Using beta-amyloid specific antibody, Gantenerumab, to slow down cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease
Topic: NEUROLOGY
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on December 1st, 2023
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Previous studies had shown that beta-amyloid specific antibodies can be utilized to halt the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease. However, the degree of clinical benefit is linked to the antibody’s ability of binding and removing the beta-amyloid. Gantenerumab is an antibody that has been proven to have a high affinity to beta-amyloid. Recently, a paper was published in the New England Journal of Medicine reporting the effectiveness of Gantenerumab in managing Alzheimer’s development.
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Alleviating head tremor symptoms with botulinum toxin
Topic: NEUROLOGY
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 29th, 2023
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Head tremor is a common movement disorder with a prevalence of approximately 1%. The disease is more common with old age: the disease prevalence increases to 5% in people above 65 years old. Without an effective treatment, the French Ministry of Health had funded a study to examine the possibility of using Botulinum toxin in managing head tremor.
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Preventing Postoperative Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Recurrence with Durvalumab
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Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
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Posted on November 27th, 2023
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In almost 30% of all non-small-cell lung cancer cases, the disease can be treated by surgically removing the tumor. However, disease recurrence happened in about half of these patients within 5 years of resection. Concurrent usage of chemotherapy had only improved the five-year survival rate by 5%. As a result, many attempts had been made to figure out a better solution, including a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine that assessed the usage of Durvalumab.
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The effect of using proton pump inhibitors in the health of children
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Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
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Posted on November 24th, 2023
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Around 70% of infants aged 3 to 4 months encounter gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD). In more severe instances, the use of proton pump inhibitors becomes necessary to decrease gastric acid secretion. However, altering the stomach's pH may introduce undesired effects. A recent study delves into the potential risks associated with the use of proton pump inhibitors in pediatric patients.
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Investigating the effectiveness of Nemolizumab, an IL-33 inhibitor, to treat prurigo nodularis
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Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
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Posted on November 22nd, 2023
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Prurigo nodularis, a persistent skin condition influenced by type 2 and type 17 helper T-cells (Th2 and Th17), has seen success with Dupilumab as an initial treatment, given its capacity to hinder IL-4 and IL-17 signaling. Since IL-33, a cytokine released by Th2 cells, is another prospective therapeutic target, a study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Nemolizumab, an inhibitor of IL-33, in managing prurigo nodularis.
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Assessing the Efficacy of Convalescent Plasma in COVID-19-induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Topic: COVID-19
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 20th, 2023
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Convalescent plasma containing anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, isolated from people previously affected with COVID-19, had been proven to be an effective treatment. However, little is known about the effect of the treatment on patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. A study funded by the Belgian Health Care Knowledge Center was conducted to assess the effectiveness of convalescent plasma in treating COVID-19 induced acute respiratory distress syndrome.
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Patisiran in Transthyretin Amyloidosis: A Promising Intervention for Cardiac Health and Quality of Life
Topic: CARDIOLOGY
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 17th, 2023
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Transthyretin amyloidosis, stemming from the misfolding of the TTR protein, is a potentially lethal condition associated with cardiomyopathy leading to an average survival time of 2 to 6 years. Patisiran, an RNA interference agent, has the capability to bind to the TTR protein, facilitating its clearance. Consequently, a study was undertaken to explore the therapeutic impact of Patisiran on transthyretin amyloidosis.
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Evaluating Tarlatamab as a Treatment for Recurrent Small-Cell Lung Cancer
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 15th, 2023
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Small-cell lung cancer is known for its aggressive nature and tendency to recur even after initial treatment. Secondary therapy options are limited, with existing treatments demonstrating relatively low effectiveness. Tarlatamab, a bispecific T-cell engager, works by enhancing the detection of cancer cells expressing DLL-3 by the patient's T-cells, thereby increasing the likelihood of destroying these cancer cells. Amgen, a pharmaceutical company, sponsored a study to evaluate the effectiveness of Tarlatamab as a treatment for small-cell lung cancer.
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Potential usage of the anti-inflammatory effect of Simvastatin in COVID-19 patients
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 13th, 2023
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Severe SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with extreme inflammation of the respiratory tract that can be lethal if left unmanaged. Simvastatin is a lipid-lowering medication that exhibits anti-inflammatory effect and has been shown to be beneficial for patients affected with acute respiratory distress syndrome with hyperinflammation. Thus, a study was conducted to assess whether simvastatin can be useful in treating COVID-19.
