1.Detection of staphylococcus aureus and determination of antibiotic susceptibility from healthcare workers’ nasal swabs
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2026;215(1):75-84
Background:
Healthcare workers play a key role in the transmission of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus
aureus (MRSA) in healthcare settings. Staphylococcus aureus is a major cause of healthcare
associated infections, including surgical site infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia,
and bloodstream infections.
The anterior nares serve as an important reservoir for this pathogen, facilitating its spread
within healthcare environments. In recent years, the rising prevalence of antimicrobial
resistance has become a major public health concern, leading to increased morbidity,
mortality, and healthcare costs.
Therefore, assessing nasal carriage and antimicrobial resistance patterns among healthcare
workers is essential for effective infection prevention and control.
Objective:
To detect Staphylococcus aureus from nasal swabs of healthcare workers and to determine
its antimicrobial susceptibility profile, with a particular focus on resistant strains.
Materials and Methods:
This descriptive cross-sectional study included 159 healthcare workers from six private
hospitals in Songino Khairkhan district. Nasal vestibule swabs were collected and cultured
on 5% blood agar and CHROMagar™ MRSA. Bacterial identification was performed using
conventional microbiological techniques and API identification systems. Antimicrobial
susceptibility testing was conducted using the disk diffusion method and interpreted according
to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Statistical analysis was
performed using SPSS version 24. The study protocol was submitted to and approved by the
Research Ethics Subcommittee of “Ach” Medical University on November 11, 2025. Written
informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to sample collection.
Results:
A total of 159 nasal swabs were collected from healthcare workers, from which 58 (36.5%)
bacterial strains were isolated. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent pathogen,
accounting for 50 (86.2%) of the total isolates, representing an overall carrier rate of 31.4%
(50/159) among the participants. Other identified species included Enterococcus spp. (n=5, 8.6%), Streptococcus viridans (n=2, 3.4%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n=1, 1.7%).
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that 76% (n=38) of the S. aureus isolates
were Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and 21% (n=10) were Multi-Drug Resistant
(MDR). Additionally, Vancomycin-Resistant S. aureus (VRSA) and Vancomycin-Resistant
Enterococci (VRE) were each detected at a rate of 0.6%
Conclusion
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria were identified in 44 (27.7%) of samples collected from healthcare
workers, indicating the presence of multidrug resistance.
The detection of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), along with vancomycin
resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA), among healthcare workers indicates a potential
risk for the dissemination of highly resistant pathogens.
2.Familial cerebral cavernous malformations
Dembereldorj S ; Dungar-Yaichil S ; Uurtsaikh G ; Otgonbayar B ; Altantsetseg Ts ; Lkhamtsoo N
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;91(1):245-251
Background:
Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) present with varied symptoms and are diagnosed only on MRI, which shows characteristic appearances. Genetic factors play a role, with familial cases following an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern.
Case:
This is the clinical case of a 48-year-old woman with a history of long-standing arterial hypertension. She was admitted to the Stroke Department with headache, nausea, vomiting, right-sided sensory disturbance, and dysarthria. Based on the clinical presentation and MRI, multiple supra- and infratentorial and intraxial lesions with heterogeneous components were identified, exhibiting hypointense rings on T1- and T2-weighted sequences and a “blooming” effect on T2*/GRE sequences, characteristic of cerebral cavernomas, displaying a “popcorn” appearance.
Conclusion
In CCM, management requires a multidisciplinary approach, with surgical resection the gold standard for symptomatic cases. Accurate determination of familial or sporadic origin is crucial for tailored treatment.
3.Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma
Nandinbayar M ; Lkhagvasuren S ; Otgonbayar B ; Altantsetseg Ts ; Lkhamtsoo N
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;91(1):257-263
Background:
Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare form of extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma that is confined to the brain, spinal cord, leptomeninges, or eyes.
Case:
Our patient was a 52-year-old immunocompetent male who presented with progressive ataxia, dizziness, weakness and pain in both legs, imbalance, nausea, bladder/bowel retention and fever for over 18 months. After repetitive brain and spinal MRI, he was diagnosed with encephalomeningomyelitis and received four courses of steroid therapy, but his clinical symptoms continued to worsen. He was unable to undergo brain tissue analysis due to his persistent fever. We present a case of PCNSL based on the history, clinical presentation, repeated brain imaging, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and clinical treatment.
Conclusion
Early diagnosis through accurate interpretation of imaging and timely management is crucial for improved outcomes in PCNSL.
4.Detection of the tuberculosis and influencing factors (Literature Review)
Saranchimeg B ; Altantsetseg D ; Burmaajav B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2026;216(2):67-81
This literature review provides a comprehensive synthesis of empirical research on
tuberculosis (TB) case detection mechanisms, transmission dynamics, and associated risk
factors, examining diverse epidemiological contexts across the United States, the United
Kingdom, India, the Netherlands, the Dominican Republic, and Mongolia.
