known about those held by postgraduate (PG) students, although differences between undergraduate (UG) and PG students relate to both their characteristics and the demands of their studies. Furthermore, there is a dearth of research within the context of international education, where managing plagiarism is seen as a major challenge. This paper reports on a recent online survey with 207 Vietnamese (n = 72) and local (n = 135) PG students at a New Zealand university regarding their perceptions of plagiarism. The findings showed significant differences both between and within the two groups. Perception variations arose from a range of influences and prior experiences, not just the culture in which the students were initially educated. Differences related to participants' age, gender, academic levels, disciplines, and teaching experience. This study's findings contribute knowledge about under-researched PG students and problematize prevalent stereotypes of international students regarding plagiarism. They generate implications for higher education institutions to accommodate international and domestic PG student needs in ways that respect their diversities in detail as individuals, not as members of a homogeneous group. Further qualitative research to explore PG student perceptions in greater depth is recommended.

The rapid expansion of shrimp farming in Ca Mau Province, Vietnam, since the early 2000s has converted mangrove forests into aquaculture ponds, resulting in deforestation and degraded mangrove ecosystems. A system dynamics model was developed to assess the interactions and temporal changes among various economic, social, and environmental factors. The analysis was conducted under two development scenarios. In the Business as Usual scenario, shrimp farming will expand to 317,037 ha in 2050, reducing mangrove coverage to 76,484 ha and carbon storage to 4.8×106 MgC. However, this expansion is expected to create jobs, producing an output value of 25,153 billion VND and accounting for 25.13% of the province's workforce. Conversely, the Policy Scenario stabilises shrimp farming areas at 280,000 ha, which will have alternative impacts on the environment, society, and economy. By 2050, Ca Mau's mangrove coverage and carbon storage will reach 88,902 ha and 5.6×106 MgC, respectively; the shrimp industry will generate an output value of 22,214 billion VND and account for 23.58% of the province's workforce. Despite yielding lower economic growth and employment generation, policy interventions are expected to support overall positive developmental progress. Furthermore, a shift in the labour structure is anticipated due to restrictions on shrimp farming areas. The findings provide insights for policymakers to anticipate potential consequences of future development and appropriately adjust policy interventions. Several strategies, such as land use management, economic diversification, and alternative livelihood generation, are needed to balance environmental sustainability with social and economic growth in Ca Mau. Moreover, the methodology presented in this study is not limited to Ca Mau but is also applicable to other areas where the expansion of aquaculture endangers mangrove ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) measures a relatively positive adaptation despite adversity. This research aims to translate and validate the BRS into Vietnamese. Exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, measurement invariance analysis across gender, and test-retest reliability were examined consecutively in Study 1 (n = 304), Study 2 (n = 301), and Study 3 (n = 48). BRS has demonstrated good psychometric properties, including acceptable internal consistency reliability (α = 0.66) and test-retest reliability (r = 0.67). Researchers have found a two-factor structure of the BRS in study 1, and the scale scores showed adequate internal consistency. The two-factor structure was confirmed with a new sample in study 2. BRS construct validity was further examined by correlating with psychological well-being, self-compassion, stress, anxiety, and depression. Although some salient limitations exist in the present study, such as the self-selected sample included a higher level of education than the average in Vietnam, and data were collected via self-report. However, our research suggested that the BRS could measure the Vietnamese university students' resilience by assessing two dimensions (negative and positive resilience). The Vietnamese version of BRS is a good psychometric for resilience studies in Viet Nam. The scale scores showed adequate internal consistency. The two-factor structure was confirmed with a new sample in study 2. BRS construct validity was further examined by correlated with psychological well-being, self-compassion, stress, anxiety, and depression. BRS has demonstrated good psychometric properties, including acceptable internal consistency reliability (α = 0.66) and test-retest reliability (r = 0.67). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Improved access to healthcare, increasing elderly population, growing incidence of chronic diseases, combined with the high prevalence of accidents and infectious diseases are driving the demand for critical care services in acute hospitals. However, low and middle-income countries not only have a shortage of critical care nurses, but there are also gaps in their graduate, post-graduate, and specialized training as well as in their continuing education to support them in their role. Methods: This quality improvement project aimed to assess the effect of a web-based group study program on knowledge acquisition and skills and competency development of critical care nurses at seven private,not-for-profit hospital sites within a hospital system in Vietnam. The Essentials of Critical Care Orientation 4.0 course from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses was delivered to two cohorts of ICU nurses who worked in critical care. Course content was translated in Vietnamese. The program leveraged a preceptor-facilitator-learner model that depended on group discussions and self-learning. Program effectiveness was evaluated using quantitative pre-and post-test design, combined with a post-program survey. Results: Average post-test scores of the first cohort increased by 34.0% over pre-test while those of the second cohort increased by an average 41.0%. Post-program survey revealed that all learners were satisfied with the quality of content, the web-based delivery system, content translation and the overall teaching methodology. Learners also demonstrated greater confidence in delivering safe, proactive patient care. Conclusion: The utilization of an online, standardized western education program, translated to Vietnamese, delivered through a facilitator-group learning model is successful in increasing the knowledge level of Vietnamize critical care nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edwardsiella ictaluri is responsible for causing bacillary necrosis (BNP) in striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) in Vietnam. This study offers a comprehensive genomic characterization of E. ictaluri to enhance understanding of the molecular epidemiology, virulence, and antimicrobial resistance. E. ictaluri isolates were collected from diseased striped catfish in the Mekong Delta. The species was confirmed through PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using minimum inhibitory concentrations for commonly used antimicrobials. Thirty representative isolates were selected for whole genome sequencing to delineate their genomic profiles and phylogeny. All strains belonged to ST-26 and exhibited genetic relatedness, differing by a maximum of 90 single nucleotide polymorphisms. Most isolates carried multiple antimicrobial resistance genes, with the tet(A) gene present in 63% and floR in 77% of the genomes. The ESBL gene, blaCTX-M-15, was identified in 30% of the genomes. Three plasmid replicon types were identified: IncA, p0111, and IncQ1. The genomes clustered into two clades based on their virulence gene profile, one group with the T3SS genes and one without. The genetic similarity among Vietnamese isolates suggests that disease spread occurs within the Mekong region, underscoring the importance of source tracking, reservoir identification, and implementation of necessary biosecurity measures to mitigate spread of BNP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early neurological deterioration (END) is progressive neurological deterioration with an increase in NIHSS score of 2 points or more in the first 72 hours from the onset of acute ischemic stroke. END increases the risk of poor clinical outcomes at day 90 of ischemic stroke. We will study the frequency, predictors, and outcomes of patients with END in a case-control study at a comprehensive stroke centre in Vietnam. of the design is a descriptive observational