1.Assessment of association between etiology of vitreous hemorrhage and postoperative visual outcome
Munkhsaikhan M ; ; Uranchimeg D ; Baasankhuu J
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;91(1):194-198
Background:
The vitreous body is an inelastic, acellular, avascular, transparent matrix that fills the posterior cavity of the eye. The most common causes of spontaneous vitreous hemorrhage are proliferative diabetic retinopathy (32%), retinal tear (30%), branch retinal vein occlusion- BRVO (11%), and posterior vitreous detachment (8%).
Aim:
To analyze causes and visual outcomes of vitreous hemorrhage.
Materials and Methods:
A hospital-based retrospective study of 102 eyes of 102 consecutive patients with VH, which were managed surgically between January 2014 and January 2017, was performed. The main outcome measure was visual acuity at baseline, at 1, 14 and 28 days post operatively and at last follow up.
Result:
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy, branch retinal vein occlusion constituted the etilogoy of vitreous hemorrhage 62 (31%), 77 (38.50%), respectively. After vitrectomy, logMAR visual acuity significantly improved from 1.81±0.60 to 0.50±0.30 (p=0.032).
Conclusion
Branch retinal vein occlusion is a most common cause of vitreous haemorrhage. The poor presenting visual acuity reflects the severity of causes of vitreous haemorrhage in our environment. The visual prognosis of vitreous BRVO is relatively good.
2.Satisfaction survey on the Anatomy course among first-year medical students
Anujin D ; Nomiungerel R ; Yansanjav D ; Dorjjagdag G ; Nandin G ; Purevsuren Kh ; Dolgorsuren A ; Shine-Od D ; Juramt B ; Uranchimeg D ; Avirmed A ; Nyamdorj D ; Nyamsurendejid D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):6-11
Background:
The cornerstone of medical education in training qualified physicians lies in foundational scientific knowledge, which forms the basis for clinical reasoning and diagnostic-therapeutic decision-making. Anatomy constitutes one of the core foundational subjects within the medical doctor training curriculum and exerts a direct influence on the development of students’ baseline knowledge and the formation of their clinical thinking. This study was conducted to evaluate the anatomy curriculum through assessments by first-year students enrolled in the basic medical education program, with the aim of enhancing instructional quality and improving the structure and organization of the course.
Aim:
To investigate the satisfaction ratings of first-year students in the basic medical education program regarding the Anatomy-1 course.
Material and Methods:
The study was carried out using an analytical cross-sectional design during the first semester of the 2025–2026 academic year. Data were collected from a total of 289 first-year students of the basic medical education program at the School of Bio-Medicine of MNUMS (Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences) using a questionnaire comprising 24 items in total—3 demographic questions, 20 general satisfaction questions, and 1 open-ended question—with each item rated on a 5-point Likert scale. Data were processed using SPSS 23.0 software, employing descriptive statistics, two-sample t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and factor analysis.
Results:
Of the study participants, 14.2% were male and 85.8% were female, with the cohort distributed across programs as follows: TAM 10.38%, TMS 17.30%, MDS 44.29%, PDS 13.15%, and DSS 14.88%. The overall satisfaction level was 4.59±0.66, falling within the “good” range. The highest rating was attributed to “Faculty members possess strong professional knowledge and skills” (DSS, 4.91±0.37), whereas the lowest rating was assigned to “Students’ knowledge and skills are evaluated objectively and fairly” (PDS, 4.16±0.75). The internal consistency coefficient of the questionnaire yielded α=0.909, indicating excellent reliability. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive associations among instructors’ respect for students’ viewpoints (Q4), instructors’ communication and demeanor (Q5), and professional ethics (Q6) (r=0.787; r=0.755; p<0.01). Factor analysis produced a KMO value of 0.865 and a Bartlett’s test result of p=0.000; accordingly, all 20 items were grouped into two factors—”Faculty Professional Competence” and “Learning Environment and Organization”—which collectively accounted for 58.74% of the total variance.
