Background: Panzerina lanata (L.) is widely distributed across various ecosystems in the mountain, steppe, and Gobi regions of Mongolia and has traditionally been used in folk medicine to alleviate joint and muscle inflammation, reduce liver heat, lower blood pressure, promote diuresis, and treat edema and tumors. Its similar applications in Mongolian and Chinese traditional medicine suggest considerable therapeutic potential and biological activity. Studies conducted since 2019 have reported that P.lanata (L.) is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant-active constituents; however, studies on the microscopic and histochemical characteristics of the species growing under Mongolian conditions remain limited, providing the rationale for this study. Aim: To characterize the microscopic features of Panzerina lanata (L.), determine the distribution of starch, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds using histochemical methods, and evaluate the total polyphenol and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: For microscopic analysis, plant materials were softened by soaking for 24 h in a 1:1:1 water–ethanol–glycerin mixture (Strich–Fleming solution), followed by preparation of manual transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems, roots, and petals. A 10% chloral hydrate solution was used for clearing. Histochemical analyses were performed using potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇), ferric chloride (FeCl₃), Lugol’s solution (I₂/KI), thymol (C₁₀H₁₄O) with concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), methylene blue (C₁₆H₁₈ClN₃S), and Dragendorff’s reagent. The prepared sections were cleared with glycerin and examined under an Olympus light microscope at ×40 and ×100 magnifications, with images documented using a 12-MP camera. Result: Microscopic examination of the roots, stems, and petals revealed that the root stele exhibited a polyarchy arrangement, with clearly differentiated xylem, phloem, and cambial tissues in both transverse and longitudinal sections. Scalariform tracheary elements in the xylem contributed to water and mineral transport and mechanical support. The stem xylem contained both spiral and scalariform tracheary elements. The petals consisted of cells with double walls and single nuclei, while the floral seed tissue was composed of meristematic tissue associated with continuous cell division, growth, and tissue differentiation. Histochemical analysis of transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems and roots, as well as petal sections, revealed the presence of essential oils, polyphenolic compounds (tannins and flavonoids), and starch. Conclusion Microscopic, histochemical, and phytochemical analyses of Panzerina lanata (L.) revealed the presence of biologically active compounds, indicating its potential for use in the quality evaluation of medicinal plant raw materials.

Background: Numerous experimental and clinical studies have investigated the therapeutic potential of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn., mainly attributing its biological activities to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and hepatoprotective effects. In particular, silymarin has been reported to exert hepatoprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress, protecting cell membranes from certain toxic insults, and modulating protein synthesis. Therefore, cultivation of S. marianum and utilization of its seeds for industrial and research purposes are important for establishing a sustainable source of pharmacologically valuable bioactive compounds and increasing the availability of high-quality medicinal plant material. Aim: To evaluate the feasibility of cultivating S. marianum from seeds and to determine seed germination, seedling growth and development, survival after transplantation to open-field conditions, phenological stages, and seed yield characteristics. Materials and Methods: Seeds of S. marianum were germinated under indoor conditions, and normally developed seedlings were subsequently raised in a greenhouse and transplanted to a cultivation site near Tamgan Öndör, Erdene sum, Töv Province, Mongolia. Germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT), seedling growth based on morphometric parameters, and survival rate after transplantation were evaluated. At harvest, the number and diameter of capitula, seed weight per plant, 1000-seed weight, and seed yield per unit area were determined. Data were expressed as mean±SD, and statistical significance was evaluated at p < 0.05. Result: Of the 1,000 seeds sown, 852 germinated, resulting in a germination percentage of 85.2% and a mean germination time of 11 days. Under greenhouse conditions, plant height increased from 1.0 to 3.0 cm, while rosette diameter increased from 1.2 to 7.0 cm. Of the 452 seedlings transplanted to the open field, 353 survived, corresponding to a survival rate of 78.1%. The first flowering was observed on June 12, full flowering on July 9, and full seed maturation on August 30, with 175 days from sowing to seed maturity. On average, each plant produced 18 branches and 20 capitula, with a capitulum diameter of 4.4 cm, seed weight per plant of 15.5 g, 1000-seed weight of 11.5 g, and seed yield of 195.325 kg/ha. Conclusion S. marianum was able to germinate, establish, complete its major growth, flowering, and seed maturation stages, and produce seeds under the cultivation conditions of the Tamgan Öndör area, Erdene sum, Töv Province. These findings indicate that S. marianum can potentially be cultivated in this specific area as a source of medicinal plant material.