Specifically, the selected literature evaluates the differential transmission potential between
smear-positive and smear-negative cases, quantifies secondary infection risks among close
contacts, and examines the clinical utility of advanced molecular diagnostics.
The analyzed data draw upon a substantial body of empirical evidence spanning six decades,
focusing primarily on the timeline from 1960 to 2020. By integrating both international and
national research findings, this review highlights the significance of early tuberculosis
detection and clarifies patterns of disease transmission.
5.Lipid ratios and their associations with metabolic risk factors among university students
Altantsetseg U ; Oyungoo B ; Ganbaatar B ; Enkhtuguldur M
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;97(7):123-127
Background:
Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, excess body weight, central obesity, and metabolic alterations during young adulthood may increase cardiovascular risk later in life. In addition to conventional lipid parameters, the triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C), total cholesterol-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TC/HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C/HDL-C) ratios have been investigated as additional indicators of alterations in lipid metabolism and atherogenic risk. Although lipid parameters and metabolic risk factors have been investigated among university students in Mongolia, assessment of metabolic risk among nursing students is of practical importance because of the characteristics of their future professional roles. This provided the rationale for the present study.
Aim:
To determine peripheral blood lipid ratios among students of the School of Nursing, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS), and assess their associations with selected metabolic risk factors.
Materials and Methods:
An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 98 first- to fourth-year students aged 18–24 years. Data were collected using a 33-item structured questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure measurements, and peripheral blood biochemical testing. Total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and glucose were measured using a Sinocare portable analyzer, and TG/HDL-C, TC/HDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C ratios were calculated. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured using standardized procedures. Differences between groups were assessed using the Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests, and associations between variables were evaluated using Spearman’s correlation analysis. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results:
The mean age of the participants was 20.85±1.52 years, and 75.5% were female. Mean TC, TG, HDL-C, and LDL-C levels were 3.69±0.75, 1.17±0.67, 1.24±0.38, and 2.00±0.65 mmol/L, respectively. Mean TG/HDL-C, TC/HDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C ratios were 1.06±0.92, 3.28±0.87, and 1.80±0.66, respectively. Mean BMI was 22.93±4.11 kg/m², waist circumference was 75.96±11.28 cm, glucose was 5.63±0.72 mmol/L, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure were 113.31±9.88 and 70.72±8.49 mmHg, respectively. The TG/HDL-C ratio was positively correlated with BMI (rₛ=0.336), waist circumference (rₛ=0.381), glucose (rₛ=0.278), systolic blood pressure (rₛ=0.294), and diastolic blood pressure (rₛ=0.322). The TC/HDL-C ratio was significantly associated with BMI, waist circumference, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure, whereas the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio was significantly associated with waist circumference and systolic blood pressure. Waist circumference was significantly associated with all three lipid ratios, with the strongest correlation observed for TC/HDL-C (rₛ=0.485, p<0.001).
Conclusion
BMI, waist circumference, glucose, and selected blood pressure measures were positively associated with lipid ratios among the study participants. In particular, waist circumference was significantly associated with all three lipid ratios: TG/HDL-C, TC/HDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C. These findings indicate the importance of considering waist circumference and lipid parameters in addition to BMI when assessing metabolic risk among university students.
6.Histology of the fetal lungs at the different gestational age
Talalaev A G ; Davidov I S ; Oyungerel S ; Tumenbayar B ; Javzandulam E ; Khulan B ; Altantsetseg B ; Mandakh-Erdene B ; Nyamsuren P ; Chimegsaikhan S
Diagnosis 2025;115(4):11-16
The study is devoted to the morphological characteristics of the maturation of lung tissue structures in the fetal period. Fetal histology of the lungs presents the intrauterine development of lung tissue in four successive stages: pseudoglandular, canalicular, saccular and alveolar, each has specific morphological criteria. The following morphological features are predetermined: the development of alveolar epithelium, the ratio of mesenchyme towards the area in alveolar spaces, the degree of proliferation and location of vessels of the microcirculatory bed towards prealveolar partitions. During the fetal period the alveolar columnar epithelium is flattened and differentiates into alveolocytes type I lung histology with the demonstration of histological preparations of the lungs at different stages of intrauterine development. Keywords: fetal lungs, prealveolar structures, pseudoglandular stage, canalicular stage, alveolar stage, alveolar capillary membrane, immunohistochemical study. 16 and II, the area of the mesenchyme gradually decreases and by the birth of a full-term newborn kid it is present mainly in the thickness between the alveolar septa, microcirculation vessels, initially laying deep in the thickness of the mesenchymal tissue, gradually proliferate, approach the pre-alveolar epithelium, channeling it with the formation of alveolar capillary membranes. Air exchange in the lung tissue is mainly provided with two factors: the presence of second-order alveolocytes capable of producing surfactant, and a sufficient formation of alveolias well. This work summarizes the basics of fetal lung histology with the demonstration of histological preparations of the lungs at different stages of intrauterine development.
