Background: This study examined the clinical application of the modified computed tomography severity index (MCTSI) and retroperitoneal extension classification (REC) in the evaluation of acute pancreatitis (AP) among Vietnamese patients. Methods: Data from 115 patients with AP between January 2022 and February 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. AP was diagnosed using the revised Atlanta classification (RAC) criteria. All computed tomography images were assessed by two abdominal radiologists with over 10 years of experience. Patients with AP secondary to blunt abdominal trauma were excluded. Results: The mean patient age was 49.8 ± 16.7 years, and the male:female ratio was 2.7:1. Necrotizing AP was observed in 24.3% of cases and extrapancreatic complications in 35.7%. Pancreatic and peripancreatic fluid collections were noted in 68.7% of cases, including 39.1% with acute peripancreatic fluid collection, 7.8% pseudocyst, 21.7% acute necrotic collection, and 4.3% walled-off necrosis. Based on MCTSI, the rates of mild, moderate, and severe AP were 28.7%, 53.9%, and 17.4%, respectively. Grades I, II, III, IV, and V REC represented 55.7%, 13.0%, 19.1%, 5.2%, and 7.0% of patients, respectively. MCTSI and REC were correlated with RAC in the evaluation of AP severity. Multivariate regression analysis revealed MCTSI to be an independent predictor of severe AP (odds ratio, 2.719; 95% confidence interval, 1.149–6.437; P = 0.023). MCTSI > 7 was the cutoff for predicting severe AP, with a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 86.2%, and area under the curve of 0.944 (P < 0.001). Compared to the non-severe group, those with severe AP according to MCTSI had a longer hospitalization period (11 [9.25–16.75] days vs. 9 [6.50–12.00] days), a higher intensive care unit admission rate (30.0% vs. 3.2%), and greater mortality (15.0% vs. 1.1%). Conclusion In the assessment of AP severity, MCTSI and REC were correlated with RAC. MCTSI was an independent predictor of severe AP.

Background: This study examined the clinical application of the modified computed tomography severity index (MCTSI) and retroperitoneal extension classification (REC) in the evaluation of acute pancreatitis (AP) among Vietnamese patients. Methods: Data from 115 patients with AP between January 2022 and February 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. AP was diagnosed using the revised Atlanta classification (RAC) criteria. All computed tomography images were assessed by two abdominal radiologists with over 10 years of experience. Patients with AP secondary to blunt abdominal trauma were excluded. Results: The mean patient age was 49.8 ± 16.7 years, and the male:female ratio was 2.7:1. Necrotizing AP was observed in 24.3% of cases and extrapancreatic complications in 35.7%. Pancreatic and peripancreatic fluid collections were noted in 68.7% of cases, including 39.1% with acute peripancreatic fluid collection, 7.8% pseudocyst, 21.7% acute necrotic collection, and 4.3% walled-off necrosis. Based on MCTSI, the rates of mild, moderate, and severe AP were 28.7%, 53.9%, and 17.4%, respectively. Grades I, II, III, IV, and V REC represented 55.7%, 13.0%, 19.1%, 5.2%, and 7.0% of patients, respectively. MCTSI and REC were correlated with RAC in the evaluation of AP severity. Multivariate regression analysis revealed MCTSI to be an independent predictor of severe AP (odds ratio, 2.719; 95% confidence interval, 1.149–6.437; P = 0.023). MCTSI > 7 was the cutoff for predicting severe AP, with a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 86.2%, and area under the curve of 0.944 (P < 0.001). Compared to the non-severe group, those with severe AP according to MCTSI had a longer hospitalization period (11 [9.25–16.75] days vs. 9 [6.50–12.00] days), a higher intensive care unit admission rate (30.0% vs. 3.2%), and greater mortality (15.0% vs. 1.1%). Conclusion In the assessment of AP severity, MCTSI and REC were correlated with RAC. MCTSI was an independent predictor of severe AP.

The RET gene point mutation is the main molecular alteration involved in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) tumorigenesis. Previous studies in Vietnam mainly consisted of case reports, with limited data on larger sample sizes. In this study, we investigated RET gene mutations in exons 10, 11, and 16 and analyzed clinicopathological features of a series of Vietnamese MTC patients. Methods: We collected 33 tissue samples from patients with MTC and analyzed RET mutations using the Sanger sequencing method. The relationship between hotspot RET mutations (exons 10, 11, 16) and clinicopathological features were investigated. Results: Among the 33 analyzed cases, 17 tumors (52%) harbored RET mutations in exon 10, 11, or 16. A total of 10 distinct genetic alterations were identified, including eight missense mutations and two short indels. Of these, seven were classified as pathogenic mutations based on previous publications, with p.M918T being the most frequent (4 cases), followed by p.C634R (3 cases) and p.C618R (3 cases). Mutations were significantly associated with specific histological patterns, such as the nested/insular pattern (p=.026), giant cells (p=.007), nuclear pleomorphism (p=.018), stippled chromatin (p=.044), and amyloid deposits (p=.024). No mutations were found in germline analyses, suggesting these were somatic alterations. Conclusions: Our results provided the first comprehensive analysis of RET mutations in Vietnamese MTC patients. The most frequent mutation was p.M918T, followed by p.C634R and p.C618R. Mutations in these three exons were linked to specific histopathological features. Information on mutational profiles of patients with MTC will further aid in the development of targeted therapeutics to ensure effective disease management.