Background: The patients’ view, perception, and evaluation of illness as an individual, as well as their emotional and behavioral responses, are among the criteria predicting the QoL. Increased illness perception and adjustment are emphasized to ensure patients to return to their active life after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) continue their lives more healthily, and have higher levels of physical, mental, and social well-being. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the illness perception and quality of life of patients who had an AMI. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study included 100 patients diagnosed with AMI at the cardiology department of Third State Central Hospital and Second State Central Hospitals. The data were collected using Illness Perception Questionnaire-Revised and Myocardial Infarction Dimensional Assessment Scale. Result: The mean age of the patients with AMI was 52.2±12.01 years, and 51% were male. Among the subscales of the illness perception questionnaire, the highest mean score was observed for Illness Identity (13.99±5.01), while Treatment Control (19.10±3.18) had the lowest. The lowest score was for Illness Coherence (10.31±2.16). The overall Myocardial Infarction Dimensional Assessment Scale score (43.00±13.10) of the patients was observed to be moderate. The Illness Perception Questionnaire-Revised subdimensions were observed to have a positive and significant correlation with Myocardial Infarction Dimensional Assessment Scale total score and subscales mean scores. Regression analysis revealed that Illness Coherence and Emotional Representation were significant predictors of QOL. Patients scoring high in these areas reported better QOL. Patients with recurrent infarctions showed significantly lower scores in quality of life (t=-2.234, (p=0.029) and illness perception (t=-3.809, p=.001). Conclusion The study demonstrates that illness perception in AMI patients has a significant positive relationship with their quality of life. Specifically, understanding of the illness and emotional representation were key predictors of better quality of life. This suggests that nursing care and psychosocial support targeting patient understanding and emotional coping can play a crucial role in improving post-infarction quality of life.

Background: In recent years, the research and utilization of natural products and medicinal plants have significantly increased worldwide, alongside efforts to integrate traditional medicine with modern medical practices. Approximately 1,100 medicinal plant species are found in Mongolia, including 32 species belonging to the Papaveraceae family. Among them, Papaver nudicaule L. is widely distributed across various phytogeographical regions of Mongolia. Traditionally, this plant has been used to treat headaches, neuralgia, menstrual pain, dysentery, and gastrointestinal inflammation. However, studies on its chemical composition and biologically active constituents remain relatively limited. Therefore, investigating the phytochemical composition of this plant is essential for characterizing its medicinal raw materials and identifying its bioactive compounds. Aim: To investigate the phytochemical composition of the aerial parts of Papaver nudicaule L. Materials and Methods: The aerial parts of the plant were collected during the full flowering stage and subjected to fractionation using centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC). The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated using spectroscopic techniques, including ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, HSQC, COSY, and HMBC. Result: A total of 27 compounds were identified and characterized from the aerial parts of Papaver nudicaule L. using CPC and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Conclusion Twenty-seven compounds were identified from the aerial parts of Papaver nudicaule L., and their structures were elucidated. Among them, magnocurarine ((1R)-1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)methyl6-methoxy-2,2-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-isoquinolin-2-ium-7-ol), norcoclaurine (S-norcoclaurine), N-methylcanadine ((S)-N-methylcanadine), canadine (N-methylchelianthifoline), luteolin (3′,4′,5,7-tetrahydroxyflavone), and dihydrocryptopine (5,6,7,8-tetrahydrocryptopine) were reported for the first time from this species.

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: Bone mineral density (BMD) is a key indicator reflecting bone strength and resistance to fracture. It is influenced by multiple factors, including age, sex, genetic background, body composition, nutrition, and physical activity. During young adulthood, peak bone mass is actively formed; therefore, identifying early variations in this period is essential for predicting future skeletal health risks. Accordingly, assessing BMD and evaluating its relationship with physical characteristics among first-year nursing students provides a scientific rationale for this study. Aim: To examine the relationship between bone mineral density and selected physical parameters among students. Materials and Methods: A total of 297 first-year students aged 17-35 years from the School of Nursing, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences were included. Bone mineral density was assessed by measuring the speed of sound through the radius using an ultrasound bone densitometry device. Handgrip strength was measured using an electronic dynamometer. Physical parameters including age, sex, height, and body weight were measured using standardized procedures, and statistical analysis was performed. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of MNUMS on November 21, 2025 (No. 26/1) and March 28, 2026 (No. 26/03-B02), with no ethical violations identified. Results: According to T-scores, 37.1% (n=110) of participants had normal bone status and 62.9% (n=187) showed reduced bone density. Based on Z-scores, 52.5% (n=159) were normal, while 45.6% (n=138) had decreased values. T-score values were 1.87±0.69 (<20 years), 1.44±0.55 (20–30 years), and 1.10±0.31 (>30 years), while Z-score values were −0.73±1.38, −0.43±1.23, and −0.02±1.27, respectively. ANOVA analysis revealed statistically significant differences among age groups (p<0.01). A positive correlation was observed between T-score and age, whereas no significant correlations were found with other physical parameters. Z-score showed a positive correlation with handgrip strength. Conclusions 1. A high prevalence of reduced bone mineral density was observed among the students, which may be associated with incomplete attainment of peak bone mass in adolescents and young adults. 2. A significant difference in bone mineral density was found between age groups (p<0.01), indicating that age is an important factor influencing bone mineral density.