Conclusions
1. The findings indicate that the overall satisfaction of first-year basic medical education students who participated in the study was at a favorable level. 2. Faculty professional competence and the learning environment and organization were identified as factors influencing student satisfaction, explaining 58.74% of the total variance in the results. It was further established that adherence to professional ethics, respect for students’ perspectives, and equitable treatment are contingent upon the instructor’s knowledge and professional expertise.
3.Assessment of first-year basic health science students’ satisfaction with the Anatomy course
Nomiungerel R ; Anujin D ; Yansanjav D ; Dorjjagdag G ; Nandin G ; Purevsuren Kh ; Dolgorsuren A ; Shine-Od D ; Juramt B ; Uranchimeg D ; Avirmed A ; Nyamdorj D ; Nyamsurendejid D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):275-281
Background:
The Anatomy course, which provides general foundational knowledge on the structure of all organ systems of the human body, is a core professional course in the bachelor’s curricula of Pharmacy, Biomedical Science, Hygiene and Epidemiology, Public Health, Occupational Safety and Health, and Nutrition and Dietetics. Student satisfaction is not only an important indicator of the quality of medical education, but also influences graduates’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes; therefore, continuous research in this area is necessary.
Aim:
To determine the level of satisfaction with the Anatomy curriculum among first-year students in basic health science programs and to identify factors influencing their satisfaction, with the aim of improving the quality of teaching.
Materials and Methods:
An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2025 to February 2026 among 182 first-year students enrolled in the following programs at Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS): Biomedical Research, Pharmacy, Health Epidemiology, Public Health, Health Informatics, and Traditional Medicine Therapy. Student satisfaction with the quality of the Anatomy course was assessed using a 24-item questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, applying descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson correlation, factor analysis, and multiple regression analysis. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results:
The internal consistency of the satisfaction scale was very high (Cronbach’s α=0.928). The mean overall satisfaction score of the participants was 4.61±0.67. There was no significant difference in overall satisfaction by gender (p > 0.05). Factor analysis identified two main factors influencing the evaluation of teaching quality (KMO=0.894; Bartlett’s test p<0.001), which together explained 52.73% of the total variance. The first factor was “Teachers’ professional competence, communication, attitude, and assessment,” and the second factor was “Course organization, learning environment, and instructional materials.” Correlation analysis showed that better course organization and higher teacher engagement were positively associated with students’ satisfaction (p<0.01).
Conclusions
1. Among first-year basic health science students, satisfaction with the Anatomy course was influenced by teachers’ professional competence, ethics, interpersonal communication, and fair, objective assessment. 2. Adherence to professional ethics and maintaining respectful communication with students were found to be closely related to teachers’ knowledge and professional skills.
4.Review of studies on the structure and Injuries of the Ankle and Subtalar Joints
Nyamsü ; rendejid D ; Bolormaa G ; Nomiungerel R ; Anujin D ; Dorjjagdag G ; Nyamdorj D ; Uranchimeg D ; Avirmed A ; S.Enebish ; Purevsuren Kh
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):315-319
Background:
The study of the anatomical structure of the ankle joint ligaments is essential for understanding the stability, axis, and movement of the joint, as well as their interrelationship with the function. It also provides fundamental quantitative data for the training and research of physiotherapists, as well as the practice of injury and trauma medicine. Proper diagnosis and treatment of ankle joint injuries, as well as understanding the mechanism of injury, are based on this knowledge. Ankle joint injuries are common, with ligament and tendon injuries accounting for 85% of ankle injuries. In Mongolia, 81.1% of ankle injuries are new, 9.4% are similar to the initial injury, 8.1% are recurrent injuries, and 0.7% have unknown causes. Depending on the mechanism of injury, certain ligaments and connective tissues can be damaged. Ankle ligament injuries are the most common cause of acute ankle pain, and chronic ankle pain is often due to structural changes in the ankle ligaments.
