Background: In atopic dermatitis, impairment of the skin barrier function leads to increased susceptibility to environ mental particles and pollutants, thereby contributing to disease pathogenesis and complications, as well as to an increased risk of fungal skin infections. In children with atopic dermatitis, infections caused by Candida species exacerbate the dis ease and reduce the effectiveness of treatment. Candida species are common opportunistic pathogens colonizing the skin and mucosal surfaces, and more than 200 species have been described. Among these, Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei are most frequently isolated from the skin, mucosa, and oral cavity. In Mongolia, studies culturing skin fungi and determining their metabolic activity and virulence factors are limited, which constituted the rationale for the present study. Aim: To determine virulence factors and selected biochemical activities of Candida species. Materials and Methods: In this study, Candida species strains cultured from clinical samples of children with atopic der matitis were used with research approval. The fungal strains preserved at –80°C were revived by culturing on Sabouraud Chloramphenicol Agar and evaluated microscopically after Gram staining. Biofilm-forming activity was determined us ing the microtiter plate method, in which cultures were grown in broth, optical density was measured using a microplate reader, and values were calculated using a standard formula. Phospholipase activity was assessed using egg yolk agar according to the method developed by Price et al. Results: Of the total cultured isolates, 54.1% (n=33) demonstrated weak biofilm-forming activity (≤ODc / ODc < ~ ≤2×ODc), while 32.79% (n=20) showed moderate biofilm-forming activity (2×ODc < ~ ≤4×ODc). Isolates exhibiting strong biofilm-forming activity (>4×ODc) accounted for 13.1% (n =8) Regarding phospholipase activity, 50% of the isolates showed strong activity, 30% showed moderate activity, 10% showed low activity, and 10% exhibited very weak activity. Conclusions 1. Virulent fungal strains capable of attaching to host cells are involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. 2. Atopic dermatitis is shown to contain fungal strains that damage host cells and are involved in the process of inva sion.

Background: Recent international studies have demonstrated that vaginal microbiota dysbiosis is associated with persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, cervical precancerous lesions, and cervical cancer. In healthy women, Lactobacillus spp. dominate the vaginal microbiota and produce lactic acid and other bioactive compounds, thereby maintaining an acidic vaginal pH and protecting against colonization by pathogenic microorganisms. A reduction in Lactobacillus spp. and overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria, resulting in dysbiosis, has been associated with HPV persistence as well as the progression and recurrence of cervical precancerous lesions. However, no study has compared the prevalence of Lactobacillus spp. and aerobic bacteria, or their associations, among Mongolian women diagnosed with cervical precancerous lesions or cervical cancer. Therefore, this study was conducted to address this gap. Aim: To compare and characterize the composition of selected vaginal microorganisms in women diagnosed with cervical precancerous lesions and cervical cancer. Materials and Methods: This hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from May to October 2026 at the Department of Gynecologic Oncology, National Cancer Center of Mongolia. A total of 275 women with histologically confirmed cervical precancerous lesions or cervical cancer were voluntarily enrolled after providing written informed consent. Prior to initiation, ethical approval was obtained from the Research Ethics Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences at its meeting held on April 22, 2026 (Minutes No. 2026/04-28). General information, medical history, and behavioral factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. Three vaginal swabs were collected from the posterior vaginal fornix. Vaginal discharge was examined, and Lactobacillus spp. and aerobic bacteria were cultured. The associations between these microbiological findings and diagnostic groups were compared across five diagnostic categories. Results: Of the 275 women enrolled, the diagnostic distribution was as follows: CIN I, 41 (14.9%); CIN II, 73 (26.5%); CIN III, 80 (29.1%); cervical carcinoma in situ (CIS), 45 (16.4%); and cervical cancer (CC), 36 (13.1%). Vaginal pH was significantly and positively correlated with the cocci count (ρ=0.346, p < 0.001), white blood cell count (ρ=0.283, p < 0.001), and AV score (ρ=0.277, p < 0.001). In contrast, the Lactobacillus count was significantly and negatively correlated with vaginal pH (ρ=−0.238, p < 0.001). When the AV score was compared across diagnostic groups, it was 2.8±1.3 in stage IIB cervical cancer and 3.67±2.3 in stage III cervical cancer (p=0.008). Lactobacillus spp. were isolated from 119 participants (43.3%), while aerobic bacteria were isolated from 103 participants (37.5%). The most frequently identified aerobic bacteria were Escherichia coli (32; 11.6%), Enterococcus faecalis (17; 6.2%), Streptococcus agalactiae (11; 4.0%), and viridans group streptococci (9; 3.3%). However, the detection rates of Lactobacillus spp. and aerobic bacteria did not differ significantly across diagnostic groups (p=0.634 and p=0.221, respectively). Conclusions Among women with cervical precancerous lesions and cervical cancer, an increase in vaginal pH was significantly positively associated with cocci count, white blood cell count, and AV score. The higher AV scores observed in the cervical cancer group suggest that aerobic vaginitis may be associated with the progression of cervical precancerous lesions. Although the prevalence of Lactobacillus spp. and aerobic microorganisms did not differ significantly across diagnostic groups, the CC group showed a trend toward increased prevalence of aerobic microorganisms and decreased prevalence of Lactobacillus spp.

