1.Determination of serum IL-4 and IFN-γ levels in allergic model-induced C57BL/6 mice using in-house ELISA
Dulguunuu M ; Nyam-Ochir G ; Oyun-Erdene Ch ; Ariunzaya B ; Tsogtsaikhan S ; Enkhtushig G ; Khuselt-Od T ; Enkhtuya S ; Sarantuya L ; Suvd O ; Nyamdorj D ; Batbaatar G ; Gansukh Ch ; Enkhsaikhan L ; Enkh-Amar B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;92(2):134-138
Background:
Type I hypersensitivity, commonly known as an allergic reaction, is characterised by an IgE-mediated immune response triggered when foreign proteins enter the body. During allergic reactions, cytokines such as IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, and IL-13, secreted by T-helper 2 (Th2) cells, play a crucial role in activating immune effector cells like eosinophils and mast cells, which contribute significantly to airway inflammation and obstruction. Conversely, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), produced by Th1 cells, suppresses Th2-mediated responses and plays an essential role in regulating allergic inflammation. Therefore, determining the balance of cytokines produced by Th1 and Th2 cells is crucial for understanding the mechanisms underlying allergic responses.
Aim:
We aimed to induce an allergic response in experimental animals using ovalbumin and to determine the levels of IL-4 and IFN-γ cytokines using an in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Materials and Methods:
A total of 20 female C57BL/6 mice aged 6–8 weeks were selected for the experiment and randomly divided into two groups: control and experimental groups. The concentrations of IL-4 and IFN-γ cytokines in mouse serum were determined using an in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Result:
Compared to the control group, the levels of IL-4 and IFN-γ cytokines in the serum of allergic model-induced C57BL/6 mice were determined to be 513.7 pg/mL and 193.2 pg/mL, respectively. A statistically significant difference was observed in IL-4 cytokine levels between the two groups (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
In the allergic model group, serum levels of IL-4 cytokine were elevated, while IFN-γ cytokine levels were decreased, suggesting a predominant Th2-type immune response.
2.Sex-specific differences in serum neurotrophic and neuromuscular biomarkers in older adults with Sarcopenia
Odgerel Ch ; Erdenesuvd B ; Altankhishig B ; Nomin-Erdene E ; Enguun E ; Saranzayaa S ; Bat-Erdene D ; Tulgaa S ; Munkh-Erdene U ; Nandin-Erdene M ; Oyun-Erdene R ; Tserenvandan Kh ; Ganbaatar B ; Munkhtsetseg J ; Buyankhuu T
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):12-17
Background:
Sarcopenia is a multifactorial geriatric syndrome characterized by age-related loss of muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance. In recent years, neurotrophic and neuromuscular biomarkers have been investigated as potential diagnostic indicators of sarcopenia; however, evidence regarding their sex-specific differences remains limited.
Aim:
To evaluate the sex-specific associations of serum BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 levels with sarcopenia and muscle-related parameters among older adults.
Materials and Methods:
This analytical cross-sectional study included adults aged 60 years and older. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS 2019) criteria. Serum BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 levels were measured using ELISA. Group differences were analyzed using independent t-tests, correlations were assessed using Pearson correlation analysis, and diagnostic performance for sarcopenia was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was also performed.
Results:
No statistically significant differences were observed in serum BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 levels between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic participants in either the male or female groups (all p>0.05). ROC analysis demonstrated AUC values ranging from 0.540 to 0.542 in males and from 0.508 to 0.530 in females for BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that age (OR=1.12, 95% CI: 1.04–1.21, p=0.003) and lower fat-free mass index (OR=0.78, 95% CI: 0.66–0.91, p=0.001) were significantly associated with sarcopenia, whereas BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 showed no independent association with sarcopenia.
Conclusions
1. No statistically significant sex-specific differences were observed in serum BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 levels between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic older adults (all p>0.05). 2. CAF22 levels were weakly negatively correlated with muscle mass and fat-free mass index in males (p<0.05), whereas BDNF levels showed weak positive correlations with handgrip strength and fat-free mass index in females (p<0.05). CAF22 levels also demonstrated a weak positive correlation with age (p<0.05). 3. ROC and multivariable logistic regression analyses indicated limited diagnostic utility of BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 for sarcopenia (AUC=0.508–0.542), and none of these biomarkers showed an independent association with sarcopenia (all p>0.05). In contrast, older age (OR=1.12, p=0.003) and lower fat-free mass index (OR=0.78, p=0.001) were significantly associated with sarcopenia.
