1. Establishment and evaluation of a lung metastasis model of colorectal cancer in experimental animals
Anujin D ; Manaljav B ; Barsbold M ; Altanchimeg Ch ; Otgonsuren B ; Khuselt-Od T ; Suvd-Erdene U ; Enkhsaikhan L ; Gansukh Ch ; Juramt B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):19-23
Background:
Currently, colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most common cancer and the second leading cause
of cancer-related mortality worldwide. CRC frequently metastasizes to the liver (50%), lungs (10–15%), peritoneum
(4%), bones (10.7%–23.7%), brain (0.3%–6%), and spinal cord. Approximately 35% of CRC cases are diagnosed before
distant metastasis, 36% upon lymph node involvement, and 23% after distant organ metastasis. Although several studies
have established primary tumor models in mice in our country, there are limited studies on experimental lung metastasis
models, prompting the need for this research.
Aim:
To establish and evaluate a lung metastasis model of colorectal cancer in C57BL/6J mice using the MC38 cell line.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted at the Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences. Approval was obtained from the Ethics Review Board of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (2023/3-09) and all laboratory safety regulations and protocols were strictly followed. Male
C57BL/6J mice bred at the Experimental Animal Center of Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences were
used. MC38 murine colorectal carcinoma cells were cultured and injected intravenously (via the tail vein) at a concentration of 0.25×10⁶ cells per mouse (n=12) to induce lung metastasis. Histological analysis was subsequently performed.
Results:
Histological examination revealed significant alterations in lung tissue architecture, characterized by areas of
dense infiltration by pleomorphic, hyperchromatic cells, disrupting the normal alveolar structure. No histological abnormalities were observed in other organs.
Conclusion
Intravenous injection of MC38 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells into the tail vein of C57BL/6J mice successfully induced lung metastases, characterized by hyperchromatic, pleomorphic cell infiltrates forming glandular structures within the lung parenchyma.
2.Study results of PM1 and PM10 particulate matter concentrations in Ulaanbaatar city’s household environments using low-cost sensors.
Ulziimaa D ; Jargalsaikhan G ; Ser-Od Kh ; Enkhjargal G ; Myagmarchuluun S ; Gantuya D ; Munkh-Erdene L ; Damdindorj B ; Khurelbaatar N ; Davaalkham D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):88-91
Background:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 99 percent of the world’s population is exposed to air
that exceeds WHO recommendations, with low- and middle-income countries being the most affected. The main causes
of indoor air pollution include human activities such as fuel burning, cooking, cleaning, and smoking; housing characteristics such as walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture; ventilation; and outdoor air pollution.
Aim :
To assess PM1 and PM10 concentrations in 120 selected households in Ulaanbaatar.
Materials and Methods :
Indoor PM1 and PM10 concentrations were measured using Purple Air real-time sensors in
randomly selected Ulaanbaatar households between October 2023 and January 2024. Supplementary data on factors affecting the PM2.5 concentration were collected via questionnaires. Each measurement was taken in 10-minute intervals,
yielding 51,309 data for analysis.
Results :
PM1 concentrations were measured at 55.5±53.2 μg/m³ in gers, 54.9 ± 46.7 μg/m³ in houses, and 31.6±40.1 μg//m³ in apartments (p<0.001) and measuring PM10 concentrations were 110.6±108.6 μg/m³ in gers, 110.6±96.7 μg/m³ in
houses, and 62.2±83.0 μg/m³ in apartments (p<0.001) When considering the concentration of PM1, PM10 by heating
type, PM1 was 55.3±50.1 μg/m³ and PM10 was 110.6±103.0 μg/m³ in households with stoves and furnaces, and PM1
was 31.6±40.1 μg/m³ and PM10 was 62.2±83.0 μg/m³ in households connected to the central heating system (p<0.001).
Regarding the months of measurement, the highest concentration was observed in December 2023, at 77.1±94.1 μg/m³. The highest concentrations for both PM₁ and PM₁₀ were recorded in January 2024, at PM₁: 64.8±55.1 μg/m³, PM₁₀:
131.4±116.0 μg/m³.
Conclusion
1. Indoor PM10 concentrations in residential environments in Ulaanbaatar city were within the MNS4585:2016 Air
Quality Standard, however, it was exceeded the WHO air quality guidelines, indicating an excessive risk of increasing morbidity and mortality among the population.
2. Indoor PM1 and PM10 concentrations in residential environments in Ulaanbaatar varies depending on location, type
of housing, type of heating, and month of measurement.