The RET gene point mutation is the main molecular alteration involved in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) tumorigenesis. Previous studies in Vietnam mainly consisted of case reports, with limited data on larger sample sizes. In this study, we investigated RET gene mutations in exons 10, 11, and 16 and analyzed clinicopathological features of a series of Vietnamese MTC patients. Methods: We collected 33 tissue samples from patients with MTC and analyzed RET mutations using the Sanger sequencing method. The relationship between hotspot RET mutations (exons 10, 11, 16) and clinicopathological features were investigated. Results: Among the 33 analyzed cases, 17 tumors (52%) harbored RET mutations in exon 10, 11, or 16. A total of 10 distinct genetic alterations were identified, including eight missense mutations and two short indels. Of these, seven were classified as pathogenic mutations based on previous publications, with p.M918T being the most frequent (4 cases), followed by p.C634R (3 cases) and p.C618R (3 cases). Mutations were significantly associated with specific histological patterns, such as the nested/insular pattern (p=.026), giant cells (p=.007), nuclear pleomorphism (p=.018), stippled chromatin (p=.044), and amyloid deposits (p=.024). No mutations were found in germline analyses, suggesting these were somatic alterations. Conclusions: Our results provided the first comprehensive analysis of RET mutations in Vietnamese MTC patients. The most frequent mutation was p.M918T, followed by p.C634R and p.C618R. Mutations in these three exons were linked to specific histopathological features. Information on mutational profiles of patients with MTC will further aid in the development of targeted therapeutics to ensure effective disease management.

Background: This study examined the clinical application of the modified computed tomography severity index (MCTSI) and retroperitoneal extension classification (REC) in the evaluation of acute pancreatitis (AP) among Vietnamese patients. Methods: Data from 115 patients with AP between January 2022 and February 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. AP was diagnosed using the revised Atlanta classification (RAC) criteria. All computed tomography images were assessed by two abdominal radiologists with over 10 years of experience. Patients with AP secondary to blunt abdominal trauma were excluded. Results: The mean patient age was 49.8 ± 16.7 years, and the male:female ratio was 2.7:1. Necrotizing AP was observed in 24.3% of cases and extrapancreatic complications in 35.7%. Pancreatic and peripancreatic fluid collections were noted in 68.7% of cases, including 39.1% with acute peripancreatic fluid collection, 7.8% pseudocyst, 21.7% acute necrotic collection, and 4.3% walled-off necrosis. Based on MCTSI, the rates of mild, moderate, and severe AP were 28.7%, 53.9%, and 17.4%, respectively. Grades I, II, III, IV, and V REC represented 55.7%, 13.0%, 19.1%, 5.2%, and 7.0% of patients, respectively. MCTSI and REC were correlated with RAC in the evaluation of AP severity. Multivariate regression analysis revealed MCTSI to be an independent predictor of severe AP (odds ratio, 2.719; 95% confidence interval, 1.149–6.437; P = 0.023). MCTSI > 7 was the cutoff for predicting severe AP, with a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 86.2%, and area under the curve of 0.944 (P < 0.001). Compared to the non-severe group, those with severe AP according to MCTSI had a longer hospitalization period (11 [9.25–16.75] days vs. 9 [6.50–12.00] days), a higher intensive care unit admission rate (30.0% vs. 3.2%), and greater mortality (15.0% vs. 1.1%). Conclusion In the assessment of AP severity, MCTSI and REC were correlated with RAC. MCTSI was an independent predictor of severe AP.

The RET gene point mutation is the main molecular alteration involved in medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) tumorigenesis. Previous studies in Vietnam mainly consisted of case reports, with limited data on larger sample sizes. In this study, we investigated RET gene mutations in exons 10, 11, and 16 and analyzed clinicopathological features of a series of Vietnamese MTC patients. Methods: We collected 33 tissue samples from patients with MTC and analyzed RET mutations using the Sanger sequencing method. The relationship between hotspot RET mutations (exons 10, 11, 16) and clinicopathological features were investigated. Results: Among the 33 analyzed cases, 17 tumors (52%) harbored RET mutations in exon 10, 11, or 16. A total of 10 distinct genetic alterations were identified, including eight missense mutations and two short indels. Of these, seven were classified as pathogenic mutations based on previous publications, with p.M918T being the most frequent (4 cases), followed by p.C634R (3 cases) and p.C618R (3 cases). Mutations were significantly associated with specific histological patterns, such as the nested/insular pattern (p=.026), giant cells (p=.007), nuclear pleomorphism (p=.018), stippled chromatin (p=.044), and amyloid deposits (p=.024). No mutations were found in germline analyses, suggesting these were somatic alterations. Conclusions: Our results provided the first comprehensive analysis of RET mutations in Vietnamese MTC patients. The most frequent mutation was p.M918T, followed by p.C634R and p.C618R. Mutations in these three exons were linked to specific histopathological features. Information on mutational profiles of patients with MTC will further aid in the development of targeted therapeutics to ensure effective disease management.

