I. Teaching highlights

1. A reunion of Surgery Program

Dr. Elijah Riddle – Former Program Director of the General Surgery Program paid a trip back to Vietnam as a visiting professor during 13-17 May 2024. During his trip, Dr. Eli implemented various teaching activities with both General Surgery residents and Y4 medical students including but not limited to teaching rounds, teaching in OT, didactic lectures, case presentation, and practical skills simulation session. He also met with CHS leaders and adjunct faculty to discuss clinical education and met with residents to review their individual development plans.

II. Research highlights

1. Prof. Huynh Dinh Chien: Pioneering Medical Education with Innovative English-Vietnamese Dictionary and App

Prof. Huynh Dinh Chien is a testament to dedication and innovation in medical education. For years, Prof. Chien meticulously compiled a comprehensive English-Vietnamese/Vietnamese-English medical dictionary, recognizing the vital need for a bridge between these two languages in healthcare. Their tireless efforts didn''t stop there. Recognizing the potential of technology, Prof. Chien collaborated with colleagues from the computer science department to transform this dictionary into a groundbreaking web and mobile App. This App is specifically designed for students and faculty in health sciences, offering a treasure trove of learning tools. Beyond simply providing definitions, the App features audio pronunciations to ensure accurate terminology usage. Visually inclined learners can benefit from high-quality images associated with each term. For those seeking deeper understanding, the App seamlessly integrates links to Google Search and Wikipedia, allowing users to delve further into specific medical concepts. Prof. Chien''s commitment to accessibility didn''t end there. The App boasts a text reader plug-in that allows users to instantly access the meaning of any highlighted word. This feature makes the App an invaluable companion for on-the-go learning and comprehension. In recognition of Prof. Chien''s groundbreaking work, the Ministry of Culture, Information and Tourism of Vietnam has awarded him a copyright recognition certificate. This not only underscores the significance of their contribution but also paves the way for a more informed and connected future for Vietnamese healthcare professionals.

2. In May, several articles authored by our faculty were published in esteemed journals across various fields. These publications underscore the faculty’s commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation.

Sedarat Z. & Taylor-Robinson A.W. “Helicobacter pylori outer membrane proteins and virulence factors: potential targets for novel therapies and vaccines”. Pathogens 13(5), 392, 2024. 26 pages. doi: 10.3390/pathogens13050392

"A comprehensive analysis of the immune system in healthy Vietnamese people" Dinh Chien Huynh, Minh Phuong Nguyen, Dinh Trung Ngo, Xuan Hung Nguyen, Dac Tu Nguyen, Thi Hien Mai, Thi Huyen Le, Mai Duy Hoang, Khac Linh Le, Khoi Quan Nguyen, Viet Hoang Nguyen, Keith W. Kelley " Available online 5 May 2024 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30647

“Safety, immunogenicity and efficacy of the self-amplifying mRNA ARCT-154 COVID-19 vaccine: pooled phase 1, 2, 3a and 3b randomized, controlled trials”. Nhân Thị Hồ, Steven G. Hughes, Van Thanh Ta, Lân Trọng Phan, Quyết Đỗ, Thượng Vũ Nguyễn, Anh Thị Văn Phạm, Mai Thị Ngọc Đặng, Lượng Viết Nguyễn, Quang Vinh Trịnh, Hùng Ngọc Phạm, Mến Văn Chử, Toàn Trọng Nguyễn, Quang Chấn Lương, Vy Thị Tường Lê, Thắng Văn Nguyễn, Lý-Thi-Lê Trần, Anh Thi Van Luu, Anh Ngoc Nguyen, Nhung-Thi-Hong Nguyen, Hai-Son Vu, Jonathan M. Edelman, Suezanne Parker, Brian Sullivan, Sean Sullivan, Qian Ruan, Brenda Clemente, Brian Luk, Kelly Lindert, Dina Berdieva, Kat Murphy, Rose Sekulovich, Benjamin Greener, Igor Smolenov, Pad Chivukula, Vân Thu Nguyễn & Xuan-Hung Nguyen. Publication of our Vinmec affiliate faculty team on Nature Communications. Published: 14 May 2024

"Factors influencing sexual and reproductive health perceptions among mountainous adolescents in Vietnam" Thi Hoa Huyen Nguyen, Linh Vu Manh, An Nguyen Thi, Hao Mai Thi Thuy, Linh Khanh Bui, Anh Hoang Phuong, Thuan Pham Thi, Tran Quang Duc & Huong Nguyen Thi Thanh. Published online: 17 May 2024 https://doi.org/10.1080/02673843.2024.2353207

"Opioid Therapy for Cancer Pain in Vietnam: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceived Barriers Among Health Care Professionals, Policymakers, and Regulators" Trang Nguyen, Anh Dam, Duong Nguyen, Phuong Tran, Nguyen L.T. Truong, Hao Nguyen, Duong Le, Linh Bui, The Than, Trang Dang, Caroline Phelan, Eric L. Krakauer, Tung Pham. May 09, 2024 https://doi.org/10.1200/GO.23.00463

