Background: Bioactive compounds derived from plants have been extensively studied and widely applied in cosmetic and dermatological fields. In particular, plant-derived polyphenols and anthraquinones are known for their antioxidant properties as well as their ability to inhibit elastase enzyme activity. Elastase is a key proteolytic enzyme responsible for degrading elastin, a structural protein essential for maintaining skin elasticity. Excessive elastase activity contributes to skin aging and wrinkle formation. Therefore, the identification of plant-derived compounds capable of interacting with elastase is of significant importance for improving the composition and efficacy of cosmetic products. Aim: To identify bioactive compounds in the extract of Rheum undulatum L. and to investigate their interaction with elastase enzyme activity. Materials and Methods: The root of Rheum undulatum L. was used as the study material. Sample preparation was performed by grinding the plant root followed by extraction using 50% ethanol assisted by an ultrasonic water bath. The obtained extract was evaporated to dryness using a vacuum centrifugation system to remove the solvent completely. A total of 10 mg of the dried extract was dissolved in 100 µL methanol and 900 µL water, then filtered through a 0.1 µm membrane filter. Subsequently, two sample sets were prepared: a control sample and an elastase-incubated sample at a 1:1 ratio. Both were analyzed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Data processing was performed using Agilent MassHunter Qualitative Analysis software (version 10.0). Results: LC-MS analysis revealed a total of 16 bioactive compounds in the root extract of Rheum undulatum L. Comparative analysis between the control and elastase-treated samples demonstrated a decrease in the peak areas of gluconic acid and citric acid, while an increase in the peak area of emodin was observed. These changes indicate compositional differences between the two sample conditions. Conclusion The LC-MS analysis of Rheum undulatum L. root extract identified multiple bioactive compounds belonging to anthraquinone, phenolic, and flavonoid classes. Variations in peak intensities between control and elastase-treated samples suggest potential interactions between certain compounds and the enzyme. These findings indicate that the root extract contains biologically active constituents capable of modulating elastase activity, supporting its potential application in anti-aging and cosmetic formulations.

Background: Occupational stress among dentists has both direct and indirect effects on individual mental health and work productivity. Furthermore, it is a critical factor influencing patient satisfaction, quality of care, human resource stability, and the sustainable development of healthcare organizations. Aim: To assess job satisfaction among dentists and to identify selected factors associated with it. Materials and Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study included a total of 98 dentists providing oral healthcare services in both public and private dental clinics in Mongolia. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered via Google Forms. The questionnaire consisted of 30 items across three sections, covering general information, working conditions, and job satisfaction. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 31.0. Results: The overall job satisfaction score among participating dentists was above average (3.68±0.77). The findings revealed that workplace comfort (r=0.570), colleague relationships (r=0.560), salary (r=0.501), managerial professional competence (r=0.484), and opportunities for professional advancement (r=0.482) were significantly and positively correlated with job satisfaction (p<0.001). Workload did not show a statistically significant association with job satisfaction (p>0.05). Notably, the level of satisfaction regarding institutional support for professional skill development was relatively low (1.87±0.86). Conclusions 1. Factors such as workplace comfort, colleague relationships, salary, managerial competence and opportunities for professional advancement showed a statistically significant positive correlation with job satisfaction among dentists (p < 0.001). 2. The level of job satisfaction among dentists was assessed as above average (3.68±0.77).

Background: Indoor air quality in schools is an important environmental health concern because children spend a substantial proportion of their time in classrooms and are particularly vulnerable to air pollutants. Objective: To assess common chemical, and biological pollutants in the indoor air of general education schools in Ulaanbaatar. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 10, 2025, to March 1, 2026, in 16 purposively selected schools and 32 classrooms across six districts of Ulaanbaatar. PM2.5, PM10, CO₂, and microclimatic parameters were monitored continuously for seven days. Volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, BTEX compounds, and radon were also measured. Airborne microorganisms were assessed using 160 air samples, and 160 surface swabs were collected. Results were compared with MNS 7106:2026, MNS 5484:2005, and MNS 6410:2018 standards. Results: The mean 24-hour concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were 25.2 and 36.1 µg/m³, respectively. PM2.5 exceeded the permissible level during winter and in schools located in apartment areas, whereas the mean PM10 concentration met the acceptable level. Total bacteria were detected in all air samples, with a mean concentration of 1,733.25 CFU/m³. Mould and fungi were detected in 56.3% of classrooms, and enteric bacteria were detected in 4.3% of surface swabs. Radon levels remained below the permissible limit, and pathogenic bacteria were not detected. Formaldehyde was detected in all samples, while total VOCs and toluene were detected in 81.3%; their mean concentrations remained within acceptable levels. In one classroom, the concentration of benzene was detected approximately 30 times higher the permissible level. Conclusion Although some indoor air-quality indicators met the relevant standards, PM2.5, total bacteria, mould and fungi, surface enteric bacteria, and benzene contamination require improvement and may pose health risks to children. Regular ventilation, improved cleaning and hygiene, proper maintenance of HEPA devices, and routine monitoring of particulate matter, mould, and VOCs are needed.