Background: Saliva as a non-invasive biological sample can be a game-changer in early disease detection and health risk assessment. Objective: To examine the association between participants' dietary patterns and the activity of salivary amylase, along with serum amylase levels in humans. Materials and methods: This study was conducted at the research laboratory of the Department of Biochemistry, School of Biomedicine, MNUMS. A total of 30 students aged 19–22 years participated in the study. Saliva samples were collected three times at one-week intervals, and one blood sample was collected from each participant, alongside a dietary questionnaire. The activity of the amylase enzyme in both saliva and serum samples was determined using the iodine-starch method. Results: When evaluating the amylase enzyme activity based on participants' carbohydrate intake, the result was p > 0.05, indicating no statistically significant difference. Similarly, statistical analysis of the use of mouthwash and vitamin supplements also showed p > 0.05, which means these variables had no statistically significant effect on amylase activity. The correlation between salivary and serum amylase activity was found to be r = 0.365, indicating a weak positive correlation, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion The intake of carbohydrates, vitamins, and mouthwash does not significantly affect the activity level of the salivary amylase enzyme, according to research findings. However, external factors such as stress and air pollution have been shown to exert a measurable influence on its activity. A comparative analysis of enzyme levels in saliva and blood using amylase as a representative marker revealed similar activity levels in both fluids. This suggests that saliva may serve as a viable non invasive sample for detecting various biomarkers and diagnosing diseases. The results underscore the potential of salivary components, particularly amylase, as valuable indicators in diagnostic applications.

Background: The synthesis of multifunctional nanoparticles by integrating the bioactive properties of the ethanol extract of Urtica dioica L. a medicinal plant widely distributed in Mongolia, with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NP) serves as the foundation of the present study. The aim is to produce nanoparticles with synergistic antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anticancer activities. Objective: To synthesise dual-action nanoparticles (NPs) by integrating ZnO with the extract of Urtica dioica L. and to characterise their properties. Materials and Methods: The Control group, as ZnO-NPs, and the study group, as medicinal plant ethanol extraction loaded nanoparticles (UD-ZnO-NPs), were synthesised using green synthesis techniques. The morphology and particle size were characterised by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), chemical bonding was analysed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and crystalline structure was examined by X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Hemolytic activity assays were conducted to assess cytotoxicity. Results: The Control and study group’s morphology and size distribution were uniform and spherical. The average particle size of the study group (UD-ZnO NPs) was 63 nm, while the control group (ZnO-NPs) was 77 nm. FTIR analysis showed that the basic chemical bonds in both types of nanoparticles were similar; however, additional peaks corresponding to the bioactive compounds from the Urtica dioica extract were detected in the UD ZnO-NPs. XRD analysis revealed that both types of ZnO-NPs investigated the same crystalline structure, consistent with the standard reference data (JCPDS No. 36 1451). Hemolysis assays showed that at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 mg/ mL, the hemolytic activity was below 5%, indicating low cytotoxicity. Conclusion ZnO-NPs with and without Urtica dioica extract were successfully synthesized via a green method, yielding spherical, uniformly dispersed particles ranging from 63 to 77 nm in size. While the structural and crystalline characteristics of the NPs remained consistent, the presence of bioactive compounds was confirmed in the UD-ZnO-NPs. Hemolytic assays indicated dose-dependent cytotoxicity, highlighting the importance of concentration in biomedical applications.