3.Results of the study on access to client-centered health services for people living with HIV
Khulan D ; Khishigdelger G ; Uugan-Oyun Ch ; Indra A ; Egshiglen S ; Davaajav Kh ; Oyunbeleg B ; Gantuya G ; Nyamtsengel V
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;94(4):87-91
Background:
Transitioning HIV care toward a client-centered model is a key strategy for improving treatment outcomes and controlling the spread of HIV infection. Evaluating service accessibility, quality, and client satisfaction is essential for improving strategic planning and strengthening health service delivery.
Aim:
To assess the accessibility and quality of client-centered health services among people living with HIV.
Materials and methods:
A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Data were collected using structured questionnaires from 50 clients and 30 health managers who participated voluntarily. The reliability of the questionnaire, measured using Cronbach’s alpha, ranged from 0.673 to 0.783. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 with both descriptive and analytical statistical methods. Quantitative variables were summarized using means and standard deviations, and statistical significance was determined at p < 0.05.
Results:
HIV-related services were found to be highly centralized at the NCCD, particularly for blood testing (96.8%) and inpatient care (71.4%). Overall, 84% of clients reported the need to access services outside NCCD, with the highest demand for internal medicine (32%), dental services (14%), and surgical services (14%). Among the barriers to accessing care, 75% were related to stigma and discrimination associated with HIV status, while 18% were linked to healthcare workers’ attitudes. In addition, 56.7% of healthcare facilities had not conducted HIV-related training, and only 40% had dedicated rooms ensuring confidentiality. Client satisfaction was strongly correlated with healthcare providers’ attitudes and communication (R = 0.614) and confidentiality (R = 0.578), both showing significant associations (p = 0.000).
Conclusion
HIV services remain highly centralized at NCCD, while the readiness of primary and referral healthcare facilities remains insufficient. Strengthening a client-centered care approach requires improving healthcare workers’ attitudes and communication, ensuring confidentiality, and implementing continuous HIV-related training for healthcare providers.
4.Kaposi’s Sarcoma in a patient living with HIV: A case report
Unenchimeg P ; ; Uugan-Oyun Ch ; Narantuya P ; Oyunjargal M ; Indra A ; Narmandakh O
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;94(4):154-156
Background:
People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are at increased risk of developing opportunistic infections and malignancies due to immunosuppression. Among these, Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) and lymphoma are malignant conditions affecting mucocutaneous tissues and are considered multifocal angioproliferative disorders, as originally described by Moritz Kaposi. These conditions are more likely to occur in individuals with uncontrolled viral replication and low CD4 cell counts. In Mongolia, although the overall prevalence of HIV infection remains low and early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has reduced the incidence of opportunistic infections, cases of AIDS-related malignancies continue to be reported. Therefore, evaluating the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes of malignancies in HIV-infected patients is of significant importance.
Aim:
To present a case of Kaposi’s sarcoma in a patient living with HIV in Mongolia, and to describe the clinical course, diagnostic findings, treatment outcomes, and the impact of antiretroviral therapy (ART).
Materials and Methods:
This case report is based on a descriptive analysis of a single patient. Clinical data, including medical history, physical examination findings, laboratory parameters (CD4 cell count and viral load), imaging studies, histopathological results, treatment course, and outcomes were collected from the medical records of the National Center for Communicable Diseases and analyzed qualitatively.
Case Presentation:
A 35-year-old male patient presented with oral lesions that first appeared in June 2010 and progressively increased in number and size. In July 2010, he underwent computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and histopathological examination in the Republic of Korea, which confirmed the diagnosis of Kaposi’s sarcoma and lymphosarcoma. The patient was enrolled in care at the National Center for Communicable Diseases on September 2, 2010. According to his history, he had lived in Taiwan for the past 10 years and reported having sex with men. On October 22, 2010, his CD4 cell count was 282 cells/ml and viral load was 210,000 copies/ml. Antiretroviral therapy (tenofovir/lamivudine/efavirenz) was initiated. Between 2010 and 2011, he received six cycles of chemotherapy (DOX, CTX, VCR), and surgical excision of skin lesions was performed. Following treatment, the Kaposi’s sarcoma and lymphosarcoma lesions regressed significantly. By August 31, 2012, his CD4 cell count had increased to 535 cells/µL.
Conclusion
This case demonstrates that HIV-infected patients are at high risk of developing AIDS-defining malignancies due to immunosuppression. Early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) played a crucial role in immune restoration, as evidenced by the increase in CD4 cell count. In addition, combined treatment with chemotherapy contributed to tumor regression and clinical improvement.