study, longitudinal follow-up of patients with minor stroke hospitalized at the Stroke Center of Bach Mai Hospital from December 1, 2023, to December 1, 2024. Minor stroke patients characterized by NIHSS score ≤ 5 hospitalized within 24 hours of symptom onset will be recruited. The estimated END rate is about 30%, relative accuracy ε = 0.11, 95% reliability, expected 5% of patients lost data or follow-up, and an estimated sample size of 779 patients. This study will help determine the END rate in patients with minor stroke and related factors, thereby building a prognostic model for END. Our study determined the END rate in patients with minor stroke in Vietnam and also proposed risk factors for minor stroke management and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last few decades, when researching ethnic minority communities, researchers have increasingly focused on the local knowledge assets that the community has amassed through productive labour and life organisation. The Central Highlands is a multi-ethnic area that still retains various and distinct sources of traditional knowledge, which play a crucial role in the community's long-term development. Based on the materials gathered, the paper primarily examines the function of indigenous knowledge as a development resource in the Central Highlands region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An advisory board meeting was held with experts in Vietnam (Hanoi, August 2022), to review the evidence on invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) epidemiology, clinical management, and meningococcal vaccines to reach a consensus on recommendations for meningococcal vaccination in Vietnam. IMD is a severe disease, with the highest burden in infants and children. IMD presents as meningitis and/or meningococcemia and can progress extremely rapidly. Almost 90% of deaths in children occur within the first 24 h, and disabling sequelae (e.g., limb amputations and neurological damage) occur in up to 20% of survivors. IMD patients are often hospitalized late, due to mild and nonspecific early symptoms and misdiagnosis. Difficulties related to diagnosis and antibiotic misuse mean that the number of reported IMD cases in Vietnam is likely to be underestimated. Serogroup B IMD is predominant in many regions of the world, including Vietnam, where 82% of IMD cases were due to serogroup B (surveillance data from 2012 to 2021). Four component meningococcal B vaccine (4CMenB) is used in many countries (and is part of the pediatric National Immunization Program in 13 countries), with infant vaccination starting from two months of age, and a 2 + 1 dosing schedule. Experts recommend 4CMenB vaccination as soon as possible in Vietnam, starting from two months of age, with a 2 + 1 dosing schedule, and at least completing one dose before 6 months of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antivirals have been given widely for patients with COVID-19 breakthrough in Asian countries, creating a "black market" for unapproved and unprescribed medications. More evidence is needed to clarify the benefits of antivirals in these settings. Methods: We conducted a random-sampling retrospective cohort study at a general hospital in Vietnam. We recruited patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 breakthrough who were given either standard of care (SoC) alone or SoC + antiviral. Primary outcome was residual respiratory symptoms that lasted > 7 days. Secondary outcome was long COVID-19, diagnosed by specialized physicians. We used logistic regression to measure odds ratio (OR), in addition to a sensitivity and subgroup analyses to further explore the results. Results: A total of 142 patients (mean age 36.2 ± 9.8) were followed. We recorded residual symptoms in 27.9% and 20.3% of the SoC and SoC + antiviral group, while the figures for long COVID-19 were 11.8% and 8.1%, respectively. Antiviral use was not significantly associated with lower the risks of residual symptoms (OR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.22–1.20, p = 0.12) or long COVID-19 (OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.16–1.90, p = 0.35). The sensitivity and subgroup analyses did not show any significant differences between the study groups (all p > 0.05). Conclusion: Antivirals were not associated with faster resolution of respiratory symptoms or lower risks of long COVID-19. Further studies should focus on different antivirals to confirm their effects on different sub-populations. Meanwhile, antivirals should only be used in very high-risk patients to avoid excessive costs and harms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dengue is expanding globally, but how dengue emergence is shaped locally by interactions between climatic and socio-environmental factors is not well understood. Here, we investigate the drivers of dengue incidence and emergence in Vietnam, through analysing 23 years of district-level case data spanning a period of significant socioeconomic change (1998-2020). We show that urban infrastructure factors (sanitation, water supply, long-term urban growth) predict local spatial patterns of dengue incidence, while human mobility is a more influential driver in subtropical northern regions than the endemic south. Temperature is the dominant factor shaping dengue's distribution and dynamics, and using long-term reanalysis temperature data we show that warming since 1950 has expanded transmission risk throughout Vietnam, and most strongly in current dengue emergence hotspots (e.g., southern central regions, Ha Noi). In contrast, effects of hydrometeorology are complex, multi-scalar and dependent on local context: risk increases under either short-term precipitation excess or long-term drought, but improvements in water supply mitigate drought-associated risks except under extreme conditions. Our findings challenge the assumption that dengue is an urban disease, instead suggesting that incidence peaks in transitional landscapes with intermediate infrastructure provision, and provide evidence that interactions between recent climate change and mobility are contributing to dengue's expansion throughout Vietnam. The geographic distribution of dengue has been expanding in recent decades, and Vietnam is one of the most severely affected countries. In this study, the authors use Bayesian hierarchical modelling to investigate the socio-environmental and climatic drivers of dengue incidence in Vietnam and how they vary across the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting isolation measures created an increase in the usage of smart devices and internet among adolescents. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of internet addiction, the prevalence of high level of anxiety as well as to examine factors associated with the high level of anxiety among adolescents in Hanoi, Vietnam during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Data was collected using respondent-driven sampling and Google online survey forms from a sample of 5,325 school students aged 11–17 in Hanoi between October and December 2021. A short scale consisting of 5 items was used to measure internet addiction and the GAD-7 was used to measure adolescent anxiety level. Results: The findings revealed that 22.8% and 7.32% of adolescents experienced moderate and severe anxiety. About 32.7% of the study sample exhibited at least three internet addiction indicators. Logistic regression analysis identified significant predictors for high levels of adolescent anxiety. Being female, family experiencing economic difficulties, and exposure to domestic violence were associated with higher risk of anxiety disorder (OR 1.78, 1.45, and 2.89, respectively). Both average daily online time and internet addiction demonstrated gradient association with high level of anxiety. Conclusion: The prevalence of internet addiction and high level of anxiety were high among adolescents in Hanoi, Vietnam during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study highlights the importance of implementing measures at the family and school levels to promote a balanced and healthy approach to smart device use among adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Motile Aeromonas septicemia (MAS) is a burden for striped catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) farmers in Vietnam. MAS can be caused by several species of Aeromonas but Aeromonas hydrophila is seen as the leading cause of MAS in aquaculture, but recent reports suggest that A. dhakensis is also causing MAS. Methods: Here we investigated the bacterial etiology of MAS and compared the genomic features of A. hydrophila and A. dhakensis. We collected 86 isolates from diseased striped catfish fingerlings over 5 years from eight provinces in Vietnam. Species identification was done using PCR, MALDI-TOF and whole genome sequence (WGS). The MICs of commonly used antimicrobials was established. Thirty