Background: Identifying reliable biomarkers for early detection, risk stratification, and prognosis of CVD in the context of CKD is, therefore, of critical importance. Cystatin C has emerged as a potential biomarker capable of reflecting both cardiac injury and renal impairment, particularly in patients with arterial hypertension. This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum cystatin C levels, left ventricular hypertrophy, and chronic kidney disease in individuals with hypertension. Objective: To assess serum cystatin C concentrations in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease secondary to arterial hypertension. Materials and Methods: A case-control analytical study was conducted, enrolling 44 patients aged 45 years or older with both left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease due to arterial hypertension alongside a control group of apparently healthy individuals. Serum cystatin C levels were measured using immunoturbidimetric assay. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Group comparisons were made using independent-sample t-tests, while multivariate regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were employed to explore associations and the predictive value of cystatin C. Results: The mean serum cystatin C concentration in the case group was 1.6±0.1 mg/L, significantly higher than in the control group (0.88±0.03 mg/L, p<0.05). Similarly, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was markedly reduced in the case group (44.88±6.8 mL/min/1.73 m²) compared to the controls (92.88±3.4 mL/ min/1.73 m², p<0.05). In the case group, a statistically significant inverse correlation was observed between serum cystatin C levels and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), with a regression coefficient of β=−0.028 (p<0.006). Conclusion The elevated serum cystatin C levels (1.6±0.1 mg/L) and decreased eGFR (38.99±12.7 mL/min/1.73 m²) observed in the case group suggest that cystatin C may serve as a potential biomarker for the early diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy due to arterial hypertension and chronic kidney disease, as well as for predicting related complications.

Background: Regularly participate international High-level in sports athletes national and competitions and engage in intense training, developing endurance and resilience. Measuring blood lactate levels is crucial for improving an athlete’s performance, assessing sports performance, and enhancing the effectiveness of future training. Aim: To study the relationship between lactate levels in the blood plasma and lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity in Mongolian National Team athletes. Materials and Methods: The study involved 51 athletes from the Mongolian National Team. Anaerobic capacity was assessed using a Monark 894E Ergomedic Peak Bike, designed to apply exercise load. Blood serum lactate level and lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity were determined using a Biobase BK-280 fully automated biochemical analyzer. Heart rate, peripheral blood oxygen levels, and oxygen saturation were measured using a pulse oximeter. Results: The average age of the participants was 24.04 ± 4.15 years, with an average height of 168 ± 8.78 cm and an average weight of 71.01 ± 7.69 kg. The average BMI was 24.82 ± 4.12 kg/m². Pre exercise lactate levels averaged 3.84 ± 0.75 mmol/L, while post-exercise lactate levels averaged 9.67±3.52 mmol/L. The average heart rate before exercise was 66.04±8.9 bpm, while post-exercise heart rate was 123.6±16.06 bpm. The average VO₂ max was 95.18±2.48. Conclusion The lactate levels before and after exercise among the athletes participating in the study showed significant differences in the age groups 20-29 (p<0.0001). When comparing lactate levels before and after exercise by sport, statistically significant increases were observed in freestyle wrestling and judo athletes (p<0.0001)