"Management of osteosarcoma by total knee joint replacement with alt-free flap transfer: Case series" Trần Trung Dũng, Trần Thiết Sơn, Phan Tuấn Nghĩa, Phạm Thị Việt Dung, Tạ Thị Hồng Thuý, Trần Ɖức Thanh, Ɖặng Minh Quang, Lê Thế Hùng, Nguyễn Trần Quang Sáng. Available online 22 May 2024 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sycrs.2024.100025

3. Professors Pranee Liamputtong and David R. Bangsberg''s remarkable accomplishments at VinUniversity in Social Sciences and Humanities, and Medicine, contribute to enhancing the university''s international research reputation.

Research.com, a leading academic platform for researchers, has just released the 2024 Edition of their Ranking of Best Scientists in the field of Social Sciences and Humanities; Medicine. The ranking is based on D-index (Discipline H-index) metric, which only includes papers and citation values for an examined discipline. The ranking includes only leading scientists with D-index of at least 30 for academic publications made in the area of Social Sciences and Humanities; Medicine.

Professor David R. Bangsberg has been recognized as the top-ranked scientist in Medicine in Vietnam (https://research.com/u/david-r-bangsberg)

 Professor Pranee Liamputtong received a high ranking in Social Sciences and Humanities in Australia (#96) and the world (#1402) from Research.com in 2024. 

The full ranking for Australia is available here: research.com/scientists-rankings/social-sciences-and-humanities/au
The full world ranking is available here: research.com/scientists-rankings/social-sciences-and-humanities

Feel free to also read an article summarizing the statistics and trends from our ranking here: https://research.com/careers/world-online-ranking-of-best-social-and-humanities-scientists-2024-report

Although this was a ranking for scholars in Australia, Professor Pranee has changed her affiliation from WSU in Sydney to VinUniversity in the 2023 ranking, and so VinUni’s name is on her name.

Having both Professor Pranee Liamputtong and Professor David R. Bangsberg honored for their contributions not only strengthens VinUniversity''s reputation but also underscores its dedication to advancing research and scholarship in diverse fields. Congratulations to both professors and to VinUniversity for these remarkable accomplishments!

III. External Highlights

1. Dr. Le Cu Linh, Executive Vice Dean of VinUniversity’s College of Health Sciences, participated in a medical education course in Salzburg, Austria, to strengthen collaboration with the Open Medical Institute (OMI).

On May 3, 2024, a group of 33 physicians from 25 countries gathered in Salzburg to participate in a seminar on medical education. Experts from various fields such as dermatology, internal medicine, pediatrics, and family medicine spent seven days exploring the most effective ways to educate medical professionals. Guided by Dr. Beth Rezet, the course director, along with colleagues from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), participants delved into learning theories, qualities of great teachers, and curriculum design.

Dr. Le Cu Linh, a special guest at the course, actively engaged in the seminar activities. His presence not only strengthened the collaboration between VinUniversity and OMI but also contributed to enhancing the quality of medical education in Vietnam. https://www.openmedicalinstitute.org/blog/2024/05/03/a-passion-for-medical-education-the-chop-philosophy-of-teaching/

2. Faculty Development Workshop in Simulation

On May 7-9, co-organized by the Faculty of the School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, and Bachelor of Nursing Program, VinUniversity, this intensive Faculty Development Workshop in Simulation provided an enriching experience for nursing clinical faculty aiming to enhance their skills in medical simulation. The workshop had participation from nurses of Vinmec Times City, Hanoi Mental Hospital, National Geriatric Hospital.

The workshop was a resounding success, equipping faculty with valuable skills and insights to advance medical education through innovative simulation techniques. Participants left with a renewed commitment to enhance patient care and outcomes with cutting-edge simulation-based training.

3. Undergraduate Admission

To enhance the commitment of students who have accepted the offer admission letter and paid their deposits, the College of Health Sciences collaborated with the Admission team to carry out the Online course “Human Body Talk”. This course allows students, regardless of the geographical barrier, to meet CHS faculty and prospective students in the MD and BN classes of the 2024 – 2025 academic year. Furthermore, students experienced different state-of-the-art educational techniques employed in the Human Anatomy laboratory at Vinuni.

4. PGY4 Internal Medicine Resident experiencing OMI Clinical Observership 2024

A year after attending the OMI Seminars in Salzburg, Dr. Nguyen Hoang Kim Han, a PGY4 Internal Medicine Resident, returned to Austria for the OMI Clinical Observership 2024. Sponsored by the Open Medical Institute (OMI), this program allows young doctors worldwide to observe at major Austrian hospitals for 1-3 months. 

