Background: Healthcare workers play a key role in the transmission of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in healthcare settings. Staphylococcus aureus is a major cause of healthcare associated infections, including surgical site infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia, and bloodstream infections.
The anterior nares serve as an important reservoir for this pathogen, facilitating its spread within healthcare environments. In recent years, the rising prevalence of antimicrobial resistance has become a major public health concern, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.
Therefore, assessing nasal carriage and antimicrobial resistance patterns among healthcare workers is essential for effective infection prevention and control. Objective: To detect Staphylococcus aureus from nasal swabs of healthcare workers and to determine its antimicrobial susceptibility profile, with a particular focus on resistant strains. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 159 healthcare workers from six private hospitals in Songino Khairkhan district. Nasal vestibule swabs were collected and cultured on 5% blood agar and CHROMagar™ MRSA. Bacterial identification was performed using conventional microbiological techniques and API identification systems. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using the disk diffusion method and interpreted according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 24. The study protocol was submitted to and approved by the Research Ethics Subcommittee of “Ach” Medical University on November 11, 2025. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to sample collection. Results: A total of 159 nasal swabs were collected from healthcare workers, from which 58 (36.5%) bacterial strains were isolated. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent pathogen, accounting for 50 (86.2%) of the total isolates, representing an overall carrier rate of 31.4% (50/159) among the participants. Other identified species included Enterococcus spp. (n=5, 8.6%), Streptococcus viridans (n=2, 3.4%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n=1, 1.7%). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that 76% (n=38) of the S. aureus isolates were Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and 21% (n=10) were Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR). Additionally, Vancomycin-Resistant S. aureus (VRSA) and Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE) were each detected at a rate of 0.6% Conclusion Antibiotic-resistant bacteria were identified in 44 (27.7%) of samples collected from healthcare workers, indicating the presence of multidrug resistance.
The detection of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), along with vancomycin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA), among healthcare workers indicates a potential risk for the dissemination of highly resistant pathogens.

Background: Sand play benefits young children’s physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development and can help meet the WHO’s daily activity recommendation of 180 minutes. Children consider playing with sand as a pleasurable activity, which allows them to interact with materials, explore, and use them creatively to develop their imagination. However, sand provides a favorable environment for the growth and development of microorganisms. Objective: To assess bacterial and parasitic contamination in playground sand and compare the findings with established hygiene standards. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using a descriptive cross-sectional design. Thirteen kindergartens were selected through simple random sampling from a total of 39 public kindergartens in Bayangol District, Ulaanbaatar. The research was carried out using laboratory analysis methods. Collected data were compiled using Microsoft Excel and Word 2016, and processed with SPSS version 24 Results: The total bacterial contamination of the sand samples collected in the study was 2.2 Ч 10⁵ CFU/g, indicating heavy contamination. The analysis showed that Clostridium perfringens was present in 100% of samples (n=13), Escherichia coli in 92.8% (n=12), Bacillus subtilis in 46.1% (n=6), and Acinetobacter in 7.7% (n=1). Additionally, mold was detected in 38.4% of the samples (n=5). Parasite eggs were found in 54% (n=7) of the samples from the 13 kindergartens. Analysis of the types of parasite eggs revealed that Ascaris lumbricoides was present in 28.5% (n=2), Enterobius vermicularis in 28.5% (n=2), Balantidium coli in 57.1% (n=4), and Toxocara spp. in 14.2% (n=1) of the positive samples. Conclusion Playground sand is highly contaminated with bacteria and parasites, posing infection risks, and is influenced by animal feces, poor sanitation, and environmental conditions.

