1.Foodborne illness from tuba-tuba seeds among school-aged children, Philippines: a call for community education
Darren H Venturina ; Apple Charm A Agulto ; Alireza S Faiyaz MF ; Ray Justin C Ventura ; Mariz Zheila C Blanco-Payuyo ; John Bobbie Roca
Western Pacific Surveillance and Response 2025;16(1):61-65
Objective: On 2 September 2023, the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of the Department of Health’s Center for Health Development in Calabarzon, Philippines, received a report of foodborne illness due to the ingestion of tuba-tuba (Jatropha curcas) seeds in Talao Talao Village, Lucena City. The objective of this study was to describe the public health event.
Methods: A descriptive study was conducted. Cases were defined as previously well individuals who developed at least one of the following symptoms after eating tuba-tuba seeds: vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, headache or dizziness. Health records were reviewed, and key informant interviews and environmental surveys were conducted.
Results: Ten cases were identified, ranging in age from 10 to 12 years. The onset of symptoms ranged from 1 to 4 hours after consumption. Six of the cases were taken to the hospital, although two went home before being admitted; all recovered after 3 days. The most common symptom was vomiting (100%); other symptoms included abdominal pain, diarrhoea, dizziness and headache.
Discussion: This investigation confirmed that tuba-tuba seeds were the cause of symptoms among school-aged children in Lucena City. To prevent similar events in the future, we recommend intensifying educational campaigns at both the community and school levels, as tuba-tuba is common in the area.
2.Detection and analysis of MSX1 gene mutations in two families with non-syndromic tooth agenesis
Journal of Prevention and Treatment for Stomatological Diseases 2025;33(5):359-367
Objective :
To screen and analyze mutations in two families with non-syndromic tooth agenesis, providing a theoretical basis for the diagnosis and treatment of tooth agenesis
Methods:
This study was reviewed and approved by the Medical Ethics Committee, and informed consent was obtained from patients. Information and blood samples from two core families with non-syndromic congenital tooth agenesis were collected, along with blood samples from 100 normal controls. Pathogenic gene mutations were explored through whole exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing. The pathogenicity of the identified mutations was analyzed using prediction software Polyphen-2, CADD, and FAMMTH. The impact of the mutations on protein stability was predicted using Mupro, DUET, and I-Mutant software. Conservation analysis and protein 2D/3D structure analysis were used to predict the impact of mutations on protein function. The impact of the mutant proteins on subcellular localization was predicted using DeepLoc 2.1 software.
Results:
We identified two novel mutations in the muscle segment homeobox 1 (MSX1) gene: c.547C>A (p.Gln183Lys) and c.854T>C(p.Val285Ala) in the two families. Polyphen-2, CADD, and FATHMM predicted these mutations to be pathogenic, and ACMG classified these mutations as likely pathogenic. Conservation analysis showed that the two mutation sites (Gln183 and Val285) are located in highly conserved regions during evolution. Protein stability predictions indicated that these mutations influence protein stability. Protein 2D structure analysis indicated that these two mutations affect the 2D structure of the protein. 3D structure analysis showed that these two mutations can cause changes in the 3D structure. Software predictions indicated that these mutations do not affect the subcellular localization of the protein.
Conclusion
This study is the first to report two novel mutations in the MSX1 gene (c.547C>A and c.854T>C) associated with tooth agenesis, providing a basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment of congenital tooth loss.
3.Research progress on low-intensity pulsed ultrasound in promoting osseointegration of dental implants
ZHANG Xinyu ; QU Fang ; XU Chun
Journal of Prevention and Treatment for Stomatological Diseases 2025;33(5):417-424
How to effectively promote osseointegration of dental implants remains a pressing clinical challenge. Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in accelerating the healing of various bodily tissues, including bone tissue. In recent years, there has been extensive research on its application in promoting osseointegration in the field of dental implantology. Animal studies have shown that LIPUS exhibits significant potential in facilitating osseointegration of dental implants. In vitro experiments have further revealed that LIPUS can enhance the expression of key osteogenic factors, extracellular matrix mineralization, and induce local neurons to secrete αCGRP. Through the regulation of signaling pathways such as bone morphogenetic protein/Smad (Bmp/Smad), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3k/Akt), LIPUS promotes the proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation of osteogenic-related cells, thereby enhancing osseointegration of dental implants. Additionally, clinical studies have shown that bone mass increases around the implants after LIPUS treatment, with more pronounced growth observed on the buccal bone plate than on the palatal side. Furthermore, there is a lack of research that systematically summarizes the clinical evidence, in vitro and in vivo studies, and mechanisms of action regarding the role of LIPUS in promoting osseointegration of implants. Therefore, the aim of this study is to discuss the mechanisms of effect of LIPUS on osseointegration of implants, with the goal of further enhancing the outcome of implant-supported prosthodontic treatment.