7.Modern advances in epilepsy treatment and diagnosis
Otgonbayar B ; Oyungerel S ; Chimegsaihan S ; Javsandulam E ; Khulan B ; Altantsetseg B ; Mandakh-Erdene B ; Oyun-Erdene S ; Suvd N ; Tumenbayar B
Diagnosis 2025;113(2):35-39
Abstract
Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, affects millions of people worldwide. Significant advancements in both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches have greatly improved outcomes, particularly for individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy. Modern neurostimulation techniques such as Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS), Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), and Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing seizure frequency in these patients. Additionally, emerging technologies like gene therapy and optogenetics are being explored to better understand the underlying mechanisms of epilepsy and hold promise as future treatment modalities.Traditional imaging techniques often fail to detect subtle epileptogenic zones. However, the introduction of ultra high-field 7T MRI scanners represents a major breakthrough. These advanced scanners use eight transmitters to generate higher-resolution images, reducing signal dropout and enabling the identification of previously undetected lesions. In one study involving 31 patients, 58% had their treatment plans modified based on 7T MRI findings, highlighting its potential to inform surgical decision-making. In terms of pharmacological treatment, newer medications such as sultiame, cannabidiol (CBD), and non-pharmacological approaches like the ketogenic diet have emerged as additional therapeutic options for drug-resistant epilepsy. These developments contribute to more effective, personalized management strategies for epilepsy. In summary, the landscape of epilepsy diagnosis and treatment is rapidly evolving. Innovations in imaging and therapeutic interventions are offering new hope for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Ongoing research and clinical trials remain essential to further refine these approaches and improve patient outcomes.
8.Sacral agenesis in 1 day old neonate : A case report
Odonbayar Kh ; Altantsetseg S ; Amgalan B
Diagnosis 2025;113(2):98-104
:
We report a case of a 1-day-old neonate presenting with classic clinical and radiologic features of sacral agenesis, a rare congenital disorder. Early identification and multidisciplinary management are critical to improving outcomes.
Case Presentation :
A full-term, 1-day-old infant was examined for multiple congenital deformities. Physical f indings included a large head, round eyes, and a shallow chest. The lower limbs were short, internally rotated, and stiff, with minimal mobility at the hip and knee joints. External rotation of the hips was not possible, and both feet were turned inward. A CT scan of the lumbar spine (without contrast) revealed normal cervical and thoracic vertebrae. However, one thoracic vertebra showed an unclear structure. At the spine’s end, a 2.0 × 1.5 × 1.1 cm spindle shaped mass with a density of +14 to +27 HU was seen under the skin on the right. The pelvis appeared underdeveloped, with an incomplete oblique fracture of the upper right midshaft femur. Upright radiography confirmed underdeveloped pelvic bones. The medial malleolus and tibia appeared symmetrical bilaterally.
Epidemiology:
Sacral agenesis (caudal regression syndrome) is a rare congenital condition with an estimated incidence of 1 in 100,000 live births. It is more common in infants born to mothers with pregestational diabetes, although it can occur sporadically. Both genetic and environmental factors may contribute.[11]
Discussion :
Sacral agenesis results from abnormal development of the caudal mesoderm during early embryogenesis, leading to partial or complete absence of the sacrum and sometimes lumbar spine. The severity ranges from isolated sacral agenesis to complete lumbosacral agenesis with associated genitourinary, gastrointestinal, and limb deformities. [8-10].
The current case presented with classic signs: bilateral lower limb deformities, limited joint mobility, underdeveloped pelvis, and a spinal abnormality. The presence of a spindle-shaped subcutaneous mass may represent a lipoma or associated spinal dysraphism. The incomplete femoral fracture may be due to birth trauma in the context of fragile bones or abnormal limb positioning.
Early imaging helps confirm the diagnosis and evaluate associated anomalies. Management typically involves orthopedic, neurologic, and urologic interventions. Long-term care focuses on mobility, continence, and developmental support. [13,14].
Conclusion:
This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing sacral agenesis at birth through clinical examination and radiological imaging. Although rare, early diagnosis is vital for implementing supportive care and planning multidisciplinary interventions. Close follow-up is essential to monitor motor development and prevent complications.
Ethical Considerations (EHT) :
Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board. Parental consent was secured for the publication of clinical data and images. All procedures followed ethical standards of clinical care and the Helsinki Declaration. Confidentiality of patient information has been maintained throughout the report. No invasive procedures beyond standard diagnostics were performed.