Background: The intestinal microbiota of Mongolians and its composition is of great interest of researchers, a few studies have did in this fields. Maybe Mongolian encompass a uniquely wide range of environmental conditions, ethno geographical cohorts and traditional nomadic lifestyles. Goal: We aimed to determine the amount of gut microbiota, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in the fecal samples of relative healthy Mongolian adults residing in various regions of Mongolia by conventional culture method and PCR. Material and Methods: The study was performed population based cross sectional study in healthy volunteers. In this study, 256 relative healthy Mongolian adults with no history of gastrointestinal associated diseases were enrolled between July 2018 and April 2019. Each participants was asked to complete a questionnaire containing 164 questions about demographics, physical activity, dietary habits. Fecal samples were collected for Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium analysis using culture method and determination of genus of Bifidobacterium sрp and Lactobacillus spp by PCR. ResultsParticipants had a mean age of 38.9±12.8 years. The mean values of Lactobacillus by culture method were 5.9±1.28 and 6.24±0.94 log10 CFU/ml (4.67х106 , 4.66х106 CFU/ml), respectively. The abundance of Lactobacillus had a positive correlation with grams for fiber and amount of bifidobacterium ((r= 0.495, р<0.001, r=0.288, p<0.05), respectively). Significant difference were observed between groups of milk frequency per day for amounts of lactobacillus. In adult intestinal tracts, B.Bifidum was the most common taxon 31 (29%) followed by B. angulatum 14 (13.1%), B. adolescentis 10 (9.3%), B. catenulatum group 10 (9.3%), B. longum 9 (8.4%). B. lactis, B. breve, B. dentium and B. gallicum were subdominant species. Conclusion: The mean amount of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus of all participants were 6.24±0.94 and 5.9±1.28 log10 CFU/ml (4.66*106 , 4.67*106 CFU/ml) respectively. The Lactobacillus abundance of healthy adults was higher in region of Khangai, East and West of Mongolian than other regions. The composition of lactobacillus altered with ageing. Significant correlations were found between fiber, fats, potato and amount of Lactobacillus. Keywords: Bifidobacterium, Colony forming unit, Gut microbiota, Lactobacillus

Introduction: In Mongolia, diagnostic tests for the detection of the sexually transmitted congenital virus and human papilloma virus are currently not routinely used in clinical settings and the frequency of these STIs is enigmatic. Goal: The prevalence of this virus were prospectively evaluated among 200 Mongolian pregnant women and their newborns and correlated with pregnancy outcome. Materials and Methods: Taq Man PCRs were used to detect some virus in pre-birth vaginal swabs of the pregnant women and in oral swabs of their newborns. A standardized questionnaire concerning former and present pregnancies was developed and regression analysis was used to correlate virus detection with pregnancy outcome. Result: Cytomegalovirus was the most prevalent of the tested pathogens (46.5% positive women and 10.5% newborns), human papilloma virus (31.5% and 4.5%) and herpes simplex virus-2 (1% and 0%). Statistical analysis: The statistical analysis was conducted using the software program RStudio, version 0.99.896. Multiple regression analysis was used to assess the association between pathogen loads of mothers or newborns and the outcome variables (gestational age, neonatal length, weight, head circumferences and bacterial vaginosis). Conclusions Multiple regression analyses indicate that colonization of the mothers with cytomegalovirus is associated with transmission to newborns and that transmission is associated with reduced neonatal length and gestational age. Thus, diagnostic tests for their detection should be implemented in the clinical settings in Mongolia.

Selenium was discovered by the Swedish chemist Jo¨ns Jacob Berzelius in 1817 and has been recognized as an essential trace element for many life forms including man since 1957. As an essential trace element, the importance of selenium (Se) in humans is well established, and its deficiency has caused serious health effects in humans, such as Keshan disease. Foods are major natural source of Se, and its levels generally depend on soil Se levels. Since its discovery as an important component of antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx), thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) and iodothyronine deiodinases (IDD), there has been an increased interest in the study of other Se-containing proteins (selenoproteins) or enzymes (selenoenzymes)].Selenocysteine is recognised as the 21st amino acid, and it forms a predominant residue of selenoproteins and selenoenzymes in biological tissues. The molecular structure of selenocystiene is an analogue of cysteine where a sulphur atom is replaced by Se. Selenium can be measured in whole blood, blood fractions (plasma, serum, red blood cells), hair, nails, and urine. Plasma selenium levels below 0.6mM (40–50 ng/ml) are considered deficient, and risk of toxicity occurs at levels higher than 2mM (160 ng/ml), with reports of toxic effects at concentrations higher than 3mM (250 ng/ml)The increased production of ROS (reactive oxygen species) can exert oxidative stress in the physiological system, and if excess ROS are not properly regulated they can cause damage to cellular lipids, proteins and DNA. The damage caused by ROS has been linked to various human diseases, including heart diseases. The presence of ROS can also cause the oxidation of lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL),and it has been reported to be associated with initiation of atherogenesis in heart diseases. One hypothesis is that the presence of high Se as antioxidant selenoenzymes and selenoproteins may help to reduce the production of oxidised LDL and, therefore, would reduce the incidence of heart diseases.Thioredoxin reductase plays a significant role in preventing the development of atherosclerosis by reducing oxidative stress and increasing NO bioavailability