Aim:
To summarize the research on the normal anatomy of the ankle and subtalar joint, as well as the studies on joint injuries, using the dissection method.
Materials and Methods:
Literature search was conducted in Thomson Reuters, Pubmed central database, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases, as well as the statistical data from the Health Development Center and the National Center for Trauma and Orthopedics. Keywords used include: ankle joint, subtalar joint, ankle joint and subtalar joint injuries. A total of 330 publications were identified, and 34 key articles on the normal anatomy of the ankle and subtalar joint, as well as joint injuries, were included in the review.
Results:
The ankle joint is formed between the distal end of the tibia and the superior articular surface of the talus. It allows plantar flexion and dorsiflexion movements, with a normal range of 30 degrees for plantar flexion and 50 degrees for dorsiflexion. The subtalar joint is formed between the posterior articular surfaces of the talus and calcaneus. It allows inversion and eversion movements, with a normal range of 35 degrees for inversion and 20 degrees for eversion. The ankle ligaments are divided into three groups: lateral, medial, and inferior tibiofibular (syndesmotic) ligaments. The most common cause of ankle joint injuries is excessive inversion of the subtalar joint, leading to injuries to the joint capsule, lateral and medial collateral ligaments, and the syndesmotic ligaments. Excessive plantar flexion and dorsiflexion of the ankle joint can also cause injuries to the posterior talofibular ligament, the osteochondral region of the talar neck, and the anterior-inferior margin of the tibia.
Conclusion
Comprehensive study of the ankle joint structure provides the basis for explaining the mechanism of injury. Further research in Mongolia is needed, combining dissection and imaging techniques, to develop standardized evaluation protocols that correlate with clinical outcomes.
5.A study on corneal morphometric parameters among Mongolian adults
Bayarmaa Kh ; Bayarmagnai L ; Bayasgalan P ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):56-61
Background:
The corneal endothelium, the innermost layer of the cornea, is composed of hexagonal cells that maintain
corneal transparency and provide essential nutrients to the stroma. These cells play a critical role in preserving visual acuity. Previous studies have demonstrated that endothelial cells do not regenerate, and their density progressively declines
with age, accompanied by morphological alterations. Given the individual variability in corneal thickness and endothelial
morphology, establishing normative reference values is crucial for diagnosing corneal diseases, planning corneal transplantation, and optimizing surgical strategies for cataract surgery. However, there is a scarcity of data regarding central
corneal thickness, endothelial cell density, and cell morphology among Mongolian adults. This knowledge gap provided
the rationale for the present study.
Aim:
To study the central corneal thickness and endothelial cell morphology in Mongolian adults.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted using an analytical cross-sectional design. A total of 198 individuals
aged 20 to 79 years were randomly selected, and comprehensive ophthalmic examinations were performed. Corneal parameters—including central corneal thickness, endothelial cell density, mean cell area, coefficient of variation of cell size,
and the percentage of hexagonal cells—were quantitatively assessed using a non-contact specular microscope. Ethical
approval was obtained from the Research Ethics Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences
(Approval No. 2024/3-06), and written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to enrollment.
Results:
The mean age of the study participants was 48.4±14.5 years, with 48.9% (n=97) being male and 51.1% (n=101)
female. In the central cornea, the mean endothelial cell density (ECD) was 2857.14±291.49 cells/mm², the mean central
corneal thickness (CCT) was 526.25±33.67 µm, the mean cell area was 335.11±37.82 µm², the percentage of hexagonal
cells was 64.81±3.94%, and the coefficient of variation (CV) in cell size was 0.31±0.04. With increasing age, both ECD
and the percentage of hexagonal cells showed a statistically significant decline, while the mean cell area and CV demon
strated a significant inverse correlation (P=0.0001). No statistically significant differences were observed in corneal thickness or endothelial morphometric parameters between the right and left eyes or between sexes. Among the Mongolian
adults, the endothelial cell density decreases by approximately 0.3% annually (r=0.2107, p<0.0001).