Acknowledgments
The authors thank the Neonatology and Radiology Departments of Regional Diagnostic Center of Umnugovi Province for their contributions to the diagnosis and imaging. We also appreciate the cooperation of the child’s family and the medical ethics committee for guidance and approval. Special acknowledgment to the Division of Pediatric Neonatologists for their early intervention planning and support.
9.Changes in rat behavior, lung, and hippocampal effects due to vaping exposure
Oyungerel S ; Tumenbayar B ; Javzandulam B ; Chimegsaikhan S ; Khulan B ; Altantsetseg B ; Mandakh-erdene B ; Munkhsoyol E
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;87(3):141-146
Background:
Nicotine-containing vaporized liquids—composed of
propylene glycol, glycerin, water, flavorings, and the thickening agent
vitamin E acetate—have been implicated in the development of EVALI.
Under conditions of low liquid levels and overheating, these substances
release toxic carbonyl compounds (e.g., formaldehyde, acetaldehyde,
acrolein). In a 2019 national survey, 3.5% of adolescents aged 13–15
reported cigarette use, and 10% used e-cigarettes.
Aim:
To study the changes in the behavior, lung, and hippocampal
structures of rats due to the effects of electronic cigarettes and their
vapor.
Materials and Methods:
In this study, nineteen 14-day-old SHR rats
were exposed to 1 g/mg/day of nicotine and dry hit vapor (control, nicotine
and dry hit groups) for four weeks. Behavioral assessments (Open
Field Test, Elevated Plus Maze, Conditioned Place Preference), bronchoalveolar
lavage (BAL), and histological analysis of lung and hippocampal
tissue were conducted.
Results:
The dry hit vapor group showed significantly reduced body
weight (p=0.034), increased anxiety (p=0.006, p=0.025), and avoidance
of the smoky chamber. BAL revealed elevated total cells, neutrophils,
and macrophages (p=0.01, p=0.04) in both nicotine and dry hit groups.
Lung tissue exhibited alveolar septal thickening, inflammation, and emphysema-
like changes. Extensive neuronal death was observed in the
hippocampus.
Conclusion
Anxiety-like behavior was observed in both the burn and
control groups. Analysis of BAL in the dry hit group revealed inflammation
predominantly characterized by macrophage infiltration. Histological
examination of lung tissue from both experimental groups
demonstrated a reduction in the number of alveoli, accompanied by
acute inflammation and thickening of the interalveolar septa. In the hippocampal
region, neuronal loss and a reduction in neuronal density
were also observed.
10.Study of technology for obtaining granular medicine form from Hepaclin-4 prescription
Baasanpurev L ; Byambasuren G ; Ulambayar B ; Tungalag N ; Altantsetseg A ; Adilbish A ; Enkhsaikhan M ; Batbyamba M ; Tsetsegmaa S ; Tserentsoo B ; Altansukh Ts ; Tserendolgor B
Mongolian Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2024;25(2):38-44
Introduction:
Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, which is used in traditional medicine, has the ability to
remove blood-drying heat. Chiazospermum erectum Bernh. has the ability to relieve typhoid fever and
poison fever. Carthamus tinctorius L. has antiseptic, analgesic and anti-toxic properties. Saussurea amara
L. has bactericidal, anti-infective, and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers found that the Hepaclin-4
recipe has antioxidant, membrane-strengthening, liver-protective, necrosis-preventing, detoxification, and
peroxidation product accumulation-reducing properties. Therefore, extracting the granular medicine form
from the concentrated extract containing the Hepaclin-4 formulation is the basis of our research work.
Goal:
To obtain the granular medicine form from the concentrated extract containing ingredients of the
Hepaclin-4 recipe.
Materials and Methods:
The research was carried out with the support of the Institute of Pharmaceutical
Research and the University of Pharmaceutical Sciences. The raw materials for the Hepaclin-4 formula were extracted by remaceration with water, 40% ethanol, and 70% ethanol (1:10 ratio). Six types of granules were extracted from the concentrated extract using several excipients by the wet granulation method, and the pouring weight and flowability were determined.
Results:
The quality index of the concentrated extract of the Hepaclin-4 recipe complies with the standards
outlined in the 11th Pharmacopoeia of the National Pharmacopoeia of Mongolia. In qualitative analysis of
total flavonoid, spots were detected at the same level as standard quercetin (Rf=0.88) and rutin (Rf=0.4),
indicating the presence of flavonoids. According to the results of the above research, lactose was found to
be the suitable filler for extracting granules, and starch at 8% was identified as the appropriate binding agent from the concentrated extract of the Hepaclin-4 formula.
Conclusion
It was found suitable to select 8% lactose as a filler and starch as a binding agent from the concentrated extract of the Hepaclin-4 formula and obtain a granule drug form using the wet granulation
method.
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