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Supplementing inhaled amikacin to prevent respiratory infection in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 10th, 2023
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Due to the invasive nature of mechanical ventilation, it frequently increases the risk of respiratory infection that can be fatal. It is possible that antibiotic prophylaxis could be prescribed to these patients to prevent infection. Following this rationale, the French Ministry of Health had sponsored a study to assess the effectiveness of using inhaled amikacin to prevent respiratory infection in patients who were undergoing mechanical ventilation.
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Adding Vancomycin to the Antimicrobial Prophylaxis Regimen of Cefazolin for patients undergone Arthroplasty
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 8th, 2023
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Arthroplasty surgeries to replace or modify knee and hip joints are increasingly common as the population ages. During arthroplasty, first and second cephalosporins, such as cefazolin, are often used to prevent infections. However, with the rise of nosocomial infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), there is a need for more effective prophylaxis. To address this concern, the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council sponsored a study to assess the effectiveness of adding vancomycin to the prophylaxis regimen for patients undergoing arthroplasty surgery.
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Comparing the Efficacy of Enzalutamide, Leuprolide, and Their Combination in Treating Biochemical Recurrent Prostate Cancer
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 6th, 2023
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Previous surveillance studies had observed that disease recurrence occurs in approximately 50% of prostate cancer patients who received chemotherapy. This disease recurrence is characterized by an increase in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, and the degree of increase is inversely associated with survival. To address this issue, a study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Enzalutamide, an androgen receptor inhibitor, and Leuprolide, a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist, in treating recurrent prostate cancer.
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Improving Clinical Outcomes in End-Stage Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation with Catheter Ablation
Topic: CARDIOLOGY
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 3rd, 2023
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Previous myocardial infarction could have caused cell death that can interfere with the normal circulation of blood. This cardiac dysfunction is referred to as heart failure and the interruption of normal electrical conduction can result in atrial fibrillation. Thus, a study was conducted to examine whether the removal of dead tissue with catheter ablation can help improve the clinical outcome of patients with end-stage heart failure and atrial fibrillation.
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Effectiveness of Saw Palmetto Extract in Managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Topic: UROLOGY
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 1st, 2023
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Saw Palmetto has been widely marketed as an herbal remedy for the treatment and prevention of benign prostatic hyperplasia in older males. While its usage is prevalent globally, there has been a lack of scientific research to substantiate its effectiveness. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2006 had investigated the efficacy of saw palmetto in managing and preventing benign prostatic hyperplasia.
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Evaluating the Efficacy of Dexamethasone in Treating Tuberculous Meningitis in HIV-Positive Adults
Topic: INFECTIOUS DISEASE
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 30th, 2023
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Tuberculous meningitis poses a significant threat to individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), as it is both highly prevalent and life-threatening. Previous research had established the potential clinical benefits of using dexamethasone to mitigate the cerebral inflammation induced by the tuberculosis bacteria. Consequently, a study was undertaken to assess the efficacy of dexamethasone as a treatment for tuberculous meningitis in HIV-positive adults.
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Investigating Universal Decolonization in Long-Term Care Facilities to Reduce Infection Risk
Topic: INFECTIOUS DISEASE
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 27th, 2023
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Residents of long-term care facilities are at a higher risk of infection due to their old age, and comorbidities. In addition, previous surveillance had shown that the prevalence of multidrug resistance organisms was 4 to 6 times higher in the nursing home setting than in hospital. Thus, a study was conducted to investigate the potential benefit of universal decolonization can reduce the risk of infection and need for hospitalization
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Evaluating Sarilumab for Polymyalgia Rheumatica Treatment in Older Adults
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Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
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Posted on October 25th, 2023
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Polymyalgia rheumatica, an autoimmune disease primarily affecting individuals over 50 years old, has its root in inflammation triggered by interleukin-6 (IL-6). Current treatment relies on glucocorticoids like prednisone and immunosuppressants such as methotrexate, but these approaches come with side effects and do not offer lasting remission. To address this, a study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of Sarilumab, an antibody capable of binding to IL-6 receptors, in the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica.
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Comparing Esketamine and Quetiapine in Treating Treatment-Resistant Depression
Topic: PSYCHIATRY
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 23rd, 2023
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Between 10% and 30% of all cases of major depressive disorder are resistant to common treatments in the form of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). Esketamine and Quetiapine are two other alternative treatments. A study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of using Esketamine with SSRI and SNRI in treating depression.