4.Asiaticoside inhibits the malignant biological behavior of hepatocellular carcinoma Huh7 cells via the cAMP/PKA/CREB signaling pathway
LIU Zhichao1 ; DANG Tongke1 ; MAN Gaoya1 ; CHEN Peng2
Chinese Journal of Cancer Biotherapy 2025;32(3):294-300
[摘 要] 目的:探讨积雪草苷(ASI)是否通过环磷酸腺苷/蛋白激酶A/环磷酸腺苷反应成分结合蛋白(cAMP/PKA/CREB)信号通路调节肝细胞癌Huh7细胞的恶性生物学行为。方法:MTT筛选合适的ASI及时间后,将Huh7细胞分为对照组、ASI低剂量组(ASI-L组,20 μmol/L ASI)、ASI中剂量组(ASI-M组,40 μmol/L ASI)、ASI高剂量组(ASI-H组,80 μmol/L ASI)及ASI-H+Forskolin组(80 μmol/L ASI+100 μmol/L cAMP激活剂-Forskolin),按照上述分组处理48 h后,MTT及细胞克隆实验检测Huh7细胞增殖;Transwell实验分析Huh7细胞迁移、侵袭变化;膜联蛋白V-FITC凋亡试剂盒检测细胞凋亡变化;ELISA实验、WB法检测Huh7细胞的cAMP分泌水平及p-PKA、p-CREB蛋白的表达水平;将Huh7细胞经皮下注射于裸鼠右腹部,建立肝癌异种移植模型,以5、15和45 mg/kg的ASI灌胃干预4周,分离肿瘤组织并称质量。结果:以接近IC50的40 μmol/L ASI处理48 h为合适的浓度和时间。ASI-L组、ASI-M组、ASI-H组Huh7细胞增殖及克隆数、迁移数、侵袭数、cAMP水平、p-PKA/PKA和p-CREB/CREB表达均显著低于对照组(均P < 0.05),而凋亡率均显著高于对照组(均P < 0.05);ASI-H+Forskolin组Huh7细胞增殖及克隆数、迁移数、侵袭数、cAMP水平、p-PKA/PKA、p-CREB/CREB表达均显著高于ASI-H组(均P < 0.05),而Huh7细胞凋亡率显著低于ASI-H组(P < 0.05);在裸鼠移植瘤实验中,5、15和45 mg/kg ASI处理组的移植瘤质量均显著低于对照组(均P < 0.05)。结论:ASI可通过下调cAMP/PKA/CREB信号通路蛋白表达抑制Huh7细胞的恶性生物学行为、促进其凋亡,以及抑制裸鼠移植瘤的生长。
5.A study on risk factors of renal cell carcinoma
Ganbayar B ; ; Munkhtuya T ; ; Myagmarsuren P ; ; Bayan-Ondor D ; ; Amarsaihan S ; ; Shiirevnyamba A
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):15-18
Background:
Studies from other countries have identified multiple contributing factors to renal cell carcinoma (RCC).
We conducted this study to investigate the relationship between RCC and certain risk factors among the Mongolian population.
Aim:
To identify the risk factors for renal cell carcinoma in Mongolian individuals.
Material and Methods:
This case-control study included 88 patients diagnosed with RCC (confirmed by pathological
examination) in the case group. The control group consisted of 88 healthy individuals matched by age and gender. A case-control study design was used. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted on the questionnaire results from
both groups to identify risk factors for RCC through both univariate and multivariate regression analysis.
Results:
A total of 176 participants were included in the study-88 with RCC and 88 without cancer. Statistically significant associations with RCC were found for hypertension, urinary tract diseases, alcohol consumption, and smoking.
Although weight gain appeared to increase the risk for RCC, this was not statistically significant.
Conclusion
Individuals with hypertension, a history of urinary tract diseases, smokers, and alcohol users are at a higher
risk of developing renal cell carcinoma.