Introduction: This study highlights the importance of access to treatment services and medicines. Research has shown that a significant portion of direct expenses for individuals who are not covered by health insurance is allocated to treatment, diagnostics, and medication costs, indicating issues with the accessibility and quality of health services.
According to the World Health Organization recommendations, if out-of-pocket health expenses exceed 25% of total health financing, it heightens the risk of deepening poverty and creates inequalities related to income.
Although policies and programs aimed at increasing access to subsidized medicines are being implemented, the expected outcomes and actual implementation of these initiatives have not fully met the health needs of the entire population.
Therefore, addressing these issues is essential. For instance, improving the regulation of medicine prices, ensuring adequate supply, and enhancing the subsidy system may be necessary steps moving forward. Methods: This study was conducted using a cross sectional design, employing methods such as document analysis, comparative study, and synthesis.
The list of discounted medicines provided by the health insurance fund includes 650 items from 161 manufacturers across 40 countries. Among these medicines, 7% have expired registration, 9% have been removed from registration, 11% are out of stock, and 73% are supplied normally. Of the medicines listed, 7% are domestic, and 93% are imported, with 39% coming from Asian countries and 54% from European countries, indicating a high reliance on imports for medicine supply and accessibility. A study of the medicines supplied by the pharmaceutical supply organizations shows that 16.5% of the prices are above the maximum price set by the health insurance fund, indicating the need for establishing medicine prices based on research and evidence. Conclusion Out of the 650 types of medicines registered in the list of subsidized medicines, 27% are in a status of expired, removed, or out of stock. The price from the pharmaceutical supply organizations exceeds the upper limit of the subsidized medicine prices set by the insurance fund, covering 83.5% of the total group of medicines.
Therefore, it is necessary to update the list of subsidized medicines from the health insurance fund based on research and evidence.

Abstract Over the past decade, Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have emerged as transformative forces in healthcare, particularly in pharmaceutical policy, regulation, and drug safety surveillance. These technologies enable the systematic collection, integration, and analysis of large-scale and heterogeneous data, thereby strengthening evidence-based decision-making across the pharmaceutical lifecycle. International experience demonstrates that the integration of AI and Big Data supports early detection of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), enhances pharmacovigilance systems, automates regulatory processes, and accelerates drug discovery and development. AI-driven methods, including machine learning and natural language processing (NLP), facilitate the identification of latent patterns and risk signals from diverse data sources such as clinical trials, Real World Evidence (RWE), electronic health records, and spontaneous reporting systems.
Despite these global advances, the application of AI and Big Data within Mongolia’s pharmaceutical policy and regulatory framework remains limited. Key challenges include fragmented and poorly integrated data sources, insufficient data standardization, underdeveloped information technology infrastructure, limited human resource capacity, and gaps in legal and ethical governance. International initiatives offer valuable reference models for addressing these challenges. The World Health Organization’s VigiBase employs AI and NLP techniques to identify global ADR trends, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Sentinel Initiative integrates RWE to support proactive drug safety monitoring, and the Republic of Korea’s Disease Control and Prevention Agency has implemented an NLP-based pharmacovigilance system for automated risk detection.
This study aims to assess the applicability of Big Data and AI in Mongolia’s pharmaceutical policy and regulatory system through a comparative analysis of international best practices and the identification of key implementation gaps. The findings emphasize the need for integrated data systems, harmonized standards, localized AI application models, and robust regulatory and ethical frameworks. Overall, the study highlights the potential of Big Data and AI to modernize pharmaceutical policy and regulation in Mongolia and provides evidence-based directions for sustainable implementation aligned with international best practices.

Introduction: University students encounter multiple academic, psychosocial, and environmental stressors during their transition to higher education. Nursing students may be particularly vulnerable because of concurrent academic and clinical demands. Objective: To identify the relationships among perceived stress, social support, and psychological anxiety among nursing students. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among first- to fourth-year nursing students at the International University of Ulaanbaatar. After excluding 16 incomplete questionnaires, 119 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability testing, and correlation analysis in SPSS version 26.
Participants had a mean age of 22.39±5.60 years, and 86.6% were female. The mean item scores were 3.15±0.40 for perceived stress, 4.11±0.78 for social support, and 2.35±0.39 for total anxiety. Perceived stress was positively correlated with total anxiety (r=.310, p=.001), personal anxiety (r=.307, p=.001), and situational anxiety (r=.261, p=.004), and negatively correlated with age (r=-.213, p=.020). Social support was not significantly correlated with perceived stress (r=.015, p=.872) but was negatively correlated with total anxiety (r=-.253, p=.005) and personal anxiety (r=-.334, p<.001). Conclusion Students’ perceived stress was associated with anxiety. Higher social support was related to lower anxiety, although a direct relationship between social support and perceived stress was not observed in this sample.