3.Association between malocclusion and symptom of TMD
Ochirbal M ; Batbayar B ; Od B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):171-177
Background:
The first supposition of a possible relationship between occlusion and TMJ (temporomandibular joint)
function was suggested by Costen, who hypothesized that changes in dental condition (loss of vertical dimension) can
lead to symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Symptoms of temporomandibular disorders are more common in women, with a female-to-male ratio ranging from 2:1 to 8:1. Temporomandibular disorders occur in 25-38% of
the general population. The reason for conducting this study is that no research has been conducted in Mongolia on the
relationship between malocclusion and TMJ.
Aim:
This study aimed to investigate the association between malocclusion and temporomandibular disorders.
Materials and Methods:
The study was conducted using a case-control design, and patients requiring orthodontic treat
ment who visited the Orthodontics Department of the Center Hospital of the Dentistry, Mongolian National University of
Medical Sciences were included in the case group, while relatively healthy individuals with normal occlusion who had
not undergone orthodontic treatment were included in the control group. The sample size for each case and control group
was calculated to be 20 people, for a total of 40 people aged 20-30. The need for orthodontic treatment was determined by
the IOTN index (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need). Relatively healthy occlusion was defined according to Andrew’s
six keys. The condition of the temporomandibular joint was determined using a questionnaire and physical examination.
Results:
The mean age of the study participants was 24.4±3.7 years in the malocclusion group and 26.0±3.6 years in
the control group, 45% (n=8) of the malocclusion group were male and 40% (n=9) of the control group were male. The
indicators of malocclusion, such as increased overjet, decreased overjet, increased overbite and mouth breathing were
statistically significantly different between the malocclusion group and the control group (p<0.05). Logistic regression
analysis showed that CII (OR=11.66, p=0.007) and CIII (OR=16.33, p=0.017) occlusion, increased overbite (OR=6.87,
p=0.025) and mouth breathing (OR=4.22, p=0.042) had an impact on the occurrence of TMJ noise in both vertical and
horizontal directions.
Conclusions
1. Among the study participants, Angle’s Class I accounted for 50% (the highest percentage), while Angle’s Class III
accounted for 20% (the lowest percentage). But Angle’s Class II accounted for 30%.
2. Symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder were statistically significantly higher in the case group (p<0.05). 3.
People with Angle’s Class II and Class III were 11-16 times more likely to develop temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
noise, a symptom of TMD, compared to people with normal occlusion.
4.Surgical-orthodontic treatment for skeletal class III correction
Od B ; Otgontuya D ; Davaasuren A ; Bolormaa B ; Urtnasan A ; Purewsuren B ; Gantumur Ts
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;87(3):103-107
Background:
Class III malocclusion is considered to be one of the most difficult
and complex orthodontic problems to treat. For patients whose orthodontic
problems are so severe that neither growth modification nor camouflage offers
solution, surgery to realign the jaws or reposition dentoalveolar segments is
the only possible treatment option left.
Aim:
The treatment objectives were to:
(1) level and align the dental arches; (2) obtain an ideal overbite and overjet,
to establish correct anterior guidance; and (3) improve the facial profile.
Case:
Patient is present with skeletal Class III malocclusion, concave facial profile,
facial proportion 0.96:1:1.04, loss of occlusion due to early molar teeth loss,
molar and canine relationship were Class III, overbite 0 mm, overjet -1 mm,
midline shifted into the 6 mm left side.
Results:
Excellent facial and occlusal
results were achieved with this surgical-orthodontic management, post-treatment
results showed a Class I relationship and ideal overjet and overbite. The
facial profile became straight type.
Conclusion
This case report describes
the treatment of a female with dental and skeletal class III relationships. Surgical-
orthodontic treatment was the best option for achieving an acceptable
occlusion and a good esthetic result in this case. An experienced multidisciplinary
team approach ensures a satisfactory outcome.