presumed A. hydrophila isolates were sequenced for species confirmation and genomic comparison. A phylogenetic analysis was conducted using publicly available sequences and sequences from this study. Results: A total of 25/30 isolates were A. dhakensis sequence type (ST) 656 and 5/30 isolates were A. hydrophila ST 251. Our isolates and all publicly available A. hydrophila isolates from Vietnam belonged to ST 251 and differed with <200 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP). Similarly, all A. dhakensis isolates from Vietnam belonged to ST 656 and differed with <100 SNPs. The tet(A) gene was found in 1/5 A. hydrophila and 19/25 A. dhakensis. All A. hydrophila had an MIC ≤2 mg/L while 19/25 A. dhakensis had MIC ≥8 mg/L for oxytetracycline. The floR gene was only found in A. dhakensis (14/25) which showed a MIC ≥8 mg/L for florfenicol. Key virulence genes, i.e., aerA/act, ahh1 and hlyA were present in all genomes, while ast was only present in A. dhakensis. Discussion: This study confirms previous findings where A. dhakensis was the dominating pathogen causing MAS and that the importance of A. hydrophila has likely been overestimated. The differences in antimicrobial susceptibility between the two species could indicate a need for targeted antimicrobial treatment plans. The lipopolysaccharide regions and outer membrane proteins did not significantly differ in their immunogenic potentials, but it remains to be determined with in vivo experiments whether there is a difference in the efficacy of available vaccines against A. hydrophila and A. dhakensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticide residues are regularly found in surface water, which could be dangerous for freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity. Pesticides may enter waters through a variety of pathways, but runoff from irrigation or precipitation has the highest quantities. Previous studies analyzing the pesticides pollution or ecological risks of pesticides focused on few regions (e.g., European and United States), whereas analysis of pesticide pollution in Southeast Asia and especially in Vietnam is limited. This study presents an investigation of banned pesticides used across the range of land use in catchments of the Ma river and its tributaries in Thanh Hoa province, Vietnam. Applying principal component analysis (PCA), we investigated the relationship between specific pesticides and land use. Besides, cluster analysis (CA), the method of aggregating monitoring locations, was applied in this study to find spatial pattern of pesticides pollution. Due to their persistence and remobilization during floods and runoff, all ten banned pesticides—eight insecticides (aldrin/dieldrin, BHC, chlordane, endrin, heptachlor, lindane, malathion, and parathion) and two herbicides (paraquat, and 2,4D)—still remain in surface water and are not presumably influenced by the fraction of land use area in the catchments. Clustering results revealed that banned pesticides still occur in some areas. Site TH08 close to Le Mon industrial zone and TH18 in Thanh Hoa city have higher concentrations of banned pesticides than other sites due to their highly toxic and long-time existence in the environment. Overall, our study provides approach to investigate pesticides in surface water for a province in Vietnam that may be used for future ecotoxicological studies to enhance risk assessment for stream ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic use in livestock production is one of the drivers of antibiotic resistance and a shift towards better and reduced antibiotic usage is urgently required. In Vietnam, where there are frequent reports of the misuse and overuse of antibiotics, little attention has been paid to farmers who have successfully changed their practices. This qualitative study aims to understand the transition process of Vietnamese chicken farmers toward reduced antibiotic usage. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 18 chicken farmers, 13 drug sellers, and 5 traders using participatory tools and a socio-anthropological approach. We explored the farmers' histories, current and past antibiotic usage, methods used to reduce antibiotic use, and motivations and barriers to changing practices. Through the thematic analysis of the farmers' transcripts, we identified technical, economic, and social factors that influence change. Out of eighteen farmers, we identified ten farmers who had already reduced antibiotic usage. The main motivations included producing quality chickens (tasty and safe) while reducing farm expenditures. Barriers were related to poor biosecurity in the area, market failures, and the farmers' lack of knowledge. Innovation led to overcome these obstacles included the local development of handmade probiotics and the organization of farmer cooperatives to overcome economic difficulties and guarantee product outlets. Knowledge was increased by workshops organized at the communal level and the influence of competent veterinarians in the area. We showed that the transition process was influenced by several components of the system rather than by any individual alone. Our study demonstrated that local initiatives to reduce antibiotic use in Vietnamese chicken production do exist. As changes depend on the system in which stakeholders are embedded, systemic lock-ins must be removed to allow practices to change. The promotion of locally-developed solutions should be further encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although breastfeeding is practiced by 98% of mothers in Vietnam, infant breastfeeding behaviors remain far from World Health Organization recommendations and continues to decline. This study aims to explore the prevalence and factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of an infant's life. Methods: A cross-sectional study utilized a self-administered maternal questionnaire to collect data on 1072 Vietnamese mothers who brought infants aged between 6 and 30 months to a community health centre (CHC) for routine vaccination. Data collection was conducted from March to May 2021 in two cities in Central and North Vietnam. In order to measure exclusive breastfeeding, we asked mothers to recall (yes / no), if the child had received breast milk, formula, colostrum milk powder, water, vitamin / medicine, fruit juice / honey, and complementary foods aged under six months. Results: In the first six months, 14.2% of mothers exclusively breastfed their infants. Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between exclusive infant breastfeeding and the highest maternal education level (university or postgraduate) (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.55; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10, 5.91); male infants (aOR 1.72; 95% CI 1.11, 2.68); duration of skin-to-skin contact greater than 90 min (aOR 7.69; 95% CI 1.95, 30.38); receiving first breastfeeding during skin-to-skin contact (aOR 2.31; 95% CI 1.30, 4.10); completely feeding infant directly at the breast (aOR 1.65; 95% CI 1.00, 2.71) and exclusive breastfeeding intention during pregnancy (aOR 2.48; 95% CI 1.53, 4.00). When compared with mothers who were prenatally exposed to infant formula advertising classified as "often", the prevalence of exclusive infant breastfeeding was higher in mothers who classified their prenatal exposure to infant formula advertising as "sometimes" (aOR 2.15; 95% CI 1.13, 4.10), and "seldom" (aOR 2.58; 95% CI 1.25, 5.36). Conclusion: The prevalence of mothers who practiced exclusive infant breastfeeding during the first six months in Vietnam was low. Infants should receive early maternal-infant skin-to-skin contact greater than 90 min and complete first breastfeeding during skin-to-skin contact. Further, mothers should be protected against infant formula advertisements to maximise the likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding during the child's infancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Despite improvements in maternal and child health in Vietnam, sustained efforts are required to improve healthcare quality and resolve persistent disparities, highlighting the universal significance of customer satisfaction in healthcare. This study aims to assess patient satisfaction with healthcare services and associated factors at obstetrics-gynecology and pediatric hospitals across different geographical areas in Vietnam.Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019 among 647 patients or caregivers of hospitalized children at three major obstetrics-gynecology and pediatric hospitals, representing different geographical areas in Northern Vietnam. A Ministry of Health-approved satisfaction instrument was utilized to assess patient satisfaction. The instrument included 31 items measuring five dimensions of perceived satisfaction. Exploratory factor analysis examined the construct validity of the satisfaction measurement, and multivariate linear regression determined the factors associated with patient satisfaction.Results: Among the 643 participants, 520 were female (89.87%), and nearly half were aged 18– 29 years old (43.7%). Factor analysis revealed three dimensions: "Competency and Outcomes", "Accessibility and Procedures", and "Facilities and Equipment", with mean domain scores of 4.6 ± 0.43, 4.28 ± 0.67, and 4.53 ± 0.51, respectively. The proportion of participants completely satisfied with overall service quality was 48.52%, and expectation met was 34.53%. Multivariate linear regression indicated that patients from hospitals in the Red River Delta region had higher satisfaction scores than those in the Middle region across all domains (p< 0.05). Higher health insurance coverage was associated with increased satisfaction, while education level, economic status, and ethnicity also influenced satisfaction.Conclusion: The study revealed moderate to high levels of satisfaction among patients at three major obstetrics-gynecology and pediatric hospitals in northern Vietnam. The findings may provide useful evidence for implementing hospital quality control in Vietnam, focusing on patient-centered goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild guava (Psidium guajava L.) commonly grows in tropical forests, and its leaves have long been used by Asian ethnic minorities as herbal tea and traditional medicine. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different drying methods (sun drying, hot air drying, microwave drying, vacuum drying, and freeze drying) on the retention of bioactive compounds, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities of wild guava leaves collected in Vietnam. The results showed that drying methods significantly affected the retention of bioactive compounds, biological activities, and color of guava leaves. The freeze-dried leaves had the highest levels of total phenolic content (173.25 ± 0.68 mg gallic acid equivalent g−1 dw), total flavonoid content (24.46 ± 0.78 mg QE g−1 dw), antioxidant capacity, and in vitro antidiabetic activity compared with others, while sun-dried leaves showed the lowest values of those parameters. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed a strong correlation among biological activities and contents of bioactive compounds, including antioxidant activity, in vitro antidiabetic activity, total phenolic content, and total flavonoid content (r2 = 0.999, p < 0.0001). Specifically, the biological activities strongly and positively correlated epicatechin, rutin, chlorogenic acid, catechin, and gallic acid. Freeze-dried guava leaves had the highest positive scores, followed by hot air-dried, microwave-dried, vacuum-dried, and sun-dried samples. FD treatment sample also exhibited better color and sensory properties than others. Consequently, freeze drying is recommended as the most suitable drying method for preserving the bioactive compounds and sensory characteristics of dried wild guava leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is an inborn error of immunity (IEI) disorder that results from defects in the respiratory burst activity in phagocytes, leading to the inability to kill bacterial and fungal microorganisms. CGD patients usually have a high incidence of morbidity such as infections and autoinflammatory diseases and a high mortality rate. Allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is the only definitive cure for patients who suffer from CGD. Case presentation: We report the first transplant case of chronic granulomatous disease in Vietnam. A 25-month-old boy with X-linked CGD underwent bone marrow transplantation from his 5-year-old, full-matched human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-carrier sibling after myeloablative conditioning regimen with busulfan 5.1 mg/kg/day for 4 days, fludarabine 30 mg/m2/day for 5 days, and rATG (Grafalon-Fresenius) 10 mg/kg/day for 4 days. Neutrophil was engrafted on day 13 posttransplant, donor chimerism was 100% on day 30 with the dihydrorhodamine-1,2,3 (DHR 123) flow cytometric assay test that reached 38% of the normal 45 days posttransplant. Five months after transplant, the patient was free of infection with stable DHR 123 assay at 37%, and donor chimerism remained 100%. No sign of a graft-versus-host disease had been observed posttransplant. Conclusion: We suggest that bone marrow transplantation is a safe and effectual cure for CGD patients, especially for patients with HLA-identical siblings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study evaluated the genetic diversity and investigated the origin of Vietnamese domestic dogs on the basis of genetic data. A total of 56 haplotypes (group of genes inherited together from a single parent), including 14 indigenous ones (two of them have not been previously reported) were observed, with some of them implying that Australian dingo and Polynesian dogs originated from Southeast Asian ones, reinforcing the theory of domestication of dogs to the south of the Yangtze River. In this study, samples from 429 dog individuals across three main regions of Vietnam (Southern Vietnam (SVN), Central Vietnam (CVN), and Northern Vietnam (NVN)) were collected to analyze the 582 bp region mtDNA HVI, so as to study the genetic diversity and to screen the rare haplotype E in the Vietnamese village dog population. Nine new haplotypes A, two new haplotypes B, and three haplotypes C were unique to Vietnam dogs, in which the new haplotypes An3, An7, Cn1, and Cn3 concerned mutations at new polymorphism sites (15,517, 15,505, 15,479, and 15,933, respectively) which have not been previously reported. The detection of haplotypes A9 and A29, and the appearance of haplotype A200 in the two individual dogs sampled support that the Southeast Asian dog is the ancestor of today's Australian dingo and Polynesian dog. The two rare haplotypes E (E1 and E4) were reconfirmed in Vietnamese dogs and discussed. This study also contributes to strengthening the theory of domestication of dogs to the south of the Yangtze River and the Southeast Asian origin of the dingo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper reports the chemical compositions and antimicrobial activity of essential oils from Blumea lacera (Burm. f.) DC., Tridax procumbens (L.) L., and Ageratum houstonianum Mill., of Asteraceae family grown in Vietnam. The essential oils were isolated by hydrodisitllation and analysed by GC and GC/MS. The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and Median inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were measured by the microdilution broth susceptibility assay. The main compounds of B. lacera were germacrene D (25.5%), 2,5-dimethoxy-p-cymene (20.6%), β-caryophyllene (17.9%), thymol methyl ether (6.3%). T. procumbens afforded essential oil whose major constituent was β-pinene (13.4%), while germacrene D (21.3%), α-pinene (19.0%), and β-caryophyllene (8.9%) constitute the bulk of A. houstenianum essential oil. The leaf essential oils of A. houstenianum collected in August (MIC, 8.0 μg/mL) and B. lacera (MIC, 16.0 μg/mL) were the most active against Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, with corresponding IC50 values of 4.00 μg/mL and 5.67 μg/mL, respectively. The essential oil of T. procumbens exhibited the most potent activity towards Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Bacillus cereus ATCC 14579, with MIC value of 32.0 μg/mL and IC50 values of 12.45 μg/mL and 7.89 μg/mL, respectively. Also, both A. houstenianum essential oils collected in August and April displayed antibacterial action against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 with MIC values of of 64.0 μg/mL (IC50, 21.45 μg/mL) and 32.0 μg/mL and (IC50, 15.22 μg/mL). Both B. lacera and T. procumbens showed anti-candidal property with MIC value of 16.0 μg/mL, as well as IC50 values of 5.69 μg/mL and 8.66 μg/mL, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acromioclavicular (AC) dislocation, one of the most common shoulder joint injuries, can be treated by several surgical methods. However, there are still few records about the treatment quality. This study aims to describe the outcomes of three surgical methods for acromioclavicular dislocation treatment at Viet Duc University Hospital, Vietnam. Methods: A crosssectional study was conducted on 80 patients diagnosed with AC.We retrospectively collected data in the medical records and re-examined the patients. Results: There was no difference between the three groups of surgical approaches relating to the patient's characteristics, except for the time from the accident to hospital admission. The median length of stay after surgery was highest in the Hook plate group (median (IQR) = 5(2) days), while it was lowest in the K-wire group (median (IQR) = 3(1) days) (p < 0.05). There is statistical significance in the difference of coracoclavicular distance between pre