1.Study on peripheral nerves and location of the moxibustion points on vertebra
Choijamts G ; Amarsanaa J ; Uuvanbaatar B
Diagnosis 2024;110(3):30-34
Background:
According to the theory of traditional medicine, there are 19 active veins that pierce down from the brain stem like a root, through which the lhung runs and performs the movement of the body. It is believed that the water veins or white veins exist in all four limbs and solid organs and play an important role in regulating the body's activities by lhung action, while in traditional medicine, the nervous system regulates the activities of all organ systems and ensures the unity of the body's activities and adapts to the external environment. It is considered as a system that creates conditions for the body to interact as a whole, and moxibustion is a treatment that provides beneficial therapeutic changes to the diseased organ through the arc of reflection. Purpose
Purpose :
Establishing importance of moxibustion treatment and coherence of moxibustion points and peripheral nerve fibers.
Survey Methodology:
Data collection method: 31 pairs of neurological terms from European and traditional medical books and texts, judge which organs to go to for innervation and the degree of branching of white veins and summarize the translated material
Comparative method:
To develop results by comparing the data collected from the literature and sources of traditional medicine and European medicine which are the main materials of this research
Research results:
The 13 inner and 6 outer veins from the white vein were filtered from traditional medical commentaries and compared with the peripheral nerve branches of the spinal cord medicine. Compared with nerve, nerve branches from the anterior horn of the spinal cord, including the shoulder, lumbar were compared with 6 fibers running outside, and from the nerve branches from the shoulder where N. medialis, N. radialis, and N. ulnaris nerves were located and branched. According to the comparison of jajid, and Radna veins, the N. femoralis nerve coming from the lumbar with internal branches of the Vugujin vein, and the N. sciaticus or sciatic nerve coming from the lumbar were compared depending on the location of the outer branches of the Vugujin nerve and the end of the branching.
Studied how the nerves branching out from the main 20 junctions located in the posterior confluence of moxibustion therapy, and in doing so, compared the spinal nerve and vegetative nerve branches that exit from the confluence separately and assigned their locations. It is considered the feature of forming a network and separating from it to go to the innervation organ.
Conclusion
The white veins have 13 inner veins, outer veins 6, and the inner veins are 4 lhung veins, 2 heart, 2 in the small intestine, the 4 tripa (tiba) veins are in the lungs, colon, liver, and gallbladder, and the 4 badkan veins are in the stomach, spleen, kidney, bladder veins connects with vesicle of regeneration. It is mentioned in the majority of texts that it will connect with also vesicle of regeneration, but there are differences in two sources saying that 2 veins of lhung 2 in large intestine, 1 vein of badkan connects with lungs, and the 13 branches of white veins correspond to the organs innervating the vagus nerve in the medical theory. The branch of the nerve that connects with the back points of moxibustion is connected with the branch of the nerve from the anterior horn of the spinal cord, the ganglion of the sympathetic nerve from the external horn and its branches. It is considered more important to consider the branching of nodes.