During her observership at Medical University of Vienna, Dr. Han was guided by Professor Georg Stary, an experienced dermatologist and researcher. She gained invaluable clinical and research insights, observing various dermatology clinics, including immunology, allergy, STDs, bio-immune therapy, and inpatient care. This exposure enhanced her diagnostic and treatment skills, aligning with VinUni and Vinmec’s training models. The supportive doctors enriched her clinical understanding through their knowledge and experience. 

For Dr. Han, the OMI Clinical Observership 2024 was a significant milestone, expanding her professional knowledge, clinical skills, and global medical connections. She hopes to return to Austria to share these experiences and contribute to OMI''s mission: "Prevent brain drain and initiate lasting brain gain of medical professionals in countries in transition." 

5. PGY4 Surgery Resident completed the observership program in Upenn

Dr. Nguyen The Duy (PGY4 Surgery Resident) completed his visit to Pennsylvania University in Philadelphia for a clinical observership program in Surgery during the period of May 6th through May 18th, 2024. This program is under the Vingroup-Penn Alliance – a Vietnamese & American partnership connecting physicians and educators from Vietnam & America.  The purpose of this visit is to observe clinical rotations within the University of Pennsylvania Health System. This includes accompanying UPenn faculty and staff on hospital rounds, face-to-face mentorship on clinical teaching best practices, and observe clinical practice as scheduled.5. PGY4 Surgery Resident completed the observership program in Upenn

6. Surgery Program Director’s business trip to the US

Dr. Dang Kim Khue – Acting Program Director of the General Surgery Program had a visit to Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland during 29 April – 3 May 2024 with an invitation from Dr. Jeremy Lipman, GME Director cum DIO of Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Jeremy is a renowned surgical educator and he’s also Dr. Khue’s mentor in the Association of Program Directors in Surgery. The purposes of this visit are to meet with the medical education leaders, attend rounds, conferences, operation rooms, research presentation in Cleveland Clinic. After visiting Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Khue quickly moved to Philadelphia to attend the MCEA Part 3 course in Pennsylvania University during 5-18 May 2024 to complete the course and join the graduation ceremony of this course. 

7. A Pediatrics Resident completed her observership at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), USA

Dr. Nguyen Thi Thuy PGY4 Pediatrics Resident) completed her visit to Pennsylvania University in Philadelphia for a clinical observership program in Pediatrics from May 13^th to May 24^th, 2024. During her trip, Dr. Thuy spent time with both an inpatient General Pediatrics team and an Infectious Diseases consult team. She also attended teaching conferences, Grand Rounds, and simulation exercises.

8. Pediatrics Associate Program Director’s business trip to the US

Dr. Bui Thi Thanh Huyen – Associate Program Director of the Pediatrics Residency Program graduated from the MCEA Part 3 course in the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia with her individual project presentation regarding developing a new clinical team structure in the Pediatrics Residency Program at VinUniversity. Dr. Huyen also completed her two-weeks observership program from April 29^th to May 10^th, 2024, at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), USA. During her observership, Dr. Huyen spent time with two inpatient General Pediatrics teams. She also attended teaching conferences, Grand Rounds, and simulation exercises. 

IV. Internal/Cultural/Learning (Within VinUni) highlights

1. International Nurses Day 2024

On May 12, CHS faculty and BN students celebrated International Nurses Day with a remarkable event highlighting future nurses'' dedication and impact. From impressive performances to meaningful storytelling and team-building activities, the faculty and students showcased the essence of nursing excellence and wish to continue inspiring and uplifting each other in their shared pursuit of healthcare.

2. Student Rounds Program Highlights – MD Program 

Featured Presentation by Lưu Bảo Linh 

On May 11, the Student Rounds Program session showcased an insightful presentation by Lưu Bảo Linh, a fourth-year MD student and SAMO leader. Linh shared valuable insights and experiences on acute renal failure in a patient with nephrotic syndrome with our MD Year 1-3 students. The presentation was both engaging and informative, receiving enthusiastic feedback from all attendees.

Esteemed Guidance by Dr. Lê Văn Phước

We were honored to have Dr. Lê Văn Phước, Vice Dean of Medical Education, as the guiding faculty for this session. Dr.Phước''s extensive knowledge and mentorship provided invaluable support to Linh and enriched the learning experience for all participants. His expert guidance ensured the session''s educational focus and offered practical takeaways for our students. 

This session exemplified the collaborative spirit of our institution, combining student dedication with expert mentorship for a highly enriching experience. 

3. Student Rounds Program Highlights – MD Program

The Orthopedic resident doctors, along with the medical staff of the Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center at Vinmec International General Hospital, provide medical support for the VinUni Volleyball Open Championship I 2024 on May 25th. They are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants, ready to respond promptly to any medical emergencies that may arise during the tournament. Their presence reinforces the commitment to sports safety and promotes a supportive environment where players can compete confidently, knowing that medical assistance is readily available if needed.