and post-operation in all three surgical method groups (p < 0.001). Conclusion: All of the methods-- Hook plate, K-wire, and TightRope--were associated with optimistic outcomes and restored initial anatomy. While the three surgical methods are both safe and effective, the K-wire method is associated with a shorter length of stay and might be economical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mosquitoes, in addition to being a biting nuisance, are vectors of several pathogenic viruses and parasites. As a continuation of our work identifying abundant and/or invasive plant species in Vietnam for use as ecologically friendly pesticidal agents, we obtained the essential oils of Blumea lacera, Blumea sinuata, Emilia sonchifolia, Parthenium hysterophorus, and Sphaeranthus africanus; analyzed the essential oils using gas chromatographic techniques; and screened the essential oils for mosquito larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. The most active larvicidal essential oils were B. sinuata, which was rich in thymohydroquinone dimethyl ether (29.4%), (E)-β-caryophyllene (19.7%), α-pinene (8.8%), germacrene D (7.8%), and α-humulene (4.3%), (24-h LC50 23.4 and 29.1 μg/mL) on Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus, respectively, and Emilia sonchifolia, dominated by 1-undecene (41.9%) and germacrene D (11.0%), (24-h LC50 30.1 and 29.6 μg/mL) on the two mosquito species. The essential oils of P. hysterophorus and S. africanus were also active against mosquito larvae. Notably, B. sinuata, P. hysterophorus, and S. africanus essential oils were not toxic to the non-target water bug, Diplonychus rusticus. However, E. sonchifolia essential oil showed insecticidal activity (24-h LC50 48.1 μg/mL) on D. rusticus. Based on these results, B. sinuata, P. hysterophorus, and S. africanus essential oils appear promising for further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When fossil fuel sources such as coal and oil become increasingly depleted, causing severe environmental pollution, countries must accelerate the restructuring of the energy industry towards clean and sustainable. Training in the renewable energy industry is considered an inevitable solution and trend in the current energy industry in Vietnam. This article studies the factors affecting the quality of training in renewable energy at universities in Hanoi city, Vietnam. The study surveyed 485 questionnaires and used the PLSSEM model to test the hypothetical model. The study found six factors: state policies, socio-economic environment, learning environment, training programs, lecturers, and teaching methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Scholarly Project provides medical students with an opportunity to conduct research on a health and health care topic of interest with faculty mentors. Despite the proven benefits of the Scholarly Project there has only been a gradual change to undergraduate medical education in Vietnam. In the academic year of 2020-2021, the University of Medicine and Pharmacy (UMP) at Ho Chi Minh City launched the Scholarly Project as part of an innovative educational program. This study investigated the impact of the Scholarly Project on the research skills perception of participating undergraduate medical students. Methods: A questionnaire evaluating the perception of fourteen research skills was given to participants in the first week, at midterm, and after finishing the Scholarly Project; students assessed their level on each skill using a 5-point Likert scale from 1 (lowest score) to 5 (highest score). Results: There were statistically significant increases in scores for 11 skills after participation in the Scholarly Project. Of the remaining three skills, ‘Understanding the importance of “controls”’ and ‘Interpreting data’ skills showed a trend towards improvement while the ‘Statistically analyse data’ skill showed a downward trend. Conclusion: The Scholarly Project had a positive impact on each student’s perception of most research skills and should be integrated into the revamped undergraduate medical education program at UMP, with detailed instruction on targeted skills for choosing the optimal study design and follow-up assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mutations in the BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) capsid accumulate in kidney transplant (KTx) recipients with persistent virus replication. They are associated with neutralization escape and appear to arise as a result of cytosine deamination by host cell APOBEC3A/B enzymes. To study the mutagenic processes occurring in patients, we amplified the typing region of the VP1 gene, sequenced the amplicons to a depth of 5000–10,000×, and identified rare mutations, which were fitted to COSMIC mutational signatures. Background mutations were identified in amplicons from plasmids carrying the BKPyV genome and compared to mutations observed in 148 samples from 23 KTx recipients in France and in Vietnam. Three mutational signatures were consistently observed in urine, serum, and kidney biopsy samples, two of which, SBS2 and SBS13, corresponded to APOBEC3A/B activity. In addition, a third signature with no known etiology, SBS89, was detected both in patient samples, and in cells infected in vitro with BKPyV. Quantitatively, APOBEC3A/B mutation rates in urine samples were strongly correlated with urine viral load, and also appeared to vary between individuals. These results confirm that APOBEC3A/B is a major, but not the only, source of BKPyV genome mutations in patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to authenticate the geographical origin of imported fresh apples using isotopic techniques. The results show that the correlation between δ2H and δ18O of water from the US and Australian apples imported to Vietnam followed the respective linear evaporation line models. The apple water isotopic compositions of the two countries were distinct. All the apple water lines for each varietal sample from different locations had intersection points on the global meteoric water line for their respective locality. Those values were compared with the isotopic composition of the local meteoric water to authenticate the geographical origin of the apple. Highlights: Authentication of the geographical origin of the apple using isotopic techniques. δ2H and δ18O in extracted water from the US and Australian fresh apples imported to Vietnam were analyzed. Intersection of apple water line with global meteoric water line reflects δ2H, δ18O values of the apple's source water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven known flavonoids were isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction of the 80% ethanol extract of Sanchezia nobilis Hook. f leaves (EASN). The 7 known compounds as hispidulin (4′,5,7-trihydroxy-6-methoxyflavone) (1), hispidulin-7- O - α -galactopyranoside (2), hispidulin-4′- O - β -galactopyranoside (3), hispidulin-7- O - β -galacturonide methyl ester (4), apigenin-7- O - α -glucuronide (5), hispidulin-7- O - α -glucuronide (6), and hispidulin-7- O - β -glucuronide (7), all of which are first records for the Sanchezia genus. The structures of the compounds were confirmed using spectroscopic methods and by comparison with reported data. The antipeptic ulcer and analgesic effects of the extract were also tested in experimental animal models. At a 50 mg/kg/d dose, the ethyl acetate fraction significantly reduced mean ulcer score, gastric volume, and total acidity, and increased gastric pH, while also tending to reduce free acid in comparison with the model group. At a 100 mg/kg/d dose, the ethyl acetate fraction tended to have an analgesic effect. However, a dose of 300 mg/kg/d showed a significant elevation in pain. The extract was also continuously evaluated for subchronic toxicity for 28 days in rats but showed no effect at oral doses of 50 and 250 mg/kg/d. The results of this study have provided more scientific evidence for the chemical composition and use of SNF leaves to treat peptic ulcer disease in Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the results of a survey done in 2019 to collect information on the socioeconomic state of 53 ethnic minorities in Vietnam, as well as some current study findings on economic resources and in the labor market of ethnic minorities, the article aims to provide more solutions for Vietnamese authorities and policymakers in the process of developing and implementing policies for ethnic minority areas. Thereby contributing to the effective and comprehensive promotion of gender equality in ethnic minority areas in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After over 2000 years of spreading into Vietnam, Buddhism has naturally entered the lives of Vietnamese people and established a firm foothold from urban to rural areas throughout the country. Buddhist ethics have also become vital spiritual ideals for the Vietnamese people, having become profoundly engrained in their way of life and thinking. Throughout its approximately two-hundred-year history, Buddhism has demonstrated its presence in almost every sphere of politics, economy, culture, society, and so on, and has had a good influence on all of these elements in Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 5α-reductase-type-2 deficiency (5ARD2) is a rare autosomal recessive 46,XY disorder of sex development caused by the mutated 5α-reductase type 2 (SRD5A2) gene. In this disease, defective conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone leads to variable presentations of male ambiguous genitalia during fetal development. We aimed to examine characteristics of patients presenting with 5ARD2 over a 4 year period. Random urine samples of control and patients with suspected 5ARD2 were collected and urine steroidomic metabolites were measured by Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in the period from 2017 to 2021 at National Children's Hospital, Hanoi Vietnam. 