The study is devoted to the morphological characteristics of the maturation of lung tissue structures in the fetal period. Fetal histology of the lungs presents the intrauterine development of lung tissue in four successive stages: pseudoglandular, canalicular, saccular and alveolar, each has specific morphological criteria. The following morphological features are predetermined: the development of alveolar epithelium, the ratio of mesenchyme towards the area in alveolar spaces, the degree of proliferation and location of vessels of the microcirculatory bed towards prealveolar partitions. During the fetal period the alveolar columnar epithelium is flattened and differentiates into alveolocytes type I lung histology with the demonstration of histological preparations of the lungs at different stages of intrauterine development. Keywords: fetal lungs, prealveolar structures, pseudoglandular stage, canalicular stage, alveolar stage, alveolar capillary membrane, immunohistochemical study. 16 and II, the area of the mesenchyme gradually decreases and by the birth of a full-term newborn kid it is present mainly in the thickness between the alveolar septa, microcirculation vessels, initially laying deep in the thickness of the mesenchymal tissue, gradually proliferate, approach the pre-alveolar epithelium, channeling it with the formation of alveolar capillary membranes. Air exchange in the lung tissue is mainly provided with two factors: the presence of second-order alveolocytes capable of producing surfactant, and a sufficient formation of alveolias well. This work summarizes the basics of fetal lung histology with the demonstration of histological preparations of the lungs at different stages of intrauterine development.

Abstract Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, affects millions of people worldwide. Significant advancements in both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches have greatly improved outcomes, particularly for individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy. Modern neurostimulation techniques such as Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS), Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), and Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing seizure frequency in these patients. Additionally, emerging technologies like gene therapy and optogenetics are being explored to better understand the underlying mechanisms of epilepsy and hold promise as future treatment modalities.Traditional imaging techniques often fail to detect subtle epileptogenic zones. However, the introduction of ultra high-field 7T MRI scanners represents a major breakthrough. These advanced scanners use eight transmitters to generate higher-resolution images, reducing signal dropout and enabling the identification of previously undetected lesions. In one study involving 31 patients, 58% had their treatment plans modified based on 7T MRI findings, highlighting its potential to inform surgical decision-making. In terms of pharmacological treatment, newer medications such as sultiame, cannabidiol (CBD), and non-pharmacological approaches like the ketogenic diet have emerged as additional therapeutic options for drug-resistant epilepsy. These developments contribute to more effective, personalized management strategies for epilepsy. In summary, the landscape of epilepsy diagnosis and treatment is rapidly evolving. Innovations in imaging and therapeutic interventions are offering new hope for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. Ongoing research and clinical trials remain essential to further refine these approaches and improve patient outcomes.

: We report a case of a 1-day-old neonate presenting with classic clinical and radiologic features of sacral agenesis, a rare congenital disorder. Early identification and multidisciplinary management are critical to improving outcomes. Case Presentation : A full-term, 1-day-old infant was examined for multiple congenital deformities. Physical f indings included a large head, round eyes, and a shallow chest. The lower limbs were short, internally rotated, and stiff, with minimal mobility at the hip and knee joints. External rotation of the hips was not possible, and both feet were turned inward.
A CT scan of the lumbar spine (without contrast) revealed normal cervical and thoracic vertebrae. However, one thoracic vertebra showed an unclear structure. At the spine’s end, a 2.0 × 1.5 × 1.1 cm spindle shaped mass with a density of +14 to +27 HU was seen under the skin on the right. The pelvis appeared underdeveloped, with an incomplete oblique fracture of the upper right midshaft femur. Upright radiography confirmed underdeveloped pelvic bones. The medial malleolus and tibia appeared symmetrical bilaterally. Epidemiology: Sacral agenesis (caudal regression syndrome) is a rare congenital condition with an estimated incidence of 1 in 100,000 live births. It is more common in infants born to mothers with pregestational diabetes, although it can occur sporadically. Both genetic and environmental factors may contribute.[11] Discussion : Sacral agenesis results from abnormal development of the caudal mesoderm during early embryogenesis, leading to partial or complete absence of the sacrum and sometimes lumbar spine. The severity ranges from isolated sacral agenesis to complete lumbosacral agenesis with associated genitourinary, gastrointestinal, and limb deformities. [8-10].
The current case presented with classic signs: bilateral lower limb deformities, limited joint mobility, underdeveloped pelvis, and a spinal abnormality. The presence of a spindle-shaped subcutaneous mass may represent a lipoma or associated spinal dysraphism. The incomplete femoral fracture may be due to birth trauma in the context of fragile bones or abnormal limb positioning.
Early imaging helps confirm the diagnosis and evaluate associated anomalies. Management typically involves orthopedic, neurologic, and urologic interventions. Long-term care focuses on mobility, continence, and developmental support. [13,14]. Conclusion: This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing sacral agenesis at birth through clinical examination and radiological imaging. Although rare, early diagnosis is vital for implementing supportive care and planning multidisciplinary interventions. Close follow-up is essential to monitor motor development and prevent complications. Ethical Considerations (EHT) : Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board. Parental consent was secured for the publication of clinical data and images. All procedures followed ethical standards of clinical care and the Helsinki Declaration. Confidentiality of patient information has been maintained throughout the report. No invasive procedures beyond standard diagnostics were performed. Acknowledgments The authors thank the Neonatology and Radiology Departments of Regional Diagnostic Center of Umnugovi Province for their contributions to the diagnosis and imaging. We also appreciate the cooperation of the child’s family and the medical ethics committee for guidance and approval. Special acknowledgment to the Division of Pediatric Neonatologists for their early intervention planning and support.

