BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are essential for advancing evidence-based healthcare by evaluating the effectiveness and safety of health interventions. Despite the increasing recognition of clinical research, the Philippines has had limited contributions to global RCT output. This bibliometric analysis aims to assess the trends, characteristics, and impact of RCTs conducted in the Philippines and published online.

A systematic search of Medline (PubMed), and EMBASE, along with Acta Medica Philippina, was conducted to identify published RCTs from January 1990 to October 2022. Eligible studies were screened and analyzed based on publication trends, funding sources, study designs, research settings, and institutional contributions. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize key findings.

A total of 391 RCTs were identified, with a notable increase in number of RCTs published over time. Most studies (91.8%) were published in international journals, and funding was primarily sourced from pharmaceutical companies (47.1%). The predominant RCT design was two-arm parallel (64.7%), with hospitals being the most common research setting (54.2%). Research areas were led by infectious diseases, particularly vaccine-preventable illnesses (23.8%). While the University of the Philippines Manila (21.1%) and the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (13.7%) were the leading institutions in terms of highest number of published RCTs, foreign authors accounted for nearly half (47.3%) of primary authorships. The most cited studies focused on cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases, and oncology.

The increasing number of published RCTs in the Philippines reflects growth in research capacity and institutional engagement. Strengthening national research dissemination platforms and fostering regional collaborations will be essential in advancing the Philippines’ contribution to global clinical research.

Purpose: This study aims to examine the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in Hong Kong and to evaluate the association between obesity, glycemic control, and metabolic comorbidities. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from 2022–2023 at the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, enrolling all children with T1DM. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical data were extracted from medical records, and prevalence rates of metabolic complications were compared. Results: One hundred twenty-six children (41% male, 89% Asian) with a median age of 12.8 years were included. Of these, 17.5% were either overweight or obese. There were no significant differences in hemoglobin A1c values between the normal-weight and overweight/obesity groups, though the latter group required higher total daily insulin doses. Children with overweight/obesity had higher prevalence rates of hypertension (28.6% vs. 2.9%) and dyslipidemia (90.5% vs. 71.9%). They were also more likely to have hypertension (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 18.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.42–99.94) and hypertriglyceridemia (aOR, 7.71; 95% CI, 1.66–35.76). The overweight/obese group also exhibited significantly higher alanine aminotransferase levels (median, 18 IU/L vs. 14 IU/L), non–high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (median, 3.3 mmol/L vs. 2.9 mmol/L), and triglyceride/HDL-C ratios (median, 1.09 vs. 0.52) and lower HDL-C levels (median, 1.4 mmol/L vs. 1.6 mmol/L). Among those with dyslipidemia, only 8% were started on lipid-lowering agents, while none of those with hypertension were started on antihypertensive agents. Conclusion Despite a lower prevalence of overweight/obesity in Asian children with T1DM compared to Western populations, metabolic comorbidities occur at an exceptionally high rate. Early interventions to tackle these modifiable cardiovascular risk factors are crucial to prevent long-term complications.

Background/Aims: Esophagogastric junction contractile integral (EGJ-CI) is a metric of EGJ barrier function assessed on high-resolution manometry (HRM). However, its clinical utility may be limited by measurement discrepancies and wide variability. Mean basal EGJ pressure (MBEP) is a novel, simple HRM metric assessing barrier function. We compared their performance to predict conclusive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing esophageal function testing for known or suspected GERD were retrospectively evaluated. MBEP and EGJ-CI were manually calculated. Conclusive GERD was defined as acid exposure time > 6% or histologically confirmed Barrett’s esophagus. Statistical analyses including Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, univariable and multivariable logistic regression were performed. Results: Two hundred and twenty-six patients (mean age 52.8 ± 14.6 years, 58% males) were included. Applying Lyon 2.0 consensus criteria, 41% had conclusive GERD, 8% had borderline GERD, 8% had reflux hypersensitivity, and 43% had no GERD evidence. Patients with conclusive GERD had significantly lower MBEP compared to those without (11.8 mmHg vs 18.5 mmHg; P < 0.001). MBEP showed greater predictive performance for conclusive GERD (area under the ROC curve [AUROC]: 0.71; 95% CI, 0.65-0.78) than EGJ-CI (AUROC: 0.66; 95% CI, 0.59-0.74), also discriminating Lyon 2.0 subgroups (P < 0.001) and EGJ morphology types (P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, MBEP independently predicted conclusive GERD (per 1-mmHg increase OR, 1.11; P = 0.022), while EGJ-CI did not (OR, 0.99; P = 0.207). Conclusions MBEP is a simple HRM metric to evaluate anti-reflux barrier function, predicting conclusive GERD and differentiating reflux phenotypes with better performance than EGJ-CI. This metric could serve as a valuable adjunctive tool in GERD diagnosis.