Background: Population health literacy constitutes a comprehensive competency to access, understand, appraise, and apply health information, serving as a foundational prerequisite for disease prevention frameworks. Within primary healthcare settings, nursing counseling plays a pivotal role in fostering healthy behaviors among citizens; however, there remains a critical need to quantitatively evaluate the correlation between these behavioral modifications and health literacy, thereby establishing an evidence-based analysis. Aim: To assess the level of health literacy and healthy lifestyle habits among citizens, and to evaluate their correlation with nursing counseling and support. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional analytic study was conducted between August and September 2026, enrolling 145 citizens aged 18 and older who received care at the Tsetsekhairkhan Family Health Center of Songinokhairkhan district, Ulaanbaatar city and Telmen Soum Health Center in Zavkhan Province. HL was evaluated using the Mongolian version of the HLS-EU-Q16 questionnaire, and total scores were calculated. Nursing involvement was evaluated via a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 21.0, utilizing logistic regression analysis to determine Odds Ratios (OR) and p-values. Results: The mean HLS-EU-Q16 score of the participants (n=145) was 10.4±3.2. Regarding HL level distribution, 42.1% (n=61) were inadequate, 34.5% (n=50) were problematic/limited, and 23.4% (n=34) possessed sufficient health literacy. Participants perceived nursing support as highly influential (58.8%) and moderately influential (29.8%) in adopting healthy habits. Regular recipients of health counseling from nurses demonstrated a 3.79-fold higher likelihood of actively pursuing a healthy lifestyle (OR=3.79, 95% CI: 1.84–7.81, p=0.001) and a 3.05-fold higher likelihood of implementing the counseling into practice (OR=3.05, 95% CI: 1.35–6.88, p=0.0076). Conclusion Although citizens exhibit a limited capacity to independently search for and appraise health information—reflecting an overall inadequate level of HL—nurse-led counseling and support exert a direct, statistically significant positive impact on enhancing healthy behaviors among citizens.

Background: Currently, the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has led to reduced therapeutic efficacy in severe infections such as osteomyelitis. Furthermore, broad spectrum synthetic antibiotics disrupt microbiome balance and weaken the host immune system. Therefore, given the need to investigate natural biologically active supplements that inhibit pathogens without adversely affecting the viability of beneficial microorganisms supported by experimental and clinical studies this study was grounded in determining the effects of the Osteo Calcium-5 supplement on pathogenic and beneficial bacteria Aim: To investigate the in vitro effects of the biologically active supplement Osteo Calcium-5 on pathogenic and beneficial bacteria. Objectives: To determine the antibacterial activity of the biologically active supplement Osteo Calcium-5 by measuring the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and the diameter of the inhibition zone. To compare the effects of the Osteo Calcium-5 supplement on the growth of pathogenic and beneficial bacteria, and to evaluate the levels of selective activity and resistance. Materials and Methods: The study was performed using a quantitative research approach with an experimental research design, utilizing two standard pathogenic bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 12600 and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ATCC 700699 along with two standard beneficial bacterial strains, Lactobacillus paracasei and Streptococcus thermophilus. The Osteo Calcium-5 supplement was extracted using a solution of 70% ethanol and 0.1% HCl. To determine its antibacterial efficacy, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were assessed in triplicate across a concentration range of 0.78% to 12.5% using the broth microdilution method, and evaluated via the agar well diffusion method based on the inhibition zone diameter. Results: It was established that the extract of the biologically active supplement Osteo Calcium-5 exerts selective effects on the growth of pathogenic versus beneficial bacteria. Specifically, for the pathogenic MRSA strain, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 0.78% and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was 1.56%, whereas for the S.aureus strain, both MIC and MBC values were 1.56%, demonstrating high antibacterial activity with complete inhibition of colony growth at this concentration. In contrast, L.paracasei and S.thermophilus strains grew normally at low concentrations of the supplement, with MIC values ranging from 6.25% to 12.5%, proving to be several fold more resistant than the pathogenic strains. Furthermore, the agar diffusion method showed active inhibition of S.aureus (16.50±0.29mm) and MRSA (15.00-0.58mm) bacterial growth through the formation of inhibition zones, while exhibiting no adverse effects on the growth of the beneficial bacterial strains L.paracasei and S.thermophilus. Conclusions The MIC of the Osteo Calcium-5 supplement was determined to be 0.78% for MRSA and 1.56% for S.aureus, with the MBC for both strains established at 1.56%. Through the agar well method, the supplement actively inhibited the growth of S.aureus (16.50±0.29mm) and MRSA (15.00±0.58mm) by forming inhibition zones, effectively suppressing osteomyelitis inducing pathogens at low concentrations via mechanisms including bacterial cell wall and membrane disruption and virulence neutralization. For the beneficial bacterial strains L.paracasei and S.thermophilus, the MIC values of the supplement extract ranged from 6.25% to 12.5%, allowing normal growth at low concentrations without forming inhibition zones. This indicates a significantly higher resistance to the supplement compared to pathogens, proving its unique capability to selectively inhibit infections without disrupting the balance of the human normal microbiome.