Background: Since ancient times, humans have used medicinal plants for medicinal purposes, and they have been recognized as beneficial to health. The basis of the treatment of these plants is phytochemical substances and in modern times, with the development of science and technology, the substances contained in these plants are extracted and medicinal substances and drugs are produced to treat many diseases. There are more than 800 medicinal plants in Mongolia, and their chemical structure and properties are studied in detail, biological activity and main features are discovered, and new medicines are produced. From the Thalictrum squarrosum plant, 25 compounds have been identified, such as triterpenoids with 17 carbon atoms in the cycloartane type ring, saponins, oleic acid glycosides, phytosterols and their glycosides etc., and the structures of 7 new compounds have been determined and the research on phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity has been limited, which is the basis for this research. Aim: Determination of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of Thalictrum squarrosum. Materials and Methods: Total phenolic compounds were determined spectrophotometrically using Folin-Chicolte color reagent in 1.0 raw material of the Thalictrum squarrosum. Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH, FRAB and ABTS in sub-extracts of 4 groups. Results: The total phenolic compounds of Thalictrum squarrosum were determined to be 1.9±0.001%. In the study of biological activity of Thalictrum squarrosum plants, the antioxidant activity of 4 groups of sub-extracts was tested by DPPH method, and the IC50 of total alkaloids (pH 9-10) was 201.58±0.1 μg/ml, ethyl acetate sub-extract 94.34±0.66 μg/ml, aqueous extract 824.18±0.08 μg/ml, and butanol sub-extract 128.75±0.58 μg/ml. When tested by ABTS method, the IC50 of total alkaloids (pH 9-10) was 35.83±0.44 μg/ml, ethyl acetate sub-extract 90.45±0.62 μg/ml, aqueous extract 104.19±0.93 μg/ml, dichloromethane sub-extract 156.44±0.48 μg/ml, and butanol sub-extract 170.03±0.61 μg/ml. When tested for antioxidant activity at 800 μg/ml by the FRAB method, the ethyl acetate sub-extract was 8946.16±14.79 μg/ml, the dichloromethane sub-extract was 1670.12±39.28 μg/ml, the butanol sub-extract was 4863.97±25.98 μg/ml, and the total alkaloids (pH 9-10) were 4897.99±58.12 μg/ml. Conclusion The ethyl acetate extract of the plant Thalictrum squarrosum has been found to be highly antioxidant active and total phenolic compound was 1.9±0.001%.

Background: Type 2 diabetes has increased risk of heart failure 2-4 times more than those in non-diabetic subjects. The early detection of asymptomatic ventricular dysfunction by using NT-pro BNP test in diabetic patients is the best strategy for decreasing morbidity and mortality of heart failure. Aim: The aims of this study were to detect asymptomatic cardiac ventricular dysfunction by using NT-pro BNP test in subjects with type 2 diabetes and to define the factors associated with elevated NT-proBNP. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was included diabetic and non diabetic subjects aged from 35- to 64 years, who had no clinical symptoms of heart failure. Cardiovascular risk factors were detected by clinical examinations. NT-pro BNP determination was performed on an immunoassay analyzer (FIA1100, Getein Bio Medical Inc, China), which uses reagent strip to obtain quantitative NT-pro BNP results in plasma. The cut-off point for NT-pro BNP was 300 pg/ml. Results: A total of 536 subjects without clinical symptoms of heart failure were included in the study of which, 150 were diabetic and 386 were non diabetic. The mean age was 52.8 ± 7.8 years and 281 (52.4%) were females. Cardiac ventricular dysfunction was detected in 7.3% of diabetic and 5.2% of non diabetic subjects. Cardiac ventricular dysfunction in diabetic subjects was increased with age and non-significantly higher in females than in males (8.3% vs 6.4%, p>0.05). In the logistic regression analysis, uncontrolled hypertension (OR 3.80, 95% CI 1.07–13.44), long duration of disease (OR 5.30, 95% CI 1.36-20.66), and ageing (OR 5.40, 95% CI 1.29–22.88) were significantly correlated cardiac ventricular dysfunction in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Conclusion Cardiac ventricular dysfunction in subjects with type 2 diabetes was detected 1.4 times more than those in non diabetic subjects. The likelihood of positive NT-pro BNP test in subjects with type 2 diabetes was independently (p<0.05) associated with advanced age, uncontrolled hypertension and long duration of diabetes.