2.Aflatoxins in Food and Human Health Risk
Tserendolgor U ; Amarsanaa G ; Ganzorig D ; Unursaikhan S ; Gerelmaa L ; Odonchimeg M ; Narandelger B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2015;173(3):44-49
Aflatoxins are the secondary metabolites of the fungi namely, Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus. They can colonize and contaminate grain before harvest or during storage. There are about twenty related secondary forms of aflatoxins, and subtypes B₁, B₂, G₁, G₂. These aflatoxins frequently contaminate the foods and feeds (Yu J et al, 2000, Imanaka BT et al, 2007). Aflatoxin B1, the most toxic, is a potent hepatocarcinogenic and genotoxigenic metabolites that have been classified as group I carcinogens by International Agency of Research on Cancer (International Agency for Research on cancer, 1993). Aflatoxin M1 is found in milk of lactating cows that have consumed feeds contaminated with aflatoxin B₁. Aflatoxin M₁ was originally classified as a Group 2B human carcinogen in 1993, but subsequent evidences of its cytotoxic, genotoxic and carcinogenic effects led to a new categorization of aflaoxin M1 as Group I (International Agency for Research on cancer, 2002). Aflatoxins can affect a wide range of commodities, including crops, cereals, oilseeds, spices, tree nuts, milk, meat, and dried fruit (Wilson DM et al, 1994, Bao L et al, 2010). Mongolia has been imported foods about 60 percent of food demands including wheat, flour, rice, milk, dairy products, peanuts and maize. This situation is required to study aflatoxin contamination in food in Mongolia. Epidemiological studies have found that dietary exposure to aflatoxin and chronic infection with hepatitis B, C virus are three major risk factors for HCC (Viviani et al. 1997; Hall et al. 2003). HCC as a result of chronic aflatoxin exposure has been well documented, presenting most often in persons with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (Wild and Gong, 2010). The risk of liver cancer in individuals exposed to chronic HBV infection and aflatoxin is up to 30 times greater than the risk in individuals exposed to aflatoxin (Groopman et al., 2008). According to the WHO, the national liver cancer incidence rates was 54.1 per 100.000 population, the prevalence of HBV and HCV infection in 11.8%, 15.6% were respectively (J.Abarsanaa, 2012). This situation is a serous public health problem in Mongolia. Thus, we aimed to carry out the monitoring surveillance survey on the aflatoxin contamination level in some food.
3.The utilization of biotinylated RNA baits on captured sequencing of cancer marker genes functional regions
Byambasuren B ; Dulamsuren O ; Lkhagvadorj G ; Amarsanaa E ; Khurelbaatar S ; Shiirevnyamba A ; Batsaikhan B ; Zanabazar E
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2021;198(4):3-14
Background:
Nucleic acid sequencing is a multi-step process taken place in medical research or diagnostic
laboratories. Since the emerge of second generation sequencing technology generally referred as
next generation sequencing (NGS), the mass parallel reads covering human genome or transcriptome
is achieved by cost cut down over thousand folds. Though the technology made tremendous push
forward to various applications, its data analysis time and effort still takes worrisome time and human
effort, bringing the emerge of next-step demand: targeted mass sequencing of only desired part
from human genome or transcriptome with lower material cost and labor. By targeted sequencing,
both run cost and data analysis process can be further cut down, and the read results are more
reliable on changes such as determining varied number of repeats, heterozygote alleles, deletions,
chromosomal scale abnormality and more.
Objective:
In this study, we explored the utilization of biotinylated RNA baits on captured sequencing of cancer
marker genes functional regions.
Method:
Targeted NGS was achieved by capturing desired genomic regions using preparatory nucleic acid
probes. RNA bait capturing of desired genomic regions has shown to have high specificity and quality.
The study was carried out with informed consent obtained from patients, with the approval №53 in
2018.03.15 by Medical Ethics committee, Ministry of Health, Mongolia.
Result:
By preparing library of biotinylated RNA baits with 75000 unique sequences, we achieved mass
parallel sequencing of human 410 cancer-marker-genes’ exons and UTRs with average read depth
~760, and covered thousands of SNPs on 5 genomic DNA samples. Tissue samples derived from
breast cancer and ovary cancer had SNP and deletion on 7 marker genes (BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM, BRIP1, PTEN, TP53, RAD51C) not registered in database.
Conclusion
Experiments showed RNA baits with up to 117 nucleotide length, produced from ssDNA oligonucleotide
stock, can be utilized to capture desired regions of human genome, and bring the cost of captured
mass sequencing to 1500 USD, with 93.14-93.33% of Q30 read quality.
