1.Within-household SARS-CoV-2 transmission and vaccine effectiveness in the first three COVID-19 school outbreaks in northern Viet Nam, September–December 2021
Trang Thu Vu ; Tu Huy Ngo ; Khanh Cong Nguyen ; Vu Thi Lan ; Cu Thi Bich Hanh ; Le Hong Son ; Huyen Thi Nguyen ; Hien Thi Nguyen ; Nghia Duy Ngu ; Duong Nhu Tran ; Duc-Anh Dang ; Florian Vogt ; Thai Quang Pham
Western Pacific Surveillance and Response 2024;15(3):19-30
Objective: The risk of transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) from schoolchildren to their household and the protective effects of vaccination in these settings remain poorly understood. We assessed the transmission dynamics of schoolchildren with SARS-CoV-2 within their households and the protective effects of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccination among household members in Viet Nam.
Methods: We estimated the attack rate, vaccine effectiveness and adjusted risk ratio (aRR) of factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 transmission to household contacts of children confirmed to have COVID-19 who attended three schools in Ha Nam, Phu Tho and Thanh Hoa provinces between September and December 2021 using multivariable regression with household-level random effects.
Results: This retrospective cohort study included 157 children infected with SARS-CoV-2 and their 540 household contacts. The attack rate among household contacts was 24.6% (133/540). Overall, vaccine effectiveness among household contacts was 39% (95% confidence interval [CI]: -1 to -63), higher among males than females and higher in adults aged >40 years. COVID-19 transmission was greater among female household contacts compared with males (aRR: 1.35, 95% CI: 0.94 to 1.95), although not statistically significant, and highest among those aged 19–39 years (aRR: 2.51, 95% CI: 1.50 to 4.21). Fully vaccinated household contacts had significantly lower infection risk (aRR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.26 to 0.84).
Discussion: We found substantial onward transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from schoolchildren to household members, and older people were more likely to be protected by vaccination. We recommend that schoolchildren and all household members living with schoolchildren receive at least two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine. Recognizing the role of schoolchildren in the onward transmission of COVID-19 is an important lesson learned by Viet Nam that can help not only in managing other outbreaks but also in protecting schoolchildren by predicting the progress of the outbreak and preparing for a timely response.
2.Successful surgical interventions for a giant and complicated myoepithelial carcinoma: a case report
Quang Vinh VU ; Thanh Tuan HOANG ; Van Anh TRAN ; Thanh Hai TONG ; Hong Ha NGUYEN
Archives of Craniofacial Surgery 2024;25(4):197-200
Ethmoid myoepithelial carcinoma is a rare tumor, with only 14 cases reported to date. This report discusses the largest tumor of this type ever recorded in the ethmoid region. The tumor caused extensive damage to facial structures, complicating treatment. The patient’s age and comorbidities increased the risk of intraoperative bleeding, presenting challenges to the complete removal of the tumor and the reconstruction of the damaged structures. To reduce the risk of intraoperative hemorrhage, shorten the surgery time, and manage potential heartrelated complications, arterial embolization was performed using gelatin sponges and coils. Definitive surgery was then carried out using a skin flap and mucosal flap to successfully reconstruct the defect. Postoperative radiotherapy was deemed unnecessary. The patient recovered well, with a satisfactory aesthetic outcome. No recurrence was observed during a 3-year follow-up period.