Background: Accreditation of healthcare institutions serves as a fundamental mechanism for ensuring patient safety and validating the quality of medical services provided to the population. At Intermed Hospital, a quality measurement system for healthcare services has been established since 2015, encompassing 126 quality indicators at both institutional and departmental levels. This system facilitates continuous quality improvement efforts. In this context, quality indicators specific to the endoscopy department play a pivotal role in objectively assessing the quality of endoscopic services. Aim: To assess the quality indicators in gastrointestinal endoscopy unit. Materials and Methods: A retrospective single-center study was conducted by collecting data from the Intermed hospital’s electronic information systems which included HIS and PACS and Quality and Safety Department’s Database and the results were processed using the SPSS software. Ethical approval was granted by the Intermed hospital’s Scientific research committee. The quality of endoscopic services in the Intermed hospital was assessed based on: a) the average values of four quality indicators measured monthly; b) sample survey data from five categories of quality indicators. Results : Between 2016 and 2024, the quality indicators of the endoscopy unit measured as the level of early warning score evaluations for patients was 95.97%±3.33, the level of cases where peripheral blood oxygen saturation decreased during sedation was 1.54%±3.78, the level of cases where patients experienced paradoxiical response during sedation was 5.82%±1.75, surveillance culturing level for validation of endoscopy reprocessing was 11.6%. The endoscopic documentation quality by peer review showed 95.7-100%, the colonoscopy quality indicators were followings as adenoma detection rate: 24.5% Cecal intubation rate: 99.1%, 95.2%, Colonoscope withdrawal average time: 13.28±10.62 minutes, Bowel preparation quality (Boston Scale): 89.3% 95.7%), patient discharge from the recovery room, Average discharge time post-procedure: With propofol alone: 30.92 minutes; With propofol and fentanyl combined: 31.52 minutes, The intermediate risk was 0.28% by the TROOPS evaluation during procedural sedation. Conclusion The quality benchmark levels for these endoscopic units, as determined by a single-center study, can be effectively implemented by benchmark endoscopy centers to enhance their quality and safety operations.

Background: Although early attention to children’s and adolescents’ health education is important, research assessing the health knowledge of children under 13 is limited, and a validated assessment tool has not yet been developed; this forms the rationale for the present study. Aim: Assessing the Reliability of the Mongolian Translation of a Questionnaire for Evaluating Children’s Fundamental Health Concepts. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in May–June 2025 among children aged 8–11 years attending public general education schools in the Khan-Uul, Bayanzurkh, and Sukhbaatar districts of Ulaanbaatar. Of a total population of 459 eligible students, 352 participated in the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of 12 sociodemographic items and 15 items from the Health Literacy Assessment Tool for Children (HLSChild- Q15), resulting in a total of 27 items. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 21.0, with p-values less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 352 students participated in the study. By gender, the majority were girls, accounting for 57.1% (n=201), while boys comprised 42.3% (n=149). Regarding grade level, 24.7% (n=87) were in third grade, 60.5% (n=213) in fourth grade, 11.4% (n=40) in fifth grade, and 3.1% (n=11) in sixth grade. By age, 9.1% (n=32) were 8 years old, 36.4% (n=128) were 9 years old, 43.2% (n=152) were 10 years old, and 11.4% (n=40) were 11 years old. Internal consistency was acceptable, with Cronbach’s α=0.82. Exploratory factor analysis revealed three factors, explaining 56.3% of the total variance. The sampling adequacy was acceptable (KMO=0.596), and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was significant, χ²(105)=2615.78, p<0.001, indicating suitability for factor analysis. Conclusion This study demonstrated that the Mongolian version of the HLS-Child-Q15 questionnaire meets the requirements of reliability and construct validity, indicating that it is an appropriate instrument for assessing the foundational concept of health literacy among children in Mongolia.