5.Preliminary findings on the level of noise pollution along Ulaanbaatar roads
Myagmarjargal N ; Unurzaya E ; Myagmagdorj Ch ; Altangerel B ; Oyun-Erdene O ; Suvd B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2026;217(3):43-51
Introduction:
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that noise pollution leads to a variety of
short-term and long-term health issues, including sleep disorders, cardiovascular diseases,
impaired concentration, decreased performance at work and school, and hearing difficulties.
It has been established that for every 10 dB increase in environmental noise, the incidence
of heart attacks among individuals aged 65 and older increases by 3.9% compared to those
living in quieter environments (Seidler, et al., 2016). Furthermore, it has been found that
noise pollution exceeding 65 dB is directly related to hypertension among residents living
along high-traffic roads.
Objective:
To assessing traffic load and noise pollution on the roads of Ulaanbaatar
Materials and Methods:
The study was a cross-sectional survey conducted to determine noise pollution at 15
locations along roads such as Sun Road, Peace Avenue, Ard-Ayush Street, and Ikh Toiruu.
Measurements were taken during morning (7-9 AM), afternoon (12-2 PM), evening (5-7 PM),
and night (11 PM-1 AM) using a Noise Meter, Sound Level Meter, and portable equipment.
Measurements were conducted at one point 100-200 meters from the main road, with three
repetitions to assess hearing levels. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-24
software, and the results were compared to the Air Quality Technical General Requirements
MNS 4585:2016 standard (During the day (07:00-22:00), 60 dB(A), and at night (22:00
07:00), 45 dB(A)).
Results:
The measurement results revealed that the maximum noise value in the morning (7-9 AM)
was 83 dB(A), the minimum noise value was 51 dB(A), and the average of the maximum
noise values was 74.1±4.7 dB(A). The maximum noise value during the day was 97 dB(A),
the minimum noise value was 47 dB(A), and the average of the maximum noise value was
74.4±6.9 dB(A). In the evening, the maximum noise value was 88 dB(A), the minimum noise
value was 47 dB(A), and the average of the maximum noise value was 74.4±6.6 dB(A). For
the night measurements, the maximum noise value was 86 dB(A), the minimum noise value
was 49 dB(A), and the average of the maximum noise value was 69.4±7.7 dB(A).
When calculating the average noise pollution on weekdays and weekends, the average of
the max and min values during the morning, evening, and night on weekdays was 0.59-4.33
dB(A) higher than that of the weekend. The average maximum value during the day on
weekends was 2.79 dB(A) higher than that of weekdays. The number of vehicles participating
in road traffic showed a strong positive correlation with environmental noise (Rxy=0.660,
p=0.0001), and the number of times the horn was sounded also revealed strong positive
correlation with environmental noise (Rxy=0.674, p=0.029).
Conclusion
The noise level along the main roads exceeds the permissible limits set by the
"Air Quality. Technical General Requirements MNS 4585:2016" standard by 37 dB(A) during
the day and by 41 dB(A) at night. The average maximum value during the day exceeds the
standard by 14.6 dB(A). This indicates that Ulaanbaatar is experiencing noise pollution at
levels that negatively affect the health of the urban population.
6.Results of the Indoor Air Quality Assessment in Selected Secondary Schools
Myagmardorj Ch ; Enkhjargal A ; Enkhmunkh E ; Altangerel B ; Urantsetseg Ts ; Battur L ; Suvd B ; Oyun-Erdene O
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2026;217(3):52-58
Background:
Indoor air quality in schools is an important environmental health concern because children
spend a substantial proportion of their time in classrooms and are particularly vulnerable to
air pollutants.
Objective:
To assess common chemical, and biological pollutants in the indoor air of general education
schools in Ulaanbaatar.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 10, 2025, to March 1, 2026, in 16
purposively selected schools and 32 classrooms across six districts of Ulaanbaatar.
PM2.5, PM10, CO₂, and microclimatic parameters were monitored continuously for seven
days. Volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, BTEX compounds, and radon were also
measured. Airborne microorganisms were assessed using 160 air samples, and 160 surface
swabs were collected. Results were compared with MNS 7106:2026, MNS 5484:2005, and
MNS 6410:2018 standards.
Results:
The mean 24-hour concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were 25.2 and 36.1 µg/m³, respectively.