5.Indoor Particulate Matter Concentration in Households of Darkhan City
Nyamdorj J ; Bolor M ; Maralmaa E ; Yerkyebulan M ; Ser-Od Kh ; Myagmarchuluun S ; Shatar Sh ; Gantuya D ; Gregory C. Gray ; Junfeng Zhang ; Ulziimaa D ; Damdindorj B ; Khurelbaatar N ; Davaalkham D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):25-29
Background:
A 2018 study on the global burden of disease, accidents, and risk factors reported that 1.6 million peo
ple died in 2017 due to household air pollution. Poor indoor air quality has been highlighted as a contributing factor to
respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and exacerbation of asthma and allergies. A 2019 study estimated that
long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less reduces average life
expectancy by 1.8 years, with more severe effects in highly polluted regions. Additionally, a study by Miller et al. (2007)
found that prolonged exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly among women. Direct
measurement devices are highly effective in determining indoor PM2.5 concentrations, identifying sources of pollution,
tracking pollutant dispersion, and monitoring temporal variations. Studies suggest that direct measurement is an accurate,
cost-effective method that provides detailed data suitable for local conditions.
Aim:
To investigate the indoor air quality of houses and apartments in Darkhan city during the winter season using the
Purple Air monitoring device.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted with a targeted sample of 128 households in Darkhan
city. The study examined factors such as stove type, type of coal used, annual and daily coal consumption, frequency of
heating, and chimney sealing conditions. To collect data, the Purple Air monitoring device was installed in each house
hold for a month, after which it was retrieved. During retrieval, participants completed a questionnaire. The questionnaire
consisted of 55 questions across 7 pages at the time of device installation and 25 questions across 3 pages at the time of
device retrieval. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS 25.0.
Results:
A total of 128 households in Darkhan city participated in the study. The average duration of residence in the
current home was 9.5 years, with no statistically significant variation. The distribution of housing types was as follows:
traditional Mongolian gers (40.6%), houses (39.1%), and apartments (20.3%). The 24-hour average PM2.5 concentration
was highest in gers (70.9 μg/m³), followed by houses (46.8 μg/m³) and apartments (22.8 μg/m³), with a statistically significant difference (p=0.0001). PM2.5 levels were most variable in gers, followed by houses and then apartments. House
holds using central heating (apartments) had an average 24-hour PM2.5 concentration of 22.8 μg/m³, whereas households
using stoves (gers and houses) had a significantly higher concentration of 59.4 μg/m³ (p=0.0001). However, there was
no statistically significant difference between traditional and improved stoves. Among study participants, 21.4% reported
that someone in their household smoked indoors. Additionally, 86.5% regularly burned incense, candles, or herbs, while
99.2% did not use an air purifier.
Conclusion
The indoor particulate matter concentration in houses and gers in Darkhan was 59.4μг/m3. Variations in
stove types, poor chimney sealing limited space, and frequent gaps and cracks contribute to increased spread of indoor
air pollutants.
6.Study on Students’ Eating Behavior and Some Influencing Factors
Zolzaya B ; Altanchimeg D ; Ser-Od KH ; Khandmaa S ; Darambazar G
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):96-101
Backround:
The university period is a unique phase in students’ lives, often marked by independent living, changes in
lifestyle, diet, sleep patterns, increased psychological stress, and the development of unhealthy behaviors. Among students, particularly those studying in the medical field, research on dietary habits and influencing factors is scarce in our
country, which serves as the rationale for this study.
Aim:
The aim of this study is to investigate the dietary habits of medical students and the factors influencing them, including sleep, impulsivity, depression, anxiety, and stress.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 358 students from years 1 to 6 across 7 schools of
the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS). Data were collected using internationally standardized and validated questionnaires, including the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire Revised-18 (TFEQ-R18), the Short
UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale-20 (SUPPS-P-20), the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), and the
Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 25.0.
Results:
In terms of eating behavior, uncontrolled eating (UE) and cognitive restraint (CR) were similar between male
and female students, while emotional eating (EE) was more prevalent among male students. Students’ eating behaviors
were associated with body mass index (BMI). As BMI increased, levels of depression, anxiety, and stress also tended to
rise. Sensation-seeking and positive urgency were higher among female students. Overall, 83.5% of students had poor
sleep quality, which contributed to increased depression, anxiety, stress, and impulsivity. Psychological burden and impulsivity were independent of the field of study but decreased as students progressed through their academic years, while
sleep quality improved.
Conclusion
The dietary habits of medical students were similar across genders but varied by academic year and field
of study. Poor sleep quality, observed in 83.5% of students, was associated with increased depression, anxiety, stress,
and impulsivity. Psychological burden and impulsivity were unrelated to the field of study but decreased with advancing
academic years, alongside improved sleep quality. As BMI increased, cognitive restraint in eating behaviors decreased.