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Solanezumab's Impact on Beta-Amyloid and Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer's Disease Management
Topic: NEUROLOGY
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 20th, 2023
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The accumulation of defective beta-amyloid in the brain of patients with Alzheimer’s disease interferes with neurotransmission and leads to the clinical manifestations associated with the condition. Thus, clearance of these beta-amyloid plaques can potentially revert the symptoms. Thus, the National Institute on Aging had sponsored a study to investigate the effect of solanezumab in managing Alzheimer’s disease.
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Assessing Edoxaban for Stroke Prevention in patients with Atrial High-Rate Episodes
Topic: CARDIOLOGY
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 18th, 2023
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Oral anticoagulants are commonly used to manage ischemic stroke in atrial fibrillation patients. However, the efficacy of anticoagulants in patients with atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs), a subclinical form of atrial fibrillation, remains uncertain. To address this, the German Center for Cardiovascular Research sponsored a study to investigate the potential benefits of edoxaban in patients with AHREs.
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Assessing Dabrafenib and Trametinib Combination Therapy for Pediatric Glioma with BRAF V600E Mutation
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 16th, 2023
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Glioma is the most common central nervous system tumor in pediatric patients. While resection and chemotherapy have improved the 5-year survival rate to 95%, relapses still occur, necessitating the development of new therapies. About 20% of pediatric low-grade gliomas feature the BRAF V600E mutation. Consequently, a study was conducted to explore whether Dabrafenib, a selective BRAF V600E inhibitor, and Trametinib could offer similar benefits to pediatric patients as they have for adults.
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Exploring the Utility of Fluticasone in COVID-19 Management
Topic: COVID-19
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 13th, 2023
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To combat SARS-CoV-2 infection, antiviral treatments are considered optimal. However, their high cost per dose makes them less practical for low-resource settings. Dexamethasone and budesonide have shown promise in managing acute infections. Fluticasone, another glucocorticoid, can be inhaled to reduce inflammation. Hence, a study was conducted to assess the potential of fluticasone in COVID-19 management.
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Comparing the effectiveness of the new 5th generation cephalosporin, ceftobiprole, to daptomycin in treating S. aureus bacteremia
Topic: INFECTIOUS DISEASE
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 11th, 2023
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As the rate of antimicrobial resistance increased, more cases of multidrug resistance bacteria occurred. Even last resort antibiotics such as methicillin had been nullified; thus, there is a need for new antimicrobial agents. Ceftobiprole is a 5th generation cephalosporin that can interfere with the bacteria wall-forming process. Thus, a study was conducted with the sponsorship of the US Department of Health and Human Services to assess its efficacy in treating bacteremia.
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Utilizing the metabolism effect of Pegozafermin to Address Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 9th, 2023
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As industrialization and economic development have led to an increase in the rate of obesity, metabolic diseases like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have been on the rise in Vietnam. NASH is characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver, leading to inflammation and potential fibrosis. Pegozafermin, a fibroblast growth factor 21, has the potential to enhance fat catabolism. A recent study aimed to investigate whether pegozafermin's metabolic effects could be harnessed for the treatment of NASH.
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Semaglutide's Promising Impact on Heart Failure and Obesity
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 6th, 2023
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Obesity is a contributing factor in the onset and progression of heart failure, exacerbating its symptoms and diminishing the overall quality of life. Semaglutide, a medication originally approved for diabetes management known to induce substantial weight loss, was the subject of a study aiming to investigate whether it could improve clinical outcomes for obese patients with heart failure.
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Using long-term antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent urinary tract infection in pediatric patients with grade III, IV, and V vesicoureteral reflux
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 4th, 2023
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In children diagnosed with moderate-to-severe vesicoureteral reflux, continuous antibiotic therapy is a current practice aimed at lowering the risk of urinary tract infections, which can potentially progress to pyelonephritis and result in kidney scarring. Nevertheless, the prolonged use of antibiotics has the potential to disturb the child's microbiome and contribute to the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. As a result, a study was conducted to assess the advantages and potential risks associated with antibiotic prophylaxis in children diagnosed with grade III, IV, and V vesicoureteral reflux.
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Investigating the potential benefits of ferric carboxymaltose supplementation in patients with heart failure
Topic: CARDIOLOGY
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Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on October 2nd, 2023
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Prior reports had indicated a link between heart failure and iron deficiency, which can worsen patient prognosis. Consequently, efforts have been made to comprehend the underlying mechanism of this connection. Nevertheless, there exists limited agreement on the practical advantages of administering iron supplements. Hence, a study was undertaken to shed more light on the impact of ferric carboxymaltose supplementation on the well-being of individuals with heart failure.
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