Purpose: Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) has improved outcomes for acute ischemic stroke (AIS); however, patients with renal failure remain at elevated risk for adverse events. Sex-based differences in outcomes following thrombectomy have been reported in heterogeneous stroke populations, but data specific to renal failure patients are limited. Understanding whether sex influences in-hospital mortality and discharge disposition in this high-risk subgroup is clinically important. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the 2019–2022 National Inpatient Sample to identify renal failure patients undergoing MT for AIS. Patients were stratified by sex. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations between sex and in-hospital mortality and non-routine discharge, adjusting for demographic, socioeconomic, clinical, and hospital-level covariates. Results: The study included 3,280 unweighted hospitalizations (1,675 males; 1,605 females). After adjustment, female sex was independently associated with higher odds of non-routine discharge (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.536, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.391–1.696; P<0.001) but not with in-hospital mortality (adjusted OR 0.953, 95% CI 0.874–1.038; P=0.266). Increasing age and select comorbidities were associated with both outcomes. Conclusion Female sex was associated with increased odds of non-routine discharge but not in-hospital mortality among renal failure patients undergoing MT. These findings support equitable application of thrombectomy across sexes while highlighting the importance of sex-aware discharge planning in this high-risk population.

Primary malignant melanoma of the parotid gland (PMMPG) is an exceptionally rare neoplasm, comprising less than 0.7% of all parotid malignancies and often mistaken for metastatic melanoma. This case presents a 66-year-old man with a painless, slowly enlarging right parotid mass. Imaging revealed a lesion localized to the superficial parotid lobe with FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose)-avid level II lymph nodes. Fine-needle aspiration suggested melanoma, confirmed by immunohistochemistry. The patient underwent total parotidectomy, neck dissection, adjuvant radiotherapy and immunotherapy with pembrolizumab under ongoing oncologic surveillance. Histopathology confirmed melanoma with nodal metastasis and negative margins, with no evidence of local recurrence at 6-month follow-up. Diagnosis of PMMPG demands exclusion of other primary sites and prior excision history, making immunohistochemistry essential. Treatment typically involves surgical resection and radiotherapy; however, prognosis remains poor due to high recurrence and metastasis rates. PMMPG requires a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach. Although aggressive intervention offers the best outcomes, the long-term prognosis is limited. Continued research is essential, particularly focusing on molecular differentiation from clear cell sarcoma and the identification of specific molecular markers that can guide targeted therapy.

Cancer continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, which necessitates the development of more effective and less toxic therapies. Quinoxaline derivatives, a class of heterocyclic compounds with versatile chemical structures, have emerged as promising candidates for anticancer drug development. These derivatives exhibit a range of biological activities and have shown significant efficacy against various tumors. However, the therapeutic potential of quinoxaline derivatives, particularly in clinical applications, remains underexplored, highlighting the need for further research to optimize their use as anticancer agents. This systematic review aims to provide an updated analysis of quinoxaline derivatives’ anticancer potential, focusing on their mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications in oncology. Following PRISMA guidelines, a thorough search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed and Science Direct for studies from 2020 to 2024. Relevant keywords were used to identify studies on quinoxaline derivatives and their anticancer properties, resulting in the selection of 77 studies based on pharmacological activity and mechanisms. The review included 77 studies exploring various anticancer activities of quinoxaline derivatives. Key findings indicate that these compounds effectively inhibit cancer cell growth through multiple mechanisms, including the inhibition of topoisomerases, kinases, and other critical proteins involved in cancer progression. Additionally, they demonstrate strong antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects across several cancer cell lines, highlighting their broad therapeutic potential. Quinoxaline derivatives represent a promising class of compounds in anticancer therapy due to their diverse biological activities and multiple molecular targets. The development of these derivatives as targeted therapies holds the potential for more effective cancer treatments.

Background: Workplace loneliness affects employees’ emotional distress and job performance yet validated measurement tools for Korean workers remain limited. This study aims to translate and validate the Loneliness at Work Scale (LAWS) into Korean. Methods: LAWS was translated according to international guidelines as follows: forward translation, reconciliation, back translation and review, and cognitive debriefing. For validation, 1,000 full-time Korean employees proportionally distributed across sex, age, and occupational type were surveyed in November 2024 with a four-week follow-up (N = 200). Internal consistency and test—retest reliability were examined. The validity of the measure was tested by correlational analyses and confirmatory factor analysis. Results: LAWS-K demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach α overall = 0.936, emotional deprivation = 0.933, social companionship = 0.902) and satisfactory test—retest reliability (r = 0.780).The confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the revised two-factor model provided the best fit (comparative fit index = 0.916, Tucker—Lewis index = 0.897, root mean square error of approximation = 0.126, standardized root mean square residual = 0.045). Correlations with the SingleItem Workplace Loneliness Question (r = 0.612) and the Three-Item Loneliness Scale at Work (r = 0.682) demonstrated strong criterion validity. Correlations with occupational stress (r = 0.531), psychological distress (r = 0.543), work performance (r = -0.337), engagement (r = -0.462), and wellbeing (r = -0.490) supported convergent validity. Conclusion LAWS-K adapted for the Republic of Korea demonstrated robust reliability and validity. It provides Korean researchers and practitioners with a validated tool for assessing workplace loneliness, enabling targeted interventions and research initiatives to address this occupational health concern.