6.Effects of flavanone on cancer cells viability
Jadamba Ch ; Erdenezaya O ; Iderjavkhlan S ; Burnee M ; Gurbadam A ; Temuulen D ; Darambazar G ; Oldokh O ; Enkhmaa D ; Giimaa N
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):28-32
Background:
In recent years, scientists have found that certain natural compounds have significant potential in cancer
prevention and early-stage cancer treatment. Flavanones, a class of polyphenolic compounds found in plants, vegetables,
seeds, fruit peels, and flowers, have been identified to possess anticancer, antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, and antibacterial bioactivities. Cancer has become a major global challenge in terms of both economic and public health concerns.
Global statistics indicate that 22.8% of deaths are attributed to non-communicable diseases, and 16.8% are caused by
cancer, accounting for one in four and one in six deaths, respectively.
Aim :
To investigate anticancer effects of Iris Tenuifolia-derived flavanone on cancer cell lines.
Materials and Methods :
The study was conducted at the Bio-Medical Research Institute of the Mongolian National Uni
versity of Medical Sciences, investigating the effect of flavanones on cancer cell viability under in vitro conditions using
the MTT assay. In the study, colon, liver, and lung cancer cells were cultured, stabilized, and used for the experiments.
Colorectal cancer cells (MC38), liver cancer cells (HepG2), and lung cancer cells (A549) were revived, cultured, and
stabilized for use in the experimental procedures. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using Microsoft Excel
2010, and graphs were generated using GraphPad Prism 8. Differences between groups were analyzed using Student’s
t-test, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results :
We treated MC38, HepG2, and A549 cancer cells with different concentrations of flavanone (2.5 µM, 5 µM, and
10 µM) for 24 to 48 hours to evaluate cell viability. Flavanone inhibited A549 cell viability by 2.5 μM-10%, 5 μM-25%,
and 10 μM-38%, respectively. For HepG2 cells, flavanone treatment at concentrations of 5-10 µM reduced cell viability by 28–58%. No statistically significant effect on the viability of MC38 cells was observed following treatment with flavanone at concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 10 µM. Additionally, although MC38 inhibited cell viability in a dose-de
pendent manner in cell cultures, it had a statistically significant effect at higher concentrations of 30-200 μM (p<0.01).
Conclusion
Flavanone inhibits the cancer cell viability in a dose and time dependent manner
7. Impact of Individual Temperament on the Immune Response After COVID-19 Vaccination
Burenjargal B ; Dashpagam O ; Shatar Sh ; Khongorzul T ; Ariunzaya B ; Zolmunkh N ; Gansukh Ch ; Ulziisaikhan B ; Chimidtseren S ; Baasanjargal B ; Enkh-Amar B ; Nomin-Erdene Ts ; Davaalkham D ; Tsogtsaikhan S ; Batbaatar G
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):47-51
Background:
The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Mongolia was reported on November 11, 2020. In response, the
government imposed a nationwide lockdown, which significantly impacted the population’s mental health. Heightened
levels of stress, anxiety, loneliness, and depression during the pandemic altered individuals’ psychological stability and
behavior. Personality traits—defined as relatively stable patterns of emotion, cognition, and behavior—play a key role in
stress responses and emotional regulation under pressure. Emerging evidence suggests that these psychological factors
may influence the immune system’s responsiveness, including vaccine-induced antibody production.
Aim:
To evaluate the association between post-vaccination antibody responses and personality types following two doses
of COVID-19 vaccines.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 738 participants who received two doses of COVID-19 vaccines (AstraZeneca
ChAdOx1, n=29; Pfizer-BioNTech, n=119; Sinopharm BBIBP, n=590) and had no prior SARS-CoV-2 infection were enrolled. Serum samples were collected 21–28 days after the second dose, and SARS-CoV-2 RBD (S) IgG antibodies
were measured using ELISA (Proteintech Inc., USA). Personality types were assessed using a 56-item temperament
questionnaire developed by A. Belov, categorizing individuals into classical temperament types (choleric, phlegmatic,
sanguine, melancholic). Logistic regression and ROC analysis were used to examine associations between personality
types and antibody response.
Results:
The presence of an antibody response was significantly higher among individuals with a melancholic temperament, and significantly lower among those with a phlegmatic temperament. Furthermore, antibody titers were higher in
participants with melancholic and sanguine temperaments and lower in those with a phlegmatic type.
Conclusions
1. During the early period following the second dose of COVID-19 vaccination, the antibody response was higher
in individuals with a pure melancholic temperament, while it was lower in those with a phlegmatic temperament.
2. After the second dose of the Sinopharm BBIBP COVID-19 vaccine, antibody titers were higher in individuals with
pure melancholic and sanguine temperaments, and lower in those with a phlegmatic temperament.
8.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.