Conclusion
1. The mean central corneal thickness (CCT) in adult Mongolian individuals was 526.25±33.67 μm, which is comparable to reported averages from other populations. However, the mean endothelial cell density (ECD) was relatively
higher, measured at 2857.14±291.49 cells/mm².
2. With advancing age, a progressive decline in central endothelial cell density and the proportion of hexagonal cells
was observed, whereas the coefficient of variation (CV) in cell size and the mean cell area showed a corresponding
increase
6.Determination sugar and brix content in Mongolian sugar-sweetened beverages
Nyamsuren A ; Khaliun B ; Uranchimeg L ; Nandin-Erdene O ; Gantuya D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):30-34
Background:
The main risk factors for childhood overweight and obesity include the consumption of sugar-sweetened
beverages and other sweetened foods. The sugar content of sugar-sweetened beverages was different from the nutritional
information on the packaging.
Aim:
To determine sugar and brix content in domestic manufactured sugar-sweetened beverages, and compare information on the packaging and regulatory standards.
Materials and Methods:
The sugar and brix content in sugar-sweetened beverages was determined by laboratory anal
ysis, including 150 domestically manufactured sugar-sweetened beverages. Laboratory analysis carried out in the Chemical toxicology laboratory of the National Reference Laboratory for Food Safety, MASM, determined sugar using a
saccharometer and brix using refractometry.
:
Results: The study included 150 Mongolian sugar-sweetened beverages, including 20.7% (n=31) carbonated drinks,
47.3% (n=71) fruit drinks, 16.0% (n=24) tea drinks, 1.3% (n=2) energy drinks, 14.7% (n=22) flavored water. Sugar content 0.0–15.6% in sugar-sweetened beverages. The laboratory analysis results compared with information on the packaging 72.0% (n=108) difference between 0.1–11.3%, 10.7% (n=16) same, do not have sugar content in the nutritional information on the packaging 17.3% (n=26). Brix contained 0.2–13.0% carbonated drinks, 4.9–15.7% fruit drinks, 0.6–9.8%
tea drinks, 7.7–16.0% energy drinks, and 0.1–9.7% flavored water.
Conclusions
1. Sugar content 0.0–15.6%, brix 0.0–16.0% in Mongolian sugar-sweetened beverages.
2. The laboratory analysis results compared with nutritional information on the packaging 72.0% (n=108) difference
between 0.1–11.3%, 10.7% (n=16) same nutritional information on the packaging, do not have sugar content in the
nutritional information on the packaging 17.3% (n=26).
3. 37.3% of Mongolian sugar-sweetened beverages are unsatisfied with regulatory standards.
7.Central serous chorioretinopathy
Temuulen B ; Baasansuren G ; Byambadorj M ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):257-262
Background:
Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is described by researchers as a condition that results from fluid
under the retinal pigment epithelium, originating from the choroid of the eye. This disease usually affects the central part
of vision and may resolve on its own over time, though in some cases, it can persist for long periods or recur. In our country, there is a lack of research regarding this condition, which led to the motivation for gathering and reviewing existing
works on this topic.
Aim:
To collect and analyze a review of the studies on central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR).
Methods:
We reviewed and analyzed literature related to CSCR published in electronic sources such as Thomson Reuters, PubMed-central database, and Google Scholar using literature review methods.
Results:
CSCR is most commonly seen in individuals aged 35-55 years, with a significantly higher prevalence in men
(9.9/100,000) compared to women (1.7/100,000). Researchers found that the prevalence of CSCR is nearly the same
among populations in Europe, Africa, and Asia. CSCR typically affects one eye, but it occurs in both eyes in up to 40%
of cases. Weenink A (2001) studied the family members of 27 patients with bilateral CSCR, finding that 52% of family
members had been diagnosed with CSCR, and 27.5% of them had chronic CSCR in at least one eye. This suggests a
potential genetic predisposition to CSCR. According to researchers, while CSCR can be diagnosed clinically, additional
imaging techniques like fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography are frequently used to rule out other
diagnoses and guide treatment.