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes, including hypertensive disorders, caesarean delivery, macrosomia, and increased lifetime risk of type 2 diabetes. Despite its clinical importance, considerable international variation exists in GDM screening and diagnostic criteria. Multiple frameworks are currently used, including those from the World Health Organization (WHO), International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups, Carpenter and Coustan, and the National Diabetes Data Group. Differences in glucose thresholds, testing protocols (one-step versus two-step), and universal versus risk-based screening contribute to heterogeneity in reported prevalence and healthcare burden. In multi-ethnic, middle-income settings such as Malaysia, identifying an evidence-informed and contextappropriate diagnostic approach is critical. Methodology: This scoping review follows the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and will be reported in accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect will be searched for English-language studies, reviews, guidelines, and consensus statements reporting GDM diagnostic criteria. Two reviewers will independently screen and select studies. Results: Data will be charted on country, study type, diagnostic criteria, gestational age at screening, and reported challenges. Findings will be synthesized descriptively and presented in tables and figures. No formal risk-of-bias assessment will be conducted. Conclusion This review will provide a comprehensive overview of global diagnostic practices, highlight variations and gaps, and support evidence-based selection of a suitable GDM screening and diagnostic strategy for Malaysia.
Diabetes, Gestational ; Malaysia ; Policy ; Review Literature as Topic

The urgency for climate action is recognised by international government and healthcare organisations, including the United Nations (UN) and World Health Organisation (WHO). Climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution negatively impact all life on earth. All populations are impacted but not equally; the most vulnerable are at highest risk, an inequity further exacerbated by differences in access to healthcare globally. The delivery of healthcare exacerbates the planetary health crisis through greenhouse gas emissions, largely due to combustion of fossil fuels for medical equipment production and operation, creation of medical and non-medical waste, and contamination of water supplies. As representatives of radiology societies from across the globe who work closely with industry, and both governmental and non-governmental leaders in multiple capacities, we advocate together for urgent, impactful, and measurable changes to the way we deliver care by further engaging our members, policymakers, industry partners, and our patients. Simultaneous challenges including global health disparities, resource allocation, and access to care must inform these efforts. Climate literacy should be increasingly added to radiology training programmes. More research is required to understand and measure the environmental impact of radiological services and inform mitigation, adaptation and monitoring efforts. Deeper collaboration with industry partners is necessary to support innovations in the supply chain, energy utilization, and circular economy. Many solutions have been proposed and are already available, but we must understand and address barriers to implementation of current and future sustainable innovations.

Bone and mineral metabolism in the human body undergoes significant adaptations during pregnancy and lactation to meet the physiological demands of both the mother and fetus. The growing fetus requires approx imately 30 g of calcium, with 80% of this transferred from the mother during the third trimester. These adap tations involve complex hormonal changes, such as increased parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, ensuring the mother maintains calcium balance despite fetal demands. However, these changes can also exacerbate pre-existing metabolic bone disorders, presenting unique challenges during preg nancy. This narrative review, framed around illustrative case examples, focuses on the management of metabolic bone disorders in pregnancy. Relevant case studies of hypercalcemia, hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and osteoporosis and chronic kidney disease mineral bone disorder are reviewed to illustrate the biochemical changes, clinical implications, and therapeutic strategies available during pregnancy and lactation. We analyze literature from case reports and existing guidelines to provide practical clinical recommendations. The review highlights critical pregnancy-related metabolic adaptations, such as increased intestinal calcium absorption and skeletal resorption. Disorders like primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and familial hypocalciuric hypercalce mia present significant maternal and fetal risks, including miscarriage, growth restriction, and neonatal com plications. Early identification and tailored treatment, including hydration, parathyroidectomy, and vitamin D supplementation, mitigate these risks, with surgical interventions in PHPT improving pregnancy outcomes compared to conservative management. Management of metabolic bone disorders during pregnancy and lacta tion requires a nuanced approach to meet the dual needs of the mother and fetus.