PM2.5 exceeded the permissible level during winter and in schools located in apartment
areas, whereas the mean PM10 concentration met the acceptable level. Total bacteria were
detected in all air samples, with a mean concentration of 1,733.25 CFU/m³. Mould and fungi
were detected in 56.3% of classrooms, and enteric bacteria were detected in 4.3% of surface
swabs. Radon levels remained below the permissible limit, and pathogenic bacteria were
not detected. Formaldehyde was detected in all samples, while total VOCs and toluene were
detected in 81.3%; their mean concentrations remained within acceptable levels. In one
classroom, the concentration of benzene was detected approximately 30 times higher the
permissible level.
Conclusion
Although some indoor air-quality indicators met the relevant standards, PM2.5,
total bacteria, mould and fungi, surface enteric bacteria, and benzene contamination require
improvement and may pose health risks to children. Regular ventilation, improved cleaning
and hygiene, proper maintenance of HEPA devices, and routine monitoring of particulate
matter, mould, and VOCs are needed.
7.Assessment result of maintain a proper hand hygiene conditions in healthcare facilities of Mongolia
Bolor B ; Batdulam D ; Nasantogtokh S ; Myagmardorj Ch ; Myagmarjargal M ; Unurzaya E ; Oyun-Erdene O ; Enkhjargal A ; Tsegmed S
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2025;211(1):28-35
Introduction:
Safe and accessible WASH services in healthcare facilities are crucial for maintaining high
quality care, especially for maternal and newborn health. The WHO-UNICEF JMP on Water
Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene provides reports on progress in water supply, sanitation,
and hygiene services at global, regional, and national levels, covering populations, schools,
and healthcare facilities. This assessment was conducted to address the insufficient data on
the level of hand hygiene services in healthcare facilities, following the methodology of the
JMP.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted in 319 healthcare facilities. Availability of hand hygiene
services in the study healthcare facilities was assessed using questionnaire of methodology
of the JMP. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 software. Relevant parametric and non
parametric statistical analysis were conducted.
Results:
Overall, 72% and 28% of healthcare facilities had basic and limited hand hygiene service
respectively. About 18% of private healthcare facilities had limited hand hygiene service
compared to 34% of state healthcare facilities. While 20% of urban healthcare facilities had
limited hand hygiene service, 56% of rural healthcare facilities do. When examining the
level of hand hygiene services by type of medical care, specialty hospitals have 100% basic
services. Among primary care facilities, 83% of family health centers provide basic services,
while 41% of soum and village health centers meet these standards.
Conclusion
The basic hand hygiene services in urban healthcare facilities and specialty hospitals were
generally sufficient. There need to enhance basic hand hygiene service at the soum and village level. Among the assessed facilities, 81.0% met four out of the five key hand hygiene
requirements outlined in the national standard. However, additional budget allocation for
maintenance and operational costs for keeping soap and sustaining water running remains
crucial to ensure sustained compliance and quality.
8.Some findings on health issues linked to noise pollution in Ulaanbaatar city
Unurzaya E ; Mygmarjargal N ; Altangerel B ; Mygmardorj Ch ; Enhjargal A ; Oyun-Erdene O ; Suvd B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2025;212(2):42-51
Introduction:
According to the WHO, being exposed to loud noise for a long time can be very harmful
to health. It can lead to heart and blood vessel problems, mental health issues, trouble
sleeping, and hearing loss. Noise pollution has a negative effect on the brain and nervous
system, and it can cause many problems. High-frequency noise, in particular, can disturb the
central nervous system. This can lead to problems like poor concentration, more anxiety, and
feeling mentally tired. Many studies around the world have shown that noise levels of ≥85 dB
at work increase the risk of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and tinnitus.In Ulaanbaatar,
environmental noise pollution continues to grow due to population growth, construction, and
urban planning. Therefore, it is important to find out whether environmental noise pollution is
linked to mental and behavioral disorders, insomnia, nervous fatigue, high blood pressure,
and hearing loss among the population.
Goal:
The aim of this study is to examine the prevalence of primary hypertension (I10), nervous
fatigue (F48.0), sleep disorders (F51.0), and tinnitus (H83.3) caused by environmental noise
among the population of Ulaanbaatar.
Materials and Methods:
A descriptive research design was applied to examine statistical data from the Center for
Health Development regarding diseases related to noise pollution. Based on the 10th revision
of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10), the study focused on conditions such
as neurasthenia (F48.0), non-organic sleep disorders (F51), primary hypertension (I10), and
hearing disorders (H83.3). The analysis included data recorded between 2014 and 2023
among the population of Ulaanbaatar city. Epidemiological analysis was performed using
SPSS-24 software, and the results were calculated per 10,000 population.