9.Reseach Findings on Certain Physical Characteristics of Adolescents in Bulgan Province
Narantuya S ; Sumberzul N ; Bayarmagnai L ; Amarjargal D ; Davaalkham D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):105-111
Background:
The development of a country is often measured by the state of human development, especially maternal
and child health indicators. In Mongolia, public health policies targeting the prevention of non-communicable diseases
related to lifestyle and physical development among adolescents are critically needed. However, there is a lack of regional
studies on adolescent health, particularly in rural areas.
Aim:
To study certain physical development indicators among adolescents in Bulgan province.
Materials and Methods:
This analytical study was conducted in 2022 involving 781 twelve-year-old children. Data were
collected from parents and processed using Stata 17.0. Percentages were calculated for qualitative data, and Chi-square
and Fisher’s exact tests were used for statistical analysis. Where statistically significant, multinomial logistic regression
analysis was applied to identify risk factors affecting physical development.
Results:
52.88% of the participants were boys,92.45% lived in traditional or private hous12.04% of the children showed
growth retardation. 49.68% were overweight.70.94% were classified as overweight or obese based on their Body Mass
Index (BMI).Weak muscle strength (1.66%), flexibility (2.05%), endurance (1.66%), and agility (1.92%) were observed.
Boys were more likely to experience height retardation but had stronger muscle strength.Girls showed a higher prevalence
of being overweight.Children living in the provincial center had higher height and BMI, while those in soum centers
demonstrated statistically significant strength in muscle power, flexibility, and endurance.
Conclusion
1. Among the study participants, 70.94% of children were overweight or obese.
2. 1.66% of the study participants had weak muscle strength, 2.05% had weak flexibility, 1.66% had weak endurance,
and 1.92% had weak speed and agility.
3. The use of mobile phones, parental involvement, inactivity, lack of sports, and lack of horse riding have negative
effects on physical development.
10.Homeobox protein C4 regulates the proliferation, migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells by integrin β1
YUAN Bo1 ; MA Lei2 ; CHEN Xiaobing3 ; CHANG Zhanguo1
Chinese Journal of Cancer Biotherapy 2025;32(4):364-370
[摘 要] 目的:探讨同源框蛋白C4(HOXC4)在胃癌组织和细胞中的表达及其对胃癌细胞增殖、迁移与侵袭的作用及其机制。方法:收集2020年5月至2021年4月期间在南阳市第一人民医院肿瘤科手术切除的16例进展期胃癌患者的癌及癌旁组织标本,以及人胃正常上皮细胞GES-1和胃癌细胞AGS、SGC-790和MGC-803,采用WB法检测胃癌组织和细胞中HOXC4的表达。通过RNA干扰技术对SGC-790及AGS细胞中HOXC4进行敲低或过表达,实验分为sh-HOXC4#1组、sh-HOXC4#2组、sh-Con组、sh-HOXC4 + pc-integrin β1组、pc-HOXC4组、pc-Con组、pc-HOXC4 + pc-integrin β1组。利用EdU、CCK-8、Transwell实验分别检测敲低或过表达HOXC4对各组细胞活力、增殖、侵袭、迁移和integrin β1表达的影响。用敲低HOXC4的胃癌AGS细胞构建荷瘤小鼠模型,观察敲低HOXC4对移植瘤体积及组织中Ki67和integrin β1蛋白表达的影响。结果:胃癌组织和细胞中HOXC4的表达均显著上调(均P < 0.01)。与sh-Con组相比,sh-HOXC4#1组和sh-HOXC4#2组SGC-790及AGS细胞中HOXC4、integrin β1蛋白表达水平,以及细胞的活力、增殖、迁移及侵袭能力均显著降低(均P < 0.01)。与sh-HOXC4组相比,sh-HOXC4 + pc-integrin β1组细胞活力、增殖、迁移及侵袭能力均显著增加(均P < 0.01);与pc-Con组相比,pc-HOXC4组细胞活力、侵袭及迁移能力均显著增加(均P < 0.01);与pc-HOXC4组相比,pc-HOXC4 + pc-integrin β1组细胞活力、迁移及侵袭能力均显著降低(均P < 0.01)。与sh-Con组相比,sh-HOXC4#1组和sh-HOXC4#2组小鼠移植瘤生长缓慢、体积变小,组织中Ki67和integrin β1表达均显著降低(均P < 0.01)。结论:HOXC4在胃癌组织与细胞中表达上调,其通过激活integrin β1信号促进胃癌细胞的增殖、迁移与侵袭。


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