3.Suicidal ideation and adverse experiences among adolescents with their separated/divorced parents in Hue city
Thi Tra My TRAN ; Binh Thang TRAN ; Minh Tam NGUYEN ; Nu Hong Duc VO ; Van Thong NGUYEN ; Ngo Bao Khuyen NGUYEN ; Thi Thu Ha PHAM ; Uyen Phuong HO ; Hoang Linh VO ; Thi Thu Tham LUONG ; Tuan Anh HOANG ; Cao Khoa DANG ; Thanh Gia NGUYEN ; Minh Tu NGUYEN
Hue Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2023;13(6):25-
Background: Suicide continues to be a leading cause of death worldwide. Recently, more than 45,000 children in the age group of 10 to 19 years died by suicide, making it the second leading cause of death in the age group of 15 to 19, surpassed only by traffic accidents, tuberculosis, and fighting. Objective: To determine the prevalence of suicidal ideation among adolescents whose parents are separated/divorced; and to explore the factors associated with suicidal ideation and describe adverse experiences among adolescents. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 309 adolescents with separated/separated parents in Hue City. Data was collected through direct interviews using a structured questionnaire. Suicidal ideation was defined as the presence of thoughts or plans related to suicide within the last 12 months. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with suicidal ideation in adolescents with separated/ separated parents. Results: The study found that 15.5% (95% CI:11.7 - 20.1) of adolescents with separated /separated parents reported experiencing suicidal thoughts, in which men accounted 8.4% (95% CI:5.6 – 11.2) and women accounted 7.1% (95% CI:4.5 - 10.6). Several factors were identified as increasing the risk of suicidal ideation, including alcohol use (OR = 3.24; 95% CI:1.42 - 7.42), hyperactivity/inattention (OR = 4.96; 95% CI:1.58 - 15.605), and a poor quality of family relationships (OR = 4.82; 95% CI:1.26 - 18.50). On the contrary, certain factors were found to reduce the risk, including being in the 14-15 age group of 14-15 (OR = 0.26; 95% CI:0.10 - 0.69) and participating in physical activity (OR = 0.44; 95% CI:0.21 – 0.94). Conclusions: The research highlights a significant percentage of adolescents with separated / divided parents who experience suicidal ideation. Therefore, it is imperative for families, schools, and society to develop comprehensive strategies to monitor and address various risky behaviours among students simultaneously.
4.Understanding the COVID-19 Infodemic: Analyzing User-Generated Online Information During a COVID-19 Outbreak in Vietnam
Ha-Linh QUACH ; Thai Quang PHAM ; Ngoc-Anh HOANG ; Dinh Cong PHUNG ; Viet-Cuong NGUYEN ; Son Hong LE ; Thanh Cong LE ; Dang Hai LE ; Anh Duc DANG ; Duong Nhu TRAN ; Nghia Duy NGU ; Florian VOGT ; Cong-Khanh NGUYEN
Healthcare Informatics Research 2022;28(4):307-318
Objectives:
Online misinformation has reached unprecedented levels during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study analyzed the magnitude and sentiment dynamics of misinformation and unverified information about public health interventions during a COVID-19 outbreak in Da Nang, Vietnam, between July and September 2020.
Methods:
We analyzed user-generated online information about five public health interventions during the Da Nang outbreak. We compared the volume, source, sentiment polarity, and engagements of online posts before, during, and after the outbreak using negative binomial and logistic regression, and assessed the content validity of the 500 most influential posts.
Results:
Most of the 54,528 online posts included were generated during the outbreak (n = 46,035; 84.42%) and by online newspapers (n = 32,034; 58.75%). Among the 500 most influential posts, 316 (63.20%) contained genuine information, 10 (2.00%) contained misinformation, 152 (30.40%) were non-factual opinions, and 22 (4.40%) contained unverifiable information. All misinformation posts were made during the outbreak, mostly on social media, and were predominantly negative. Higher levels of engagement were observed for information that was unverifiable (incidence relative risk [IRR] = 2.83; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33–0.62), posted during the outbreak (before: IRR = 0.15; 95% CI, 0.07–0.35; after: IRR = 0.46; 95% CI, 0.34-0.63), and with negative sentiment (IRR = 1.84; 95% CI, 1.23–2.75). Negatively toned posts were more likely to be misinformation (odds ratio [OR] = 9.59; 95% CI, 1.20–76.70) or unverified (OR = 5.03; 95% CI, 1.66–15.24).
Conclusions
Misinformation and unverified information during the outbreak showed clustering, with social media being particularly affected. This indepth assessment demonstrates the value of analyzing online “infodemics” to inform public health responses.