Background: The discovery of insulin over a century ago significantly advanced the treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM). Effective glycemic control in patients on insulin therapy is influenced by a variety of factors. While developed countries have transitioned fully to insulin analogs, abandoning recombinant insulin, Mongolia lacks comprehensive research on how different insulin formulations influence glycemic control. This gap highlights the need for targeted improvements in therapy effectiveness and service quality. Materials and methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at the Central Hospital of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, including 183 diabetic patients aged 18-65 years. Participants were managed by endocrinologists and participated in a survey consisting of 44 questions alongside physical measurements. Data were 78 analyzed using SPSS version 25, with a significance threshold of p<0.05. Results: The study population had a mean age of 56.7 ± 11.0 years, with 55.2% (n=101) males. The mean duration of diagnosed DM was 12.6 ± 6.33 years, and the mean duration since the initiation of insulin therapy was 6.77 (1-24) years. The mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was 10.5%, with 87.4% of the participants categorized under poor glycemic control and only 5.5% maintaining optimal levels. Insulin usage was predominantly recombinant (60.7%), with analogue at 32.2%, and mixed regimens at 7.1%. Usage of insulin pens was reported by 43.2% of the participants. The daily insulin dosage ranged from 10 to 71 units, averaging 37.2 ± 13.7 units. Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed that inadequate knowledge about insulin therapy is an independent risk factor (OR; 95% CI = 1.48; 1.21 10.32). When adjusting for confounding factors, the average glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in the group with inadequate knowledge was significantly higher (11.8%) compared to the group with adequate knowledge, where it was significantly lower (10.2%). Conclusion The use of analog insulin among patients with type 2 diabetes undergoing insulin therapy is relatively low (32%), and glycemic control is poor (87%). Therefore, it is necessary to increase the use of analog insulin and improve glycemic control. Inadequate knowledge about insulin therapy negatively affects glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (OR; 95% CI = 1.48; 1.21-10.32). Therefore, it is essential to enhance patients’ knowledge.

Background: Saponins are secondary metabolites in plants that play an important role in defense mechanisms and physiological processes. Since stomatal cells are crucial for gas exchange and water balance in plant tissues, studying the anatomical and biochemical features of stomatal cells in saponin-rich plant species provides insight into the interactions between these compounds and cellular mechanisms. This serves as the basis of our study. Aim: To determine the structure, types, and functions of stomatal cells in saponin-containing medicinal plants Materials and Methods: During June–September 2024, nine species of saponin-containing medicinal plants were collected from Bulgan, Tuv provinces, and “Gorkhi-Terelj National Park” in Mongolia. Prepared microscopic specimens were examined using macroscopic and microscopic techniques to study the structure, position, number, and epidermal features of stomatal cells. Results: The study revealed that Anemone crinita Juz. exhibited the highest stomatal density (107 stomata/mm²) and epidermal cell density (229 cells/mm²), indicating strong adaptation and protective capacity in arid conditions. Vicia baicalensis (Turcz.) B. Fedtsch. showed the highest stomatal index (39.6), highlighting its significant role in regulating transpiration. Stomatal types varied among species: • Anomocytic stomata were observed in Potentilla multifida and Vicia baicalensis. • Anisocytic stomata were found in Delphinium grandiflorum and Ranunculus borealis. • Paracytic stomata were present in Gentiana algida, Adenophora remotiflora, Helianthemum nummularium, Anemone crinita, and Ranunculus acris. Conclution In the study of the structure, form, and number of stomatal cells in saponin-containing plants growing in Mongolia, Anemone crinita Juz. was found to have the highest number of stomatal and epidermal cells, indicating its high efficiency in gas exchange, water regulation, and protection against external stress. Furthermore, Vicia baicalensis (Turcz.) B.Fedtsch. showed the highest stomatal index, confirming its strong capacity for active regulation of gas exchange. The variation in stomatal cell types among plant species was identified as playing an important role in ecological and biological adaptation as well as protective mechanisms.