Objectives: The rapid and widespread development of social networking sites has created a potential venue for an increase in cyberbullying among adolescents. While much research has been done on middle school/high school students, this issue for college/university students has yet to receive much attention. The present study described the prevalence of cyberbullying and associated factors among Hanoi Medical University students. Methods: Data were obtained from an online survey of conveniently selected Hanoi Medical University students. A total of 736 students participated and finished a structured questionnaire based on the Cyberbullying Victimization Scale (CVS). Results: The prevalence of cyberbullying victims among Hanoi Medical University students was 17.4%, and 9.0% of the students had engaged in cyberbullying behaviors. Research also indicated that there is an association between cyberbullying behavior and factors such as internet usage duration and frequency of monitoring violent information. Gender didn't have any relationship with cyberbullying victimization but had a significant association with cyberbullying perpetration (OR = 2.37, 95%CI = 1.42 – 3.96). Conclusion: Cyberbullying has become an important phenomenon related to internet usage duration and violent information among students of Hanoi Medical University. Therefore, it is necessary to build healthy internet habits and manage online information to reduce cyberbullying prevalence and promote student health in the digital age.

Background: Patients with beta-thalassemia major are susceptible to malnutrition, yet limited evidence exists in Vietnam. This study aims to identify factors associated with underweight status among adults with beta-thalassemia major in Vietnam. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 201 adults (≥18 years) with beta-thalassemia major. Underweight was defined as BMI < 18.5 kg/m². Logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with underweight status, including age, sex, ethnicity, place of residence, educational level, marital status, and employment status. Results: Over half of the participants (54.2%) were underweight. Female (aOR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.12–0.73, p-value=0.008) and married patients (aOR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.13–0.79, p-value=0.013) were significantly associated with lower odds of underweight status compared to male and unmarried counterparts. Underweight patients had significantly lower fat mass, muscle mass, and bone mineral content, but higher total body water percentage compared to those with normal weight. Conclusion: Underweight status is highly prevalent among adults with beta-thalassemia major in Vietnam, particularly among males and unmarried individuals. These findings underscore the need for targeted nutritional and psychosocial support strategies to improve care and quality of life for this vulnerable population. We recommend implementing tailored nutritional interventions to improve their nutritional status.

Objectives: This study examined the accessibility and utilization of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services among ethnic minority populations in Vietnam’s mountainous regions, with a focus on their perceptions and challenges. Methods: A mixed-methods design was employed, combining a structured survey of 630 adults with semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to capture both utilization patterns and contextual experiences. Results: Most participants were of Thai ethnicity (77%). Commune health stations and district hospitals were the most frequently used facilities, primarily for genital tract diseases, pregnancy, and contraceptive services. Over 80% reported satisfaction with services; however, major barriers included long waiting times, limited transportation, and geographical isolation. Respondents expressed a preference for district-level and private facilities due to perceived higher quality, while residents in remote areas often relied on village midwives for maternal care. Additional challenges included the absence of school health staff and the financial burden on teachers providing basic medical support. Conclusion: Findings highlight both service availability and persistent inequities. Addressing logistical, cultural, and systemic barriers through culturally sensitive policies and programs is essential to improving SRH equity for ethnic minority communities in Vietnam.

This review describes an in-depth analysis of the neurotoxicity associated with the anesthetic agents used during fetal surgery, intending to highlight the importance of understanding the effects of general anesthetics on the developing brain, particularly in the context of open fetal surgery, where high doses are applied to facilitate surgical access and augment uterine relaxation. We examined evidence from preclinical studies in rodents and primates, along with studies in human subjects, with the results collectively suggesting that general anesthetics can disrupt brain development and lead to long-lasting neurological deficits. Our review underscores the clinical implications of these findings, indicating an association between extensive anesthetic exposure in early life and subsequent cognitive deficits. The current standard of anesthetic care for fetal surgical procedures was scrutinized, and recommendations have been proposed to mitigate the risk of anesthetic neurotoxicity. These recommendations emphasize the need for careful selection of anesthetic techniques to minimize fetal exposure to potentially harmful agents. In conclusion, while the benefits of fetal surgery in addressing immediate risks often outweigh the potential neurotoxic effects of anesthesia, the long-term developmental impacts nevertheless warrant consideration. Our analysis suggests that the use of general anesthetics in fetal surgery, especially at high doses, poses a significant risk of developmental neurotoxicity. As such, it is imperative to explore safer alternatives, such as employing different methods of uterine relaxation and minimizing the use of general anesthetics, to achieve the necessary surgical conditions. Further research, particularly in clinical settings, is essential to fully understand the risks and benefits of anesthetic techniques in fetal surgery.