5.Isolation and Cytotoxic Potency of Endophytic Fungi Associated with Dysosma difformis, a Study for the Novel Resources of Podophyllotoxin
Hoa Thi TRAN ; Giang Thu NGUYEN ; Hong Ha Thi NGUYEN ; Huyen Thi TRAN ; Quang Hong TRAN ; Quang Ho TRAN ; Ngoc Thi NINH ; Phat Tien DO ; Ha Hoang CHU ; Ngoc Bich PHAM
Mycobiology 2022;50(5):389-398
Endophytic fungi are promising sources for the production of podophyllotoxin-an important anticancer compound, replacing depleted medical plants. In this study, the endophytes associated with Dysosma difformis-an ethnomedicinal plant species were isolated to explore novel sources of podophyllotoxin. Fifty-three endophytic fungi were isolated and identified by morphological observation and ITS-based rDNA sequencing, assigning them to 27 genera in 3 divisions. Fusarium was found the most prevalent genus with a colonization frequency of 11.11%, followed by Trametes (9.26%) and Penicillium (7.41%). Phylogenetic trees were constructed for the endophytic fungi community in two collection sites, Ha Giang and Lai Chau, revealing the adaptation of the species to the specific tissues and habitats. Cytotoxic activity of endophytic fungal extracts was investigated on cancer cell lines such as SK-LU-1, HL-60, and HepG2, demonstrating strong anti-cancer activity of six isolates belonging to Penicillium, Trametes, Purpureocillium, Aspergillus, and Ganoderma with IC 50 value of lower than 10 10 µg/mL. The presence of podophyllotoxin was indicated in Penicillium, Trametes, Aspergillus and for the first time in Purpureocillium and Ganoderma via high-performance liquid chromatography, which implied them as a potential source of this anticancer compound.
6.Prevalence and risk factors for human papillomavirus infection among female sex workers in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam: a cross-sectional study
Quang Duy Pham ; Kiesha Prem ; Tuan Anh Le ; Nguyen Van Trang ; Mark Jit ; Tuan Anh Nguyen ; Van Cao ; Tam-Duong Le-Ha ; Mai Thi Ngoc Chu ; Ly Thi Khanh Le ; Zheng Quan Toh ; Marc Brisson ; Suzanne Garland ; Gerald Murray ; Kathryn Bright ; Duc Anh Dang ; Hau Phuc Trana ; Edward Kim Mulholland
Western Pacific Surveillance and Response 2022;13(4):1-11
Objective:
Female sex workers (FSWs) are at high risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and cervical cancer due to their high number of sexual partners. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of HPV and identify risk factors for high-risk HPV infection among FSWs in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Viet Nam.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted in Hanoi and HCMC between December 2017 and May 2018. We surveyed and screened 699 FSWs aged ≥18 years for HPV infection and abnormal cytology. A multivariable modified Cox regression model was used to determine risk factors for high-risk HPV infection.
Results
The overall prevalence of any HPV, high-risk HPV and HPV-16/18 infection in the 699 FSWs was 26.3%, 17.6% and 4.0%, respectively, and were similar in both cities. Multiple infections were identified in 127 participants (69.0%).HPV-52 was the most prevalent (7%), followed by HPV-58 (6%). Abnormal cytology was detected in 91 participants (13.0%). FSWs who are divorced (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR]: 1.96, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–3.81), widowed (aPR: 3.26, 95% CI: 1.49–7.12) or living alone (aPR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.01–3.39) were associated with a higher prevalence of high-risk HPV infection.