4.The significance of exhaled nitric oxide in the diagnosis of asthma
Densenbal D ; Solongo B ; Ankhbold G ; Amarsanaa O ; Battsengel Ts ; Zesemdorj O ; Janchivdorj Z ; Ankhil L ; Tseepil E ; Odonchimeg B ; Sarantuya J ; Ichinnorov D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):14-18
Background:
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by bronchoconstriction and breathing difficulties,
which can be triggered by both allergic and non-allergic mechanisms. In allergic asthma, a hyperreactivity reaction
occurs, leading to an increase in fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) levels. Therefore, FeNO is used to differentiate
allergic and non-allergic types of asthma. In recent years, studies have been conducted to assess FeNO as an indicator of
treatment effectiveness and symptom control. Our goal is to introduce FeNO measurement in Mongolia for the first time
and utilize it for asthma diagnosis and treatment outcome evaluation.
Aim:
Study of FeNO levels in Asthma Diagnosis in Relation to Laboratory Findings and Lung Function
Materials and Methods:
This study included a total of 70 adult patients (18 years and older) with asthma who visited the
Outpatient Clinic of Mongolia-Japan Hospital and Shargaljuut Spa Clinic from May to December 2024. Based on their
allergic history, total IgE levels, and peripheral blood eosinophil count, participants were classified into allergic (>5%)
and non-allergic (<5%) asthma. The study aimed to determine the diagnostic specificity and sensitivity of FeNO levels.
Asthma control levels were assessed using the Asthma Control Test (ACT), lung function was evaluated using spirometry,
and exercise capacity was measured with the 6-minute walk test.
Results:
In a single measurement, there were no differences between the allergic and non-allergic groups in parameters
other than total IgE, peripheral blood eosinophil count, and FeNO levels. For diagnosing the allergic form of asthma, at
a FeNO level of 25 ppb, sensitivity (Se) was 0.68, specificity (Sp) was 0.30 (p=0.008); at 40 ppb, Se was 0.77, Sp was
0.31 (p=0.001); and at 50 ppb, Se was 0.74, Sp was 0.33 (p=0.001). Lung function and exercise capacity were similar in
both asthma groups.
Conclusion
The sensitivity of FeNO in distinguishing between allergic and non-allergic forms of asthma is 67-81%, and
its sensitivity tends to increase as the FeNO level rises. By distinguishing the allergic type in which inhaled corticosteroids
are more effective, the outcome of asthma treatment can be predicted in advance based on the FeNO level.
5.Short-term effects of hot spring therapy on asthma
Densenbal D ; Ichinnorov D ; Ankhbold G ; Amarsanaa O ; Battsengel Ts ; Zesemdorj O ; Janchivdorj Z ; Ankhil L ; Tseepil E ; Tumen-Ulzii G ; Еkaterina Faermark ; Odonchimeg B ; Solongo B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):19-23
Background:
Asthma management should be individualized, evidence-based, aimed at controlling clinical symptoms,
preventing severe exacerbations, and improving quality of life. Studies have shown that inhalation therapy with iodine-
bromide saltwater improves lung function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while radon-containing
mineral water inhalation reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in asthma. Several studies have analyzed the
composition of the Shargaljuut hot spring, with Oyuntsesteg et al. identifying high levels of Na+-HCO3
- and Na+-SO4.
Other studies on mineral water therapies have reported benefits such as thinning bronchial secretions, improving sputum
clearance, reducing inflammation and acidity, mitigating oxidative stress, and enhancing quality of life.
Aim:
To study the effectiveness of combined asthma treatment with inhaled corticosteroids and hot spring inhalation.
Materials and Methods:
The study included 67 participants diagnosed with asthma who consented to participate and
underwent 10 days of combined inhaled corticosteroid therapy and mineral water inhalation at Shargaljuut sanatorium. A
total of 57 participants completed the pre- and post-treatment assessments. Treatment result was assessed using Asthma
control questionnaire 7, asthma symptom control with Asthma Control Test (ACT), and exercise tolerance by a 6-minute
walk test. Chest X-rays were taken for all participants to rule out pneumonia, cancer, or pulmonary fibrosis. Treatment
outcomes were evaluated using ACT scores, peripheral blood eosinophil count, total IgE levels in serum, spirometry indices
(FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC), and the 6-minute walk distance.