7.Comparative analysis of household indoor PM2.5 concentrations and prevalence of hypertension between cities
Anujin M ; Myagmarchuluun S ; Erkebulan M ; Ser-Od Kh ; Shatar Sh ; Gantuyаa D ; Enkhjargal G ; Munkh-Erdene L ; Gregory C. Gray ; Jungfeng Zhang ; Damdindorj B ; Ulziimaa D ; Davaalkham D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;89(5):5-10
Background:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 6.7 million people die annually due to air pollution
caused by solid fuel use, with the majority of deaths resulting from respiratory diseases and cardiovascular conditions. In
Mongolia, air pollution ranks as the fourth leading risk factor contributing to mortality, following hypertension, diabetes,
and other major health risks. Although there have been numerous studies on outdoor air pollution in Mongolia, research
linking indoor air pollution at the household level with the health status of residents remains limited.
Aim:
To compare indoor PM2.5 concentrations in households of Ulaanbaatar and Darkhan and examine their association
with hypertension during the winter season.
Materials and Methods:
The study was conducted during November and December 2023, and January 2024, involving
240 households in Ulaanbaatar and Darkhan. Indoor PM2.5 concentrations were measured using Purple Air real-time
sensors continuously for 24 hours over approximately one month. After measuring indoor air pollution, individuals aged
18–60 years living in the selected households were recruited based on specific inclusion criteria. Blood pressure was
measured three times and the average value was recorded. Information on respiratory illnesses was collected through
structured questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA version 19.0.
Results:
A total of 241 households participated in the study, with 116 from Ulaanbaatar and 125 from Darkhan. Of the
participants, 46.5% were male and 53.5% were female. In terms of housing type, 96 households (39.8%) lived in gers,
97 (40.2%) lived in stove-heated houses, and 48 (19.9%) lived in apartments. Among all participants, 66.0% (n=159) had
hypertension and 34.0% (n=79) had normal blood pressure. Among participants aged over 40, 69.9–88.5% had hypertension, which is statistically significantly higher compared to younger individuals (p=0.0001). By body mass index, 75.3%
(n=72) of overweight individuals and 78.4% (n=58) of obese participants had hypertension, showing a statistically significant difference compared to participants with normal weight (p=0.0001). The 24-hour average concentration of indoor
PM2.5 was measured using the Purple Air device, and the levels in gers and stove-heated houses exceeded the limit set
by the MNS 4585:2025 standard (37.5 µg/m³)
Conclusion
This study identified a relationship between environmental factors, such as air pollution and housing type,
and the prevalence of hypertension. The indoor PM2.5 concentration in gers and stove-heated houses was above the standard limit, indicating a negative impact on the health of those residents. Furthermore, the high prevalence of hypertension
among participants over the age of 40 and those who are overweight suggests a possible link to lifestyle and environmental conditions.
8.Comparative Analysis of Outdoor Particulate Matter Concentrations in Ulaanbaatar Using Direct Measurements and Fixed Monitoring Station Data
Maralmaa E ; ; Yerkyebulan M ; Ser-Od Kh ; Shatar Sh ; Gantuya D ; Munkh-Erdene L ; Enkhjargal G ; Myagmarchuluun S ; Gregory Gray ; Junfeng Zhang ; Ulziimaa D ; Damdindorj B ; Davaalkham D ; ; Darambazar G
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;89(5):105-111
Background:
Particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller (PM2.5) penetrates
deep into the alveoli through the respiratory tract and is characterized by its ability to induce oxidative stress, systemic
inflammation, and vascular inflammation. Mongolia ranks among the countries with the highest levels of air pollution. In
Ulaanbaatar, where more than half of the country’s population resides, wintertime PM2.5 concentrations often exceed 200
μg/m³, which is about eight times higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline value. A study involving
1,200 adults in Ulaanbaatar showed that quality of life deteriorated sharply during periods of high air pollution, with
effects more pronounced among individuals who already had impaired respiratory function.
Aim:
To examine the relationship between indoor household PM2.5 concentrations and lung function indicators among
adults in Ulaanbaatar and Darkhan.
Materials and Methods:
This analytical cross-sectional study recruited adult participants from Ulaanbaatar and Darkhan
through targeted sampling. Household air quality was measured using PurpleAir sensors, which were installed in
participants’ homes for one month. After exposure measurement, lung function was assessed via spirometry. Statistical
analyses were conducted using SPSS version 25.0.