7.Phenolic Constituents from Balanophora laxiflora with their Anti-inflammatory and Cytotoxic Effects
Nguyen Thi HONG ANH ; Nguyen Thuy DUONG ; Pham Duc VINH ; Do Thi HA
Natural Product Sciences 2021;27(1):49-53
Balanophora laxiflora Hemsl. (Balanophoraceae) is a traditional medicinal plant with a diverse array of biological activities. In our exploration of new bioactive constituents from B. laxiflora, we isolated five compounds, including a new lignan, balanophorone (5), and four known phenolic compounds (1–4). The chemical structures of these compounds were determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses, including 1D and 2D NMR, HR-ESI-MS, and CD. In addition, we evaluated the effects of each of the isolates (1–5) on the messenger RNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages and cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Compound 2 showed significant inhibition of LPS-induced COX-2 and TNF-α expression in RAW 264.7 macrophages, while compound 4 showed moderate cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, with IC 50 values of 18.3 and 30.7 μM, respectively. No significant effects on the viability of normal mammary epithelial cells were observed.
8.Phenolic Constituents from Balanophora laxiflora with their Anti-inflammatory and Cytotoxic Effects
Nguyen Thi HONG ANH ; Nguyen Thuy DUONG ; Pham Duc VINH ; Do Thi HA
Natural Product Sciences 2021;27(1):49-53
Balanophora laxiflora Hemsl. (Balanophoraceae) is a traditional medicinal plant with a diverse array of biological activities. In our exploration of new bioactive constituents from B. laxiflora, we isolated five compounds, including a new lignan, balanophorone (5), and four known phenolic compounds (1–4). The chemical structures of these compounds were determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses, including 1D and 2D NMR, HR-ESI-MS, and CD. In addition, we evaluated the effects of each of the isolates (1–5) on the messenger RNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages and cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Compound 2 showed significant inhibition of LPS-induced COX-2 and TNF-α expression in RAW 264.7 macrophages, while compound 4 showed moderate cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, with IC 50 values of 18.3 and 30.7 μM, respectively. No significant effects on the viability of normal mammary epithelial cells were observed.
9.Diagnostic Accuracy of a Novel On-site Virtual Fractional Flow Reserve Parallel Computing System
Hyung Bok PARK ; Yeonggul JANG ; Reza ARSANJANI ; Minh Tuan NGUYEN ; Sang Eun LEE ; Byunghwan JEON ; Sunghee JUNG ; Youngtaek HONG ; Seongmin HA ; Sekeun KIM ; Sang Wook LEE ; Hyuk Jae CHANG
Yonsei Medical Journal 2020;61(2):137-144
10.The Progression of SARS Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2): Mutation in the Receptor Binding Domain of Spike Gene
Sinae KIM ; Jong Ho LEE ; Siyoung LEE ; Saerok SHIM ; Tam T. NGUYEN ; Jihyeong HWANG ; Heijun KIM ; Yeo-Ok CHOI ; Jaewoo HONG ; Suyoung BAE ; Hyunjhung JHUN ; Hokee YUM ; Youngmin LEE ; Edward D. CHAN ; Liping YU ; Tania AZAM ; Yong-Dae KIM ; Su Cheong YEOM ; Kwang Ha YOO ; Lin-Woo KANG ; Kyeong-Cheol SHIN ; Soohyun KIM
Immune Network 2020;20(5):e41-
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) is a positive-sense singlestranded RNA (+ssRNA) that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The viral genome encodes twelve genes for viral replication and infection. The third open reading frame is the spike (S) gene that encodes for the spike glycoprotein interacting with specific cell surface receptor – angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) – on the host cell membrane. Most recent studies identified a single point mutation in S gene. A single point mutation in S gene leading to an amino acid substitution at codon 614 from an aspartic acid 614 into glycine (D614G) resulted in greater infectivity compared to the wild type SARS-CoV2. We were interested in investigating the mutation region of S gene of SARS-CoV2 from Korean COVID-19 patients. New mutation sites were found in the critical receptor binding domain (RBD) of S gene, which is adjacent to the aforementioned D614G mutation residue. This specific sequence data demonstrated the active progression of SARS-CoV2 by mutations in the RBD of S gene.The sequence information of new mutations is critical to the development of recombinant SARS-CoV2 spike antigens, which may be required to improve and advance the strategy against a wide range of possible SARS-CoV2 mutations.


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