Results:
The average age of participants was 52±12 years, with a predominance of females. The mean asthma control
score was 14.2±4.80, indicating poor asthma control. After 10 days of inhaling corticosteroids combined with hot spring
inhalation post-treatment quality of life increased by 0.5 points, FEV1 improved by 7.5%, FVC by 4.2%, peripheral
blood eosinophil count decreased by 0.3%, and total Ig E levels dropped from 73.3 (22.5; 216) to 73.2 (21.3; 223) u/ml
(p=0.000).
Conclusion
In cases of uncontrolled asthma remission, combining of inhaled corticosteroid therapy with hot spring
inhalation at Shargaljuut improved asthma symptoms, quality of life, enhanced lung function, and reduced inflammatory
markers (p<0.001).
6.Outcomes of Mandibular Reconstruction Using Free Flap After Head and Neck Cancer Resection and Approaches for Improvement
Unubold E ; Denis S ; Odontungalag Ts ; Yanjinlkham M ; Amarsanaa G ; Tsetsegkhen N ; Gantsetseg G ; Battsengel B ; Gan-Erdene B ; Bat-Erdene M ; Bulganchimeg S ; Ganbaatar Yu ; Odkhuu J ; Enkh-Orchlon B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;87(3):82-89
Background:
Reconstruction of mandibular and maxillary defects resulting
from malignant tumors has remained a complex challenge in recent years. Defects
caused by tumors—as well as trauma, inflammatory diseases, and congenital
anomalies—lead to impaired essential functions such as mastication,
swallowing, and speech. Prior to the 1950s, reconstruction of maxillofacial
hard tissue was not commonly performed. Instead, metal plates were used to
reestablish bony continuity, and surrounding tissues were utilized to close soft
tissue defects, without effectively restoring function.
With modern advances in three-dimensional (3D) virtual planning, it is now possible
to accurately plan free bone flaps for reconstructing jaw defects. During
surgery, manually bending reconstruction plates to fit donor bone precisely is
often not feasible. Preoperative 3D planning allows for precise fabrication of
surgical guides and fixation plates, improving accuracy and significantly reducing
operative time. Additionally, incorporating dental implant planning into
the reconstruction process facilitates restoration of both structural and functional
outcomes.
Aim:
To evaluate the outcomes of mandibular defect reconstruction using
scapular free flaps in Mongolia and explore potential approaches to optimize
the technique.
Materials and Methods:
This was a case study series. Data from reconstructive
surgeries performed at the National Cancer Center of Mongolia, Central
Dental Hospital, and the Mongolia-Japan Hospital were collected. Variables
included patient age and sex, etiology of the mandibular defect, size of the
scapular bone segment, operative time, ischemia time of the free flap, number
of vascular anastomoses performed, and pedicle length.
For 3D planning, CT scans of the patient's head and lower limb (slice thickness
<1 cm) were used to generate 3D models via the 3D Slicer software. Cutting
guides for the mandible and scapula (ASIGA), as well as the reconstruction
models (AMS), were printed using a 3D printer.
Results:
A total of 400 free flap reconstructions were performed during the
study period. Of these, 29 cases involved reconstruction of mandibular defects
using scapular free flaps. The mean age of patients was 40.0 ± 18.3 years,
with 52% (15 patients) being female. The etiologies of the defects included
malignant tumors (13 cases, 45%), benign tumors (6 cases, 21%), and pre-existing
defects (10 cases, 34%).
In one case, tumor resection and mandibular reconstruction were performed
using 3D planning. The total operative time was 9 hours and 30 minutes, and
the ischemia time was 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Conclusion
Between 2012 and 2025, a total of 29 mandibular reconstructions
using scapular free flaps were performed in Mongolia. Traditional reconstruction
methods were associated with prolonged ischemia time. The use of
3D surgical planning has shown potential in significantly reducing ischemia
time and improving surgical outcomes.