Ethical Considerations:
This study did not receive any external funding or financial support from public or private
organizations. It utilizes secondary data from the Health Development Center, which does
not contain any personal information.
Results:
In 2014, the average age of individuals diagnosed with neurasthenia (F48.0) was 40.1±12.6
years; for non-organic sleep disorders (F51.0), it was 48.1±14.5 years; for noise-induced
hearing disorders (H83.3), 47.2±12.7 years; and for primary hypertension (I10), the average
age was 59.0±11.4 years. By 2023, the average age for primary hypertension had slightly
decreased to 58.0±12.9 years. Since 2014, the number of cases of nervous fatigue, non
organic sleep disorders, and hearing problems caused by noise has risen in Ulaanbaatar.
In 2023, the average age of people with primary hypertension (I10) dropped to 58.0±12.9
years. Noise-related illnesses are common among people aged 40 to 60 in Ulaanbaatar, and
this is lowering their quality of life.
Conclusion
Noise-related illnesses are being recorded among the 40–60 age group in Ulaanbaatar,
which is negatively affecting their quality of life. It is urgently necessary to introduce
measures for adequate protection of the population from the negative health effects of
environmental noise.
9.Efficacy of probiotic mouthwash in treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis
Khongorzul S ; Namuundari G ; Narantuul Ch ; Saranchimeg A ; Bolor N ; Khulan G ; Angar S ; Buyanbileg S ; Nyamsuren E ; Oyun-Enkh P ; Oyunkhishig Kh ; Bayarchimeg B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):112-116
Background:
In the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis, in addition to mechanical plaque control, the use of chemical
plaque control such as mouth rinses for a certain period has shown a positive effect on treatment outcomes and prognosis.
Aim:
To evaluate the efficacy of a probiotic mouthwash in the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis.
Materials and Methods:
A randomized controlled clinical trial was designed for a period of 2 weeks on 45 systemically
healthy subjects between 20 and 25 years having plaque-induced gingivitis. The study population was divided into three
groups. Group 1-15 subjects were advised experimental (probiotic) mouthwash. Group 2-15 subjects were advised positive control (chlorhexidine) mouthwash and Group 3-15 subjects into a negative control group. Oral prophylaxis was
done for all groups at baseline. After the proper oral hygiene instructions, groups 1 and 2 were instructed to rinse their
mouth with 15 ml of their respective mouthwashes, for 1 min twice daily, 30 min after brushing. Clinical parameters such
as Full mouth plaque score (FMPS), Full mouth bleeding score (FMBS) were assessed at baseline, 2 weeks respectively.
Results:
At baseline, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of FMBS and FMPS
mean values (p=0.174, p=0.887). At day 14, the FMPS, FMBS mean values were significantly reduced by all treatment
modalities ranking probiotic and chlorhexidine is greater than negative control group (p<0.001, p<0.001).
Conclusion
The probiotic mouthwash was effectively used as an adjunct to mechanical plaque control in the treatment
of plaque-induced gingivitis.
10.Treatment of miniere’s disease (icd-10 h.81) using traditional medicine and therapeutic interventions: Case report
Undarmaa B ; Tserendulam G ; Oyun-Erdene U ; Oyunnyam Ch ; Nasankhishig D ; Khaliun E ; Tsegmed G ; Oyunbileg Yu ; Enkhtuya V
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;87(3):72-74
Background:
Meniere's disease is a condition caused by disturbances in the
auditory and vestibular systems. It is characterized by symptoms such as dizziness,
nausea, vomiting, and tinnitus. In the United States, the prevalence of
Meniere's disease has been found to be 84 cases per 100,000 women and
56 cases per 100,000 men. Regionally, it is more common in less populated
areas, and research has confirmed that the prevalence increases with higher
household income.
Aim:
To evaluate the effectiveness of traditional medicine treatments and therapies
for Meniere's disease.
Results:
The patient is a 43-year-old male, with symptoms of dizziness, vomiting,
and tinnitus. Since 2023, he has sought care at the Central Hospital of
Mongolian Medicine, where he received traditional medicine treatments including
herbal therapy and other traditional therapies on three occasions. As a
result, the frequency of dizziness has decreased and other clinical symptoms
have improved.
Conclusion
Traditional medicine treatments have been shown to be effective
in managing Meniere's disease by extending the interval between relapses,
improving quality of life, and significantly reducing clinical symptoms.
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