Human echinococcosis is a zoonotic disease (a disease that is transmitted to humans from animals) that is caused by parasites, namely tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus. A number of herbivorous and omnivorous animals act as intermediate hosts of Echinococcus. They become infected by ingesting the parasite eggs in contaminated food and water, and the parasite then develops into larval stages in the viscera. Alveolar echinococcosis usually occurs in a wildlife cycle between foxes or other carnivores with small mammals (mostly rodents) acting as intermediate hosts. Domesticated dogs and cats can also act as definitive hosts. Human infection with E. granulosus leads to the development of one or more hydatid cysts located most often in the liver and lungs, and less frequently in the bones, kidneys, spleen, muscles and central nervous system. In endemic regions, human incidence rates for cystic echinococcosis can reach more than 50 per 100 000 person-years, and prevalence levels as high as 5%–10% may occur in parts of Argentina, Peru, East Africa, Central Asia and China. In livestock, the prevalence of cystic echinococcosis found in slaughterhouses in hyperendemic areas of South America varies from 20%–95% of slaughtered animals. The highest prevalence is found in rural areas where older animals are slaughtered. Depending on the infected species involved, livestock production losses attributable to cystic echinococcosis result from liver condemnation and may also involve reduction in carcass weight, decrease in hide value, decrease of milk production, and reduced fertility. Ultrasonography imaging is the technique of choice for the diagnosis of both cystic echinococcosis and alveolar echinococcosis in humans. This technique is usually complemented or validated by computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. The choice must primarily be based on the ultrasound images of the cyst, following a stage-specific approach, and also on the medical infrastructure and human resources available. Worldwide, there may be in excess of 1 million people living with these diseases at any one time. Many of these people will be experiencing severe clinical syndromes which are life-threatening if left untreated. Even with treatment, people often face reduced quality of life. For cystic echinococcosis, there is an average of 2.2% post-operative death rate for surgical patients and about 6.5% of cases relapse after an intervention, thereby requiring prolonged recovery time.

Lung cancer has the highest mortality rate in the world and is the most common cancer type in Asiancountries. In developed countries, new cases and lung cancer among women tend to increase, while in less developed countries, the death rate of this cancer is high and its prevalence is higher among males.
Moreover, in many studies conducted in recent years worldwide, a sample of the studies containing early detection, diagnosis, and treatment that can be implemented at the national level was translated and compiled.
Improvement of public health education, availability of health care services, an increase of human resource capacity, implementation of early detection programs among the public, and early detection with a reduced dose of KTG among the target group are expectations of the public health sector.
Special attention should be paid to issues such as reducing smoking among the people of Mongolia, immediately solving the problem of air pollution in central areas, assessing and reducing the risk factors of occupational diseases of mining workers, and introducing modern methods of treatment and diagnosis in health care services. The time has come to take multifaceted measures to prevent lung cancer, which has a high global disease burden and economic burden, with public participation.

Introduction: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world, and half of all new cases (59.6%) are recorded in Asia. Smoking remains the leading cause of death from lung cancer and COPD, followed by air pollution. Therefore, in Ulaanbaatar, where the population concentration is high and air pollution is high, there is a need to study the new cases and deaths of lung cancer in detail. Purpose: It is aimed to evaluate the prevalence of new cases and deaths of lung cancer among the population of Ulaanbaatar. Materials and Methods: This study analyzed new cases and deaths diagnosed with lung cancer from 2013 to 2023 in the city of Ulaanbaatar using a single-moment design of descriptive research. The quantitative data of the study included the diseases recorded using the International Classification of Diseases X (ICD-10) and lung cancer codes C-33 and C-34. The numerical data collected during the research were processed in the Microsoft Office Excel-13 program and processed using the IBM SPSS Statistics 23 program. Results: A review of the newly registered lung cancer epidemic in Ulaanbaatar from 2014-2022 has observed an increase in the number of new cases recorded in Songinokhairkhan, Sukhbaatar, Khan-Uul, and Baganuur districts in those years and in recent years in the Bayanzurkh and Sukhbaatar districts. Men were three times more likely than women to develop lung cancer, with new cases and deaths highest in the 55-69 age group. The cancer diagnosis was diagnosed using imaging devices. Of the total cases diagnosed, 9 out of every 10 people diagnosed are diagnosed later, or 3.4 per cent, and 69.5 per cent are diagnosed with jumping stages. Conclusion Although the number of new cases and deaths among the population of Ulaanbaatar is relatively lower than the national average, there has been an increasing trend in recent years.