5α- to 5β-reduced steroid metabolite ratio, 5a-tetrahydrocortisol to tetrahydrocortisol (5α-THF/THF), was reviewed by receive operator characteristics (ROC) curve analysis. Molecular testing was offered to 25 patients who were diagnosed with 5ARD2 by GC-MS urinary steroid analysis. Urine steroidomic profiling was conducted for 104 male controls and 25 patients between the ages of 6 months and 13 years old. Twelve of the twenty-five 5ARD2 patients agreed to undertake genetic analysis, and two mutations of the SRD5A2 gene were detected in each patient, confirming the diagnosis. All patients showed a characteristically low ratio of 5α-THF/THF. There was no overlap of 5α-THF/THF ratio values between control and 5ARD2 groups. The ROC of 5α-THF/THF ratio at 0.19 showed 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity for boys between 6 months and 13 years of age. Analysis of the urine steroid metabolome by GC-MS can be used to assist in the diagnosis of 5ARD2. We recommend consideration of random urine steroid analysis as a first-line test in the diagnosis of 5ARD2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study considers the impacts of multi macro factors on stock price of Cu Chi Trading company CCI, and it contributes to promoting business plan and economic policies for economic growth and stabilizing macroeconomic factors. By data collection method through statistics, analysis, synthesis, comparison, quantitative analysis to generate qualitative comments and discussion; using econometric method to perform regression equation and evaluate quantitative results, the article analyzed and evaluated the impacts of six (6) macroeconomic factors on stock price of CCI in Vietnam in the period of 2014-2019, both positive and negative sides. Study results, in a sixfactor model, show that n increase in GDP growth has a significant impact on decreasing CCI stock price (Y) with the highest coefficient of impact, followed by a decrease in lending rate and increase in risk free rate, then a decrease in VNINDEX, a reduction in inflation and increase in exchange rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Under-reporting is a major issue of ADR spontaneous reporting system. This study assesses the knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthcare professionals in Children's Hospital in Vietnam and suggests solutions to enhance ADR reporting rate based on findings. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted and 397 self-administered structured questionnaires were distributed to all potential HCPs working in surveyed hospital within 2 weeks from June 03 to June 20, 2020. Results: Overall response rate was 97% with 384 responses. A majority answered correctly ADRs' knowledge apart from form supplier (1.6%) and possible causes (2.6%). The need to focus on patient care (33.3%) and the trivia of reaction (31.5%) reduced HCPs' attention. About 61.7% reported once in their career, 49.7% had training. Having trained group had numbers of practice significantly higher than their counterparts. Major reason for not reporting was lack of information and instruction. Preferred solutions were regularly training, updating, and collaboration of HCPs in reporting ADR. Conclusion: Healthcare professionals had adequate knowledge, positive attitude, and moderate practice. Training significantly raised the number of practices in reporting ADR. Preferred solutions were regular training, updating, and collaboration of healthcare professionals in ADR reporting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Verbascoside is isolated from the whole plants of the Verbenaceae family and demonstrates significant levels of bioactivity. In this work, we report on the isolation of verbascoside, a phenolic glycoside, from the stems of Clerodendrum inerme collected in Vietnam and verify its structure by comparing its spectroscopic data with those reported in the literature. Verbascoside is then applied as a monomer for the electrochemical deposition of a layer of polyverbascoside onto glassy carbon electrodes toward Cu2+ sensing. Electrochemical results demonstrate that the polyverbascoside-modified glassy carbon electrode is highly selective for Cu2+ ions compared to other evaluated ions including Ni2+ and Co2+. The developed sensor can detect Cu2+ in a concentration range from 0 to 175 μM with a sensitivity of 0.372 µA µM−1 and a limit of detection of 50 nM Cu2+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most biologically natural compounds are very sensitive and easily degradable under drying conditions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of drying temperature on the contents of phenolic compounds and in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of wild guava leaves. Wild guava leaves were dried at 40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C, 70 °C, and 80 °C, as well as sun drying (SD). The total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC) were measured using the colorimetric method. Antioxidant activity was determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl hydrate (DPPH) and 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activity assays. In vitro antidiabetic activity was measured by assessing α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities. The contents of individual phenolic compounds were determined using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). The principal component analysis (PCA) results revealed that hot air drying at different temperatures had significantly different effects on the bioactive compounds and biological properties of guava leaves. Drying at high or low temperatures resulted in a higher degradable rate of bioactive compounds leading to a weakening of the biological properties. Drying at 50 °C resulted in high TPC and TFC as well as the highest in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. Furthermore, the highest contents of gallic acid, catechin, rutin, quercetin, apigenin, quercitrin, vitexin, and apigenin-7- O -D-glucopyranoside were found in samples dried at 50 °C, whereas the highest contents of chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, and ellagic acid were observed in samples dried at 60 °C. Therefore, drying at 50 °C was the suitable temperature for retaining valuable biological compounds in wild guava leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seventy percent of tuberculosis (TB) cases in the United States occur among non-US-born persons; cases usually result from reactivation of latent TB infection (LTBI) likely acquired before the person's US arrival. We conducted a prospective study among US immigrant visa applicants undergoing the required overseas medical examination in Vietnam. Consenting applicants >15 years of age were offered an interferon-γ release assay (IGRA); those 12-14 years of age received an IGRA as part of the required examination. Eligible participants were offered LTBI treatment with 12 doses of weekly isoniazid and rifapentine. Of 5,311 immigrant visa applicants recruited, 2,438 (46%) consented to participate; 2,276 had an IGRA processed, and 484 (21%) tested positive. Among 452 participants eligible for treatment, 304 (67%) initiated treatment, and 268 (88%) completed treatment. We demonstrated that using the overseas medical examination to provide voluntary LTBI testing and treatment should be considered to advance US TB elimination efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Amoxicillin-resistant Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) strains seem to have increased over time in Vietnam. This threatens the effectiveness of H. pylori eradication therapies with this antibiotic. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of primary resistance of H. pylori to amoxicillin and to assess its association with pbp1A point mutations in Vietnamese patients. Materials and methods: Naive patients who presented with dyspepsia undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were recruited. Rapid urease tests and PCR assays were used to diagnose H. pylori infection. Amoxicillin susceptibility was examined by E-tests. Molecular detection of the mutant pbp1A gene conferring amoxicillin resistance was carried out by real-time PCR followed by direct sequencing of the PCR products. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using the Tamura-Nei genetic distance model and the neighbor-joining tree building method. Results: There were 308 patients (46.1% men and 53.9% women, p = 0.190) with H. pylori infection. The mean age of the patients was 40.5 ± 11.4 years, ranging from 18 to 74 years old. The E-test was used to determine the susceptibility to amoxicillin (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ≤ 0.125 μg/ml) in 101 isolates, among which the rate of primarily resistant strains to amoxicillin was 25.7%. Then, 270 sequences of pbp1A gene fragments were analysed. There were 77 amino acid substitution positions investigated, spanning amino acids 310–596, with the proportion varying from 0.4 to 100%. Seven amino acid changes were significantly different between amoxicillin-sensitive (AmoxS) and amoxicillin-resistant (AmoxR) samples, including Phe366 to Leu (p < 0.001), Ser414 to Arg (p < 0.001), Glu/Asn464–465 (p = 0.009), Val469 to Met (p = 0.021), Phe473 to Val (p < 0.001), Asp479 to Glu (p = 0.044), and Ser/Ala/Gly595–596 (p = 0.001). Phylogenetic analyses suggested that other molecular mechanisms might contribute to amoxicillin resistance in H. pylori in addition to the alterations in PBP1A. Conclusions: We reported the emergence of amoxicillin-resistant Helicobacter pylori strains in Vietnam and new mutations statistically associated with this antimicrobial resistance. Additional studies are necessary to identify the mechanisms contributing to this resistance in Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the performance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with bacterial culture for the diagnosis of neonatal bacterial meningitis (NBM). Method: The CSF analysis of neonate with confirmed bacterial meningitis was performed with PCR and bacterial culture, and results were compared. Result: Among 24 neonates, the pathogens Identified included E. coli K1, GBS, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Listeria. PCR identified 20 (83.3%) pathogens, and culture 4 (16.7%) pathogens. Prior antibiotics were administered to 20 (83.3%) neonates in whom PCR identified 17 (85%) and culture 3 (15%) pathogens. Conclusion: CSF PCR had a higher yield of pathogens than CSF culture in confirmed neonatal bacterial meningitis with a high rate of prior antibiotic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical pharmacists have an important role in inter-professional healthcare collaboration for epilepsy management. However, the pharmacy practices of managing epilepsy are still limited in Vietnam, deterring pharmacists from routine adjustments of antiepileptic drugs, which could decrease the patients' quality of life. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of pharmacist interventions in epilepsy treatment at a Vietnamese general hospital. Methods: A before-and-after study was conducted from January 2016 to December 2018. All patients with a diagnosis of epilepsy and being treated at the investigated hospital were recruited and screened for eligibility and exclusion criteria. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients in good control of their epilepsy (with two seizures or less in a year). The secondary outcome was the number of patients maintaining optimized concentrations within the therapeutic range of carbamazepine (4–12 mg/L), phenytoin (10–20 mg/L), or valproic acid (50–100 mg/L). Collected data were analyzed using two proportions Z-test or Chi-square test. Results: A total of 141 participants were enrolled in the study. While most patients were given lower prescribed daily doses than the recommendations from the World Health Organization, over 56% of the participants still experienced adverse drug effects. More than half of the patients received at least one pharmacists' intervention, which increased by 25.0% the effectiveness of the therapy (p < 0.001) and by 14.6% the number of patients with optimized drug concentrations (p = 0.018). Conclusion: Epilepsy management requires a multiple-stepped and comprehensive approach, with a focus on the health and safety of the patients. As part of the healthcare team, pharmacists need to engage at every stage to monitor the patient's response and determine the most effective treatment with the fewest adverse drug reactions. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04967326. Registered July 19, 2021—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04967326 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The increasing prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is a growing problem globally, particularly in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs). Previous studies have shown high rates of CRE colonisation among patients at hospitals in LMICs, with increased risk of hospital-acquired infections. Methods: We isolated carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) from faecal samples collected in 2017 from patients at admission and discharge at a Vietnamese neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). 126 CRKP were whole-genome sequenced. The phylogenetic relationship between the isolates and between clinical CRKP isolates collected in 2012–2018 at the same hospital were investigated. Results: NDM-type carbapenemase-(61%) and KPC-2-encoding genes (41%) were the most common carbapenem resistance genes observed among the admission and discharge isolates. Most isolates (56%) belonged to three distinct clonal clusters of ST15, carrying blaKPC-2, blaNDM-1 and blaNDM-4, respectively. Each cluster also comprised clinical isolates from blood collected at the study hospital. The most dominant ST15 clone was shown to be related to isolates collected from the same hospital as far back as in 2012. Conclusions: Highly resistant CRKP were found colonising admission and discharge patients at a Vietnamese NICU, emphasising the importance of continued monitoring. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a population of CRKP consisting mostly of ST15 isolates in three clonally related clusters, each related to blood isolates collected from the same hospital. Furthermore, clinical isolates collected from previous years (dating back to 2012) were shown to likely be clonally descended from ST15 isolates in the largest cluster, suggesting a successful hospital strain which can colonise inpatients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between age and seroprevalence can be used to estimate the annual attack rate of an infectious disease. For pathogens with multiple serologically distinct strains, there is a need to describe composite exposure to an antigenically variable group of pathogens. In this study, we assay 24,402 general-population serum samples, collected in Vietnam between 2009 to 2015, for antibodies to eleven human influenza A strains. We report that a principal components decomposition of antibody titer data gives the first principal component as an appropriate surrogate for seroprevalence; this results in annual attack rate estimates of 25.6% (95% CI: 24.1% – 27.1%) for subtype H3 and 16.0% (95% CI: 14.7% – 17.3%) for subtype H1. The remaining principal components separate the strains by serological similarity and associate birth cohorts with their particular influenza histories. Our work shows that dimensionality reduction can be used on human antibody profiles to construct an age-seroprevalence relationship for antigenically variable pathogens. Multi-strain pathogens, such as influenza, present challenges for interpretation of seroprevalence data as estimates may vary by strain. Here, the authors develop a method for estimating age-specific seroprevalence based on principal components analysis and apply it to influenza data from Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extract from Celastrus hindsii (C. hindsii), a plant that naturally grows in the forests of several provinces of Vietnam, has been traditionally used as an alternative medicine for the treatment of inflammation because of its anticancer and antitumor properties. This study reported the green synthesis of stable gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) derived from HAuCl4 using the extract of C. hindsii as reducing and capping agents. Their particle size could be controlled by adjusting the ratio of the extract to HAuCl4 solution used (1.25%, 2.5%, 3.75%, 5.0%, and 6.25%). The optimal ratio of the extract was 3.75% (Au-NPs-3.75%). The X-ray powder diffraction analysis demonstrated that the Au-NPs was successfully synthesized. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy result indicated the possible presence of phenolic acids and flavonoids (acting as reducing agents and potential natural antioxidants). Transmission electron microscopy images showed that the particle diameter of Au-NPs-3.75% varied between 13 and 53 nm (average: ∼30 nm) in its spherical shape. The biosynthesized Au-NPs-3.75% exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity against HeLa cells, and the inhibitory concentration (IC50) was 12.5 µg/mL at 48 h. Therefore, Au-NPs that were synthesized from environmentally friendly method without the presence of potentially toxic chemicals were highly possible in biomedical applications. Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles from the Celastrus hindsii extract and its application for anticancer activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neonatal diabetes mellitus (NDM) is defined as insulin-requiring persistent hyperglycemia occurring within the first 6 months of life, which can result from mutations in at least 25 different genes. Activating heterozygous mutations in genes encoding either of the subunits of the ATP-sensitive K+ channel (KATP channel; KCNJ11 or ABCC8) of the pancreatic beta cell are the most common cause of permanent NDM and the second most common cause of transient NDM. Patients with NDM caused by KATP channel mutations are sensitive to sulfonylurea (SU) treatment; therefore, their clinical management can be improved by replacing insulin with oral agents. Patients and Methods: Seventy patients were diagnosed with NDM between May 2008 and May 2021 at Vietnam National Children's Hospital, and molecular genetic testing for all genes known to cause NDM was performed at the Exeter Genomic Laboratory, UK. Patients with ABCC8 or KCNJ11 mutations were transferred from insulin to oral SU. Clinical characteristics, molecular genetics, and annual data relating to glycemic control, SU dose, severe hypoglycemia, and side effects were collected. The main outcomes of interest were SU dose, SU failure (defined as permanent reintroduction of daily insulin), and glycemic control (HbA1c). Results: Fifty-four of 70 patients (77%) with NDM harbored a genetic mutation and of these; 27 (50%) had activating heterozygous mutations in ABCC8 or KCNJ11. A total of 21 pathogenic mutations were identified in the 27 patients, including 13 mutations in ABCC8 and 8 mutations in KCNJ11. Overall, 51% had low birth weight (below 3rd percentile), 23 (85%) were diagnosed before 3 months of age, and 23 (85%) presented with diabetic ketoacidosis. At diagnosis, clinical and biochemical findings (mean ± SD) were pH 7.16 ± 0.16; HC O 3 − , 7.9 ± 7.4 mmol/L; BE, −17.9 ± 9.1 mmol/L; HbA1C, 7.98% ± 2.93%; blood glucose, 36.2 ± 12.3 mmol/L; and C-peptide median, 0.09 (range, 0–1.61 nmol/l). Twenty-six patients were successfully transferred from insulin to SU therapy. In the remaining case, remission of diabetes occurred prior to transfer. Glycemic control on SU treatment was better than on insulin treatment: HbA1c and blood glucose level decreased from 7.58% ± 4.63% and 19.04 ± 14.09 mmol/L when treated with insulin to 5.8 ± 0.94% and 6.87 ± 3.46 mmol/L when treated with SU, respectively. Conclusions: This is the first case series of NDM patients with ABCC8/KCNJ11 mutations reported in Vietnam. SU is safe in the short term for these patients and more effective than insulin therapy, consistent with all studies to date. This is relevant for populations where access to and cost of insulin are problematic, reinforcing the importance of genetic testing for NDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of the economic and social development, the need for travelling has become indispensable in the everyday life of many people, particularly those who live in developed countries. With the global trends, Vietnam's economy is undergoing a transformation from an economy that mainly focused on agriculture to Industrial-Service-Agricultural Economics. Therefore, it is very essential for Vietnam to apply sustainable development to the tourism industry. Tourism is a general economy, whose development is deeply dependent on the environment and natural resources; tourism and sustainable development have impacts on each other. For that matter, tourism sustainability cannot be separated from sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential oils from the leaves of Vernonia patula (Dryand.) Merr. and Grangea maderaspatana (L.) Poir. collected from Pu Hoat Nature Reserve, Nghe An Province were studied for their chemical constituents and antimicrobial activity. The main constituents of V. patula were the sesquiterpenes namely β-caryophyllene (28.5 %), caryophyllene oxide (16.6 %), α-copaene (9.0 %), and α-humulene (7.1 %). On the other hand, a mixture of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons represented by myrecene (27.7 %), α-humulene (19.7 %), and germacrene D (15.8 %) were the main compounds of essential oils from the leaves of G. maderaspatana. Both essential oils displayed antimicrobial activity against the tested Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria with the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) less than 50.0 μg/mL (8.67-24.56 μg/mL). The leaf essential oil of V. patula was the most potent towards Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 299212) with MIC value of 8.67 μg/mL. The essential oils also showed anti-candidal properties with MIC values of 15.99 μg/mL (V. patula) and 65.67 μg/mL (G. maderaspatana). The chemical components and antimicrobial activity of the V. patula leaf essential oil was reported for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The official implementation of clinical pharmacy in Vietnam has arrived relatively late, resulting in various stressors. This study aims to evaluate job stress level and suggest viable solutions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on clinical pharmacists (CPs) in 128 hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). Job stress questions were derived from the Healthcare Profession Stress Inventory (HPSI). Results: A total of 197 CPs participated, giving a response rate of 82.4%. Participants were found to have moderate job stress with an overall mean stress score of 1.5 (0.4) and stress rate of 52.8%. The sample size was statistically adequate and the HPSI was valid and reliable. Patient care responsibility was the main stressor, especially in public hospitals, followed by job conflicts. Lack of experience, low income, and inability to participate in clinical ward rounds caused significant stress to CPs regarding job recognition and job uncertainty. More practice-oriented training programs in bachelor curricula and clinical practice should be applied to help CPs gain more experience, self-confidence, and diminish job stress. Conclusion: CPs in HCMC have moderate stress. More practice-oriented training programs should be prioritized to lessen stress for CPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) in Vietnam pioneered the practice of clinical pharmacy; however, hospitals in HCMC have faced numerous challenges that might influence the job satisfaction of clinical pharmacists (CPs). Additionally, there have been no official statistics about clinical pharmacy activities that have been reported so far. Therefore, this study was conducted to examine the current status of the clinical pharmacy profession and to analyze the key factors affecting job satisfaction of CPs in HCMC. This was a cross-sectional study. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to all the CPs in all the 128 hospitals in HCMC via an online survey tool from May to June 2020. Only about 30% of the respondents were full-time CPs. The percentage of CPs participating in clinical wards was relatively low (52.79%). "Provide drug information for patients and medical employees" was the most common clinical pharmacy activity, with the percentage of CPs participating in it being nearly 90%. Overall, 74.1% of the 197 CPs surveyed were satisfied with their current job. The factors that they were satisfied with the most and the least were "Inter & Intra professional relationships" (95.9%) and "Income" (59.9%), respectively. The only demographic and work-related characteristic that had a statistically significant association with overall job satisfaction was "Ward round participation". Most clinical pharmacy tasks noted a high rate of participation from the CPs. Nevertheless, hospitals in HCMC was found to be experiencing a shortage of CPs and low levels of participation of CPs in ward rounds, and most CPs were unable to completely focus on clinical pharmacy tasks. Regarding CPs' job satisfaction-related aspects, income and ward round participation appear to be the two factors that should be increased, in order to enhance CPs' job satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]