Conclusion
CSCR generally has a favorable prognosis, but recurrences and its effects on visual function indicate the
need for effective management strategies. To maintain long-term visual improvement, it is essential to provide healthcare
services tailored to the patient’s specific conditions and risk factors.
8.Quality Assurance of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit - A Single Center Study
Sarantuya Ts ; Amarjargal B ; Tungalag B ; Khishgee D ; Amarmend T ; Delgertsog T ; Amarjargal E ; Sarantuya G ; Gan-Orshikh L ; Enkhjargal B ; Sarantsatsral D ; Burentungalag A ; Nandintsetseg B ; Tserendolgor Ts ; Sattgul Sh ; Javzanpagma E ; Suvdantsetseg B ; Khashchuluun O ; Ouynkhishig N ; Munkhtuya E ; Uranchimeg M ; Oyuntungalag L ; Myadagmaa B ; Bat-Erdene I ; Batgombo N ; Saranbaatar A
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):165-170
Background:
Accreditation of healthcare institutions serves as a fundamental mechanism for ensuring patient safety
and validating the quality of medical services provided to the population. At Intermed Hospital, a quality measurement
system for healthcare services has been established since 2015, encompassing 126 quality indicators at both institutional
and departmental levels. This system facilitates continuous quality improvement efforts. In this context, quality indicators
specific to the endoscopy department play a pivotal role in objectively assessing the quality of endoscopic services.
Aim:
To assess the quality indicators in gastrointestinal endoscopy unit.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective single-center study was conducted by collecting data from the Intermed hospital’s
electronic information systems which included HIS and PACS and Quality and Safety Department’s Database and the results
were processed using the SPSS software. Ethical approval was granted by the Intermed hospital’s Scientific research
committee. The quality of endoscopic services in the Intermed hospital was assessed based on: a) the average values of
four quality indicators measured monthly; b) sample survey data from five categories of quality indicators.
Results :
Between 2016 and 2024, the quality indicators of the endoscopy unit measured as the level of early warning
score evaluations for patients was 95.97%±3.33, the level of cases where peripheral blood oxygen saturation decreased
during sedation was 1.54%±3.78, the level of cases where patients experienced paradoxiical response during sedation was
5.82%±1.75, surveillance culturing level for validation of endoscopy reprocessing was 11.6%. The endoscopic documentation
quality by peer review showed 95.7-100%, the colonoscopy quality indicators were followings as adenoma
detection rate: 24.5% Cecal intubation rate: 99.1%, 95.2%, Colonoscope withdrawal average time: 13.28±10.62 minutes,
Bowel preparation quality (Boston Scale): 89.3% 95.7%), patient discharge from the recovery room, Average discharge
time post-procedure: With propofol alone: 30.92 minutes; With propofol and fentanyl combined: 31.52 minutes, The intermediate
risk was 0.28% by the TROOPS evaluation during procedural sedation.
Conclusion
The quality benchmark levels for these endoscopic units, as determined by a single-center study, can be
effectively implemented by benchmark endoscopy centers to enhance their quality and safety operations.
9.Treatment outcomes of patients diagnosed with mental disorders after discharge from hospitalization during the covid-19 pandemic
Enkhtuvshin R ; Mongoljin A ; Munkh E ; Uranchimeg M ; Yelik M ; Amirlan B ; Yerkyebulan A ; Munkh-Uchral D ; Maidar E ; Amarsaikhan A ; Enkhnaran T ; Оtgonbayar R ; Nasantsengel L ; Khishigsuren Z
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2025;213(3):3-14
Background:
The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a global mental health crisis. According to WHO
estimates, anxiety and depression rose by 25% in the first year. In the post-COVID era, over
70% of patients experience depression, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, and OCD, which can persist
for up to 24 months. Hospitalized individuals face heightened risks due to infection severity,
treatment stress, and social isolation. However, studies examining treatment outcomes and
influencing factors remain limited. In Mongolia, mental health issues escalated sharply from
2020 to 2022; WHO data indicate that anxiety and stress were prevalent among healthcare workers and patients. Children and youth were particularly affected, with UNICEF studies
emphasizing the urgent need for intervention. Suicide rates increased from 18.3 per 100,000.