Results:
A total of 236 participants were included: 114 (48.3%) from Ulaanbaatar and 122 (51.7%) from Darkhan. The
sample consisted of 111 men (47.0%) and 125 women (53.0%). The mean indoor PM2.5 concentration was 66.24 μg/m³
(SD 44.87 μg/m³), ranging from a minimum of 7.79 μg/m³ to a maximum of 264.55 μg/m³. Stratification by housing type
showed the highest PM2.5 levels in gers (82.34 μg/m³), followed by detached houses (67.34 μg/m³), while apartments
had the lowest concentrations (32.24 μg/m³). Correlation analysis revealed statistically significant negative associations
between PM2.5 levels and measures of expiratory function, including the FEV1/FVC ratio, peak expiratory flow (PEF),
and mid-expiratory flow (FEF25–75). Reduced forced vital capacity (FVC) was observed in 9.4% of participants, reduced
forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) in 15.3%, and a decreased FEV1/FVC ratio in 3.8%.
Conclusion
Indoor household PM2.5 concentrations were highest in gers, and expiratory flow-related lung function
parameters showed significant negative associations with particulate exposure. This suggests that indoor PM2.5 primarily
affects airflow limitation rather than overall lung volumes in this population.
9.Interactions between herbs and conventional drugs
Narantungalag D ; Maralmaa T ; Oigonchimeg B ; Ser-Od B ; Tsetsegsuren E ; Gerelmaa B ; Sarnai S
Diagnosis 2024;110(3):5-13
This article provides an overview of the clinical evidence of interactions between herbal and conventional medicines. Herbs involved in drug interactions – or that have been evaluated in pharmacokinetic trials – are discussed in this review. While many of the interactions reported are of limited clinical significance and many herbal products (echinacea, valerian) seem to expose patients to minor risk
under conventional pharmacotherapy, a few herbs, notably St. John’s wort, may provoke adverse events sufficiently serious about endangering the patient’s health.
Healthcare professionals should remain vigilant for potential interactions between herbal medicines and prescribed drugs, especially when drugs with a narrow therapeutic index are used. Hypericum perforatum L. (St. John’s wort) extracts are widely used as a safe alternative to conventional antidepressant drugs for mild to moderate forms of depressive disorders.
St. John’s wort represents the herbal product that is most involved in herb-to drug interactions.
The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the clinical data regarding the E2 interactions between herbal remedies and prescribed drugs.
For patients on prescription medications, the concomitant use of herbal medications can cause serious and adverse effects. It is the responsibility of health professionals to be well informed about the clinical evidence of herb-drug interactions.
10.Comparison of umbilical cord blood gas parameters of newborns with the use of some labory induction drugs
Oigonchimeg B ; Sarnai S ; Maralmaa T ; Ser-Od B ; Tsetsegsuren E ; Gerelmaa B ; Narantungalag D
Diagnosis 2024;110(3):40-46
Background:
Induction of labor is a procedure performed to prevent maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The effects of birth control pills on babies are still controversial. Therefore, we conducted this study to compare the effects of oxytocin and misoprostol on fetal blood gas parameters.
Aim:
To compare the effects of misoprostol and oxytocin used in labor induction on umbilical cord blood parameters
Materials and methods:
We conducted this study among mothers who gave birth in the NICU, according to the inclusion criteria, a control group (n=30), misoprostol alone vaginally (n=30) and oxytocin drip alone (n= 30) and oxytocin with misoprostol group (n=30) 4 groups used 100 mothers were selected respectively. Umbilical artery blood was sampled and umbilical artery blood pH, pCO2, pO2, HCO3, and VE (blood base excess) parameters were measured in the laboratory. The umbilical cord blood acid-alkaline parameters and lactate levels were analyzed and evaluated using COBAS C311 and COBAS B221 instruments. It was compared and determined using SPSS26 and EXCEL programs.
Results:
The average age of all mothers included in the study was 27.87±6.12, the average gestation period was 39.6±0.7 weeks, and the average weight of the newborn was 3466±323 gr. The average umbilical cord blood pH value was 7.34±0.04 in the control group, 7.25±0.07 in the oxytocin group, 7.27±0.04 in the misoprostol group, and 7.24±0.04 in the oxytocin and misoprostol group. And lactate valie was 5.8 in the control group, 7.5 in the oxytocin group, 9.87 in the misoprostol group, 8.7 in the combined group.
Conclusions
Compared to the group that did not use labor-inducing drugs, the mean pH of umbilical cord blood and lactate level were higher or statistically significant in the 3 groups that used labor-inducing drugs, indicating that birth-inducing drugs affect the umbilical cord blood parameters.
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