Background: Nicotine-containing vaporized liquids—composed of propylene glycol, glycerin, water, flavorings, and the thickening agent vitamin E acetate—have been implicated in the development of EVALI. Under conditions of low liquid levels and overheating, these substances release toxic carbonyl compounds (e.g., formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein). In a 2019 national survey, 3.5% of adolescents aged 13–15 reported cigarette use, and 10% used e-cigarettes. Aim: To study the changes in the behavior, lung, and hippocampal structures of rats due to the effects of electronic cigarettes and their vapor. Materials and Methods: In this study, nineteen 14-day-old SHR rats were exposed to 1 g/mg/day of nicotine and dry hit vapor (control, nicotine and dry hit groups) for four weeks. Behavioral assessments (Open Field Test, Elevated Plus Maze, Conditioned Place Preference), bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), and histological analysis of lung and hippocampal tissue were conducted. Results: The dry hit vapor group showed significantly reduced body weight (p=0.034), increased anxiety (p=0.006, p=0.025), and avoidance of the smoky chamber. BAL revealed elevated total cells, neutrophils, and macrophages (p=0.01, p=0.04) in both nicotine and dry hit groups. Lung tissue exhibited alveolar septal thickening, inflammation, and emphysema- like changes. Extensive neuronal death was observed in the hippocampus. Conclusion Anxiety-like behavior was observed in both the burn and control groups. Analysis of BAL in the dry hit group revealed inflammation predominantly characterized by macrophage infiltration. Histological examination of lung tissue from both experimental groups demonstrated a reduction in the number of alveoli, accompanied by acute inflammation and thickening of the interalveolar septa. In the hippocampal region, neuronal loss and a reduction in neuronal density were also observed.

Introduction: Higher education plays a crucial role in the development and progress of a country. The refinement and effective implementation of the legal environment directly influence the quality and accessibility of the sector.
The purpose of higher education is to contribute to social and economic development, to advance innovative ideas, research, and creativity, and to prepare ethical citizens capable of working and living in multicultural environments. Since the enactment of the Law on Education, Mongolia has amended it more than 20 times. Due to global trends in educational development, changes in teaching methods, content, and learning environments, as well as increased learning opportunities through information and communication technologies, there is a growing societal demand to provide quality education that meets the needs and interests of citizens. Therefore, it is essential to continuously improve and refine the legal and policy environment.
Studying the legal framework of higher education institutions is a fundamental step toward enhancing the sector’s development and quality. Evaluating how laws are implemented helps improve the effectiveness of legal regulations and policy enforcement.
A job description is an official document that defines the functions of a specific position and certifies the required education, profession, qualifications, experience, and skills of the employee carrying out those duties. In today’s society, the operations of any organization especially educational institutions must be organized within the legal framework and based on internal rules, regulations, and job descriptions.
The implementation and compliance of these documents have a direct impact on organizational performance. As there is a need to assess the legal basis and consistency of the regulations, rules, and job descriptions at the Mongolian University of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MUPS), this study is grounded in identifying the current situation and improving legal frameworks accordingly. Materials and Methods: A total of 250 internal legal documents of MUPS were reviewed using the Compliance Matrix method. Data were processed and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 23. Statistical significance was considered at p<0.05. Conclusion While the legal compliance of MUPS’s internal regulations and job descriptions is at a moderate level, several documents need to be revised and aligned with current legal reforms. It is also essential to promptly develop missing job descriptions in accordance with relevant standards.