Long-term research on post-COVID mental disorders is scarce, impeding policy formulation.
This study evaluates treatment outcomes in COVID patients and identifies key factors. By
comparing case and control groups at 3 and 12 months, it uncovers differences in symptoms
and treatment responses. The comparative design assesses statistical significance via
P-values and subgroup success rates for CBT and SSRI therapies. Findings will enhance
Mongolia’s mental health services. Larger-scale studies are essential moving forward.
Objective:
To evaluate treatment outcomes for post-COVID mental disorders and identify influencing
factors. To analyze differences in psychological symptoms and treatment between case
(COVID-19 positive) and control groups over 3 and 12 months.
Material and Method:
Retrospective comparative analysis of records from 281 patients (cases n=181, controls
n=100) at a unified hospital from 2020-2022. At 12 months, n=200 (cases n=100, controls
n=100). Patients were categorized by anxiety, depression, insomnia, and stress-related
symptoms, with P-values calculated. Detailed subgroup analysis (n=47 treated patients) was
conducted.
Results:
At 3 months, cases showed higher anxiety (56.4%, P=0.002), depression (41.4%, P<0.001),
and insomnia (58%, P=0.107). At 12 months, differences lessened but anxiety (52%, P=0.023)
and depression (35%, P=0.042) remained significant. COVID-related new symptoms were
elevated in cases (e.g., depression 24.3%, P<0.001). Treatment subgroup success was
95.7% (P<0.001), with duration influencing outcomes (P=0.03).
Conclusion
Post-COVID mental symptoms persist long-term in cases, and extended treatment
durations yield better results. Larger studies are required
10.Assessment of the biofilm-forming ability of Staphylococcus aureus
Amgalanzaya D ; Batzaya B ; Uranchimeg R ; Badmaarag M ; Sarantuya J ; Munkhdelger Ya
Diagnosis 2025;115(4):43-50
Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a clinically significant pathogen widely distributed in food production environments. Its ability to form biofilms on food contact surfaces enhances 50 environmental persistence, increases antibiotic resistance 10–1500-fold, and poses serious challenges for food safety and public health. In Mongolia, data on the biofilm-forming ability of S. aureus in meat processing and retail environments are limited. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 437 samples collected from meat supply and retail sites, including raw meat, aprons, counters, trolleys, and workers’ hands. Isolation and confirmation of S. aureus were performed using MNS 6308:2012 and ISO 6888-1:2021 standards, followed by PCR amplification of the species-specific nucA gene (270 bp). Biofilm formation was evaluated using the microtiter plate assay with 0.5% glucose supplemented tryptic soy broth and optical density at 490 nm, and confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square tests with p< 0.05 considered significant. Of the 437 samples, 14.2% (62/437) were contaminated with S. aureus. Contamination was higher in retail markets (25.9%) than supply sites (9.3%). Among isolates, 40.3% exhibited biofilm-forming ability: 29.0% weak, 9.7% moderate, and 1.6% strong. Biofilm formation did not significantly differ by sampling site or sample type (p>0.05). SEM imaging revealed distinct biofilm architectures with polysaccharide matrices at 80,000× magnification. A considerable proportion of S. aureus isolates from meat processing and retail environments exhibited biofilm forming ability, posing a potential risk for cross-contamination and persistent foodborne transmission. Strengthened hygiene and sanitation measures are essential to control biofilm-associated S. aureus contamination in Mongolia’s meat production and supply chain.
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