Background: Elite athletes regularly participate in national and international sporting competitions while simultaneously engaging in high-intensity and intensified training programs. Therefore, assessing changes in blood biochemical parameters is of considerable importance for evaluating athletes’ physiological adaptation to training loads. In particular, determining the activity of lactate dehydrogenase enzyme in athletes’ blood plasma provides a scientific basis for improving individual performance, evaluating sports performance, and enhancing the effectiveness of future training programs. Aim: To examine plasma lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity in athletes of the Mongolian National Team. Materials and Methods: A total of 51 athletes, including 26 men and 25 women from 6 types of sports of the Mongolian National Team included in the study. Anaerobic capacity was assessed using a Monark 894E Ergomedic Peak Bike, designed to apply exercise load. Blood serum lactate level and lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity were determined using a Biobase BK-280 fully automated biochemical analyzer. Heart rate, peripheral blood oxygen levels, and oxygen saturation were measured using a pulse oximeter. Result: The average age of the participating was 24.04±4.15 years, with average height of 168±8.78 cm and average weight of 71.01±7.69 kg. The average BMI was 24.82±4.12 kg/m². Pre-exercise lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity averaged 177.1±28.96 U/L, while post-exercise lactate dehydrogenase activity averaged 223.5±51.56 U/L. The average heart rate before exercise was 66.04±8.9 bpm, while post-exercise heart rate was 123.6±16.06 bpm. The average VO2 max was 95.18±2.48. Conclusion The activity of the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase before and after exercise showed significant differences in the age groups 20-29 (p<0.01). When comparing lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity before and after exercise by sport, statistically significant increases were observed in freestyle wrestling and judo athletes (p<0.01).

Background: Numerous studies have shown that air pollution is a serious public health threat and risk worldwide. Mongolia is the world leader in outdoor and indoor air pollution, and the morbidity and mortality caused by it are increasing every year. People spend most of their lives indoors, and it is necessary to regularly assess and study indoor air pollution. Aim: To study the concentration of PM2.5 particles in the indoor air of households in Ulaanbaatar and Darkhan cities in relation to some symptoms of respiratory diseases. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using an analytical cohort design from October 2023 to July 2025, and the 4 districts of the central Ulaanbaatar city and Darkhan cities were included in the study. A total of 240 households were included in the study, including 48 households living in ger and house, 24 households living in apartments, and 48 households living in ger and house, and 24 households living in apartments from Ulaanbaatar city. A direct measurement device (PurpleAir) was installed in the households for 3-4 weeks to measure PM2.5 particles in the indoor air for 24 hours. After measuring PM2.5 particles in the indoor air of the household, data were collected through questionnaires from the participants aged 18-60 who participated in the study and underwent health examinations. The results were processed using STATA-19.0 and R programs. Result: 213-239 households were selected for the study, including households living in 17-26 apartments, 42-58 houses, and 38-50 houses. The 24-hour average concentration of PM2.5 particles in the ambient air of households in Ulaanbaatar city was measured relatively higher in winter and summer than in households in Darkhan city. Among the districts of Ulaanbaatar city, the highest concentration of PM2.5 particles was measured in Songinokhairkhan district, and the lowest concentration was measured in Bayanzurkh district. Considering the cities by heating type, households with stoves are more polluted than households with centralized heating. In Darkhan city, the lowest concentration was measured in apartments (22.78-31.53 μg/m³), houses (44.53-68.17 μg/m³), and the highest concentration was measured in traditional felt houses (houses) (63.20-68.25 μg/m³). In Ulaanbaatar, PM2.5 concentrations were relatively high in all types of housing, including apartments (41.61-58.37 μg/m³), houses (79.22-92.50 μg/m³), and traditional felt dwellings (76.69-86.31 μg/m³). In the summer, PM2.5 concentrations in Darkhan were 3.10-10.03 μg/m³ in apartments, 7.67-14.37 μg/m³ in houses, and 7.98-17.90 μg/m³ in traditional felt dwellings (houses). The concentration of PM2.5 particles in the ambient air of the settlement is statistically significantly associated with shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, muscle pain, nausea, palpitations, sneezing, runny nose, conjunctivitis, pain in the eye socket, tearing of the eyes, headache, fever, nasal congestion, cough, loss of appetite, sore throat, phlegm, wheezing, and chest pain. Conclusion The 24-hour average concentration of PM2.5 particles in indoor air in households in Ulaanbaatar and Darkhan cities is higher than the Mongolian standard during winter and is statistically significantly associated with some symptoms of respiratory diseases.

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.

Background: Plants rich in essential oils belong to more than 50 families, including Asteraceae, Rutaceae, and Lamiaceae. These plants are widely used in food, traditional and modern medicine, perfumery, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. Approximately 3,000 types of essential oils have been identified, of which more than 300 are utilized for industrial and commercial purposes. Essential oils exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cytotoxic, and antioxidant activities and are therefore widely applied in medical research. In Mongolia, the extreme climate, distinct ecological regions, and the prevalence of pastoral livestock husbandry provide a scientific basis for investigating essential oil–containing plants, their chemical composition, and biological activities. Among them, Juniperus Sabina L. is of particular theoretical and practical interest. Aim: To determine the non-toxic dose of essential oil extracted from Juniper Sabina L. on neural cells. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at the Institute of Bio-Medicine, MNUMS. Ethical approval was obtained from the Research Ethics Committee of MNUMS (Meeting date: November 21, 2025; Protocol No. 2025-26/0301). BV2 microglial and N2a neuronal cell lines were cultured under standard conditions at 37°C in a 5% CO₂ incubator. Cells were maintained in appropriate culture media, and their growth and morphology were monitored microscopically before experimentation. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay. BV2 microglial cells were seeded into 96-well plates at a density of 2×10⁴ cells/well and incubated for 24 hours. Essential oil was added at concentrations ranging from 50–500 µg/mL and incubated for an additional 24 hours. After treatment, MTT reagent was added and incubated for 3 hours. The resulting formazan crystals were dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and absorbance was measured at 630 nm. Cell viability was calculated based on absorbance values to determine the non-toxic concentration of the essential oil. Result: The cytotoxic effects of the essential oil were evaluated in BV2 microglial and N2a neuronal cells using the MTT assay. In N2a neuronal cells, concentrations of 50, 100, 200, and 300 µg/mL did not significantly affect cell viability, whereas 400 and 500 µg/mL reduced cell viability, indicating cytotoxic effects. Conclusion According to MTT assay results, the essential oil of Juniperus sabina showed no cytotoxic effect on N2a neuronal cells at concentrations of 50, 100, 200, and 300 µg/mL, while cytotoxic effects were observed at 400 and 500 µg/mL. In BV2 microglial cells, concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL were non-toxic, whereas concentrations above 300 µg/mL exhibited cytotoxic effects.

Background: Evaluation of genotoxic potential is essential for reducing carcinogenic risk and for assessing the safety of newly developed pharmaceutical products, traditional herbal medicines, and health supplements. Such evaluation plays an important role in protecting human health. Therefore, in Mongolia, it is necessary to investigate the safety of domestically produced pharmaceutical preparations, natural products, and traditional medicines on a scientific basis in accordance with international standards; to develop and implement national policies and standards; to introduce and localize appropriate methodologies; to protect human health; to prevent cancer, hereditary diseases, and longterm adverse effects; and to promote the rational use of medicines. Aim: To investigate the mutagenic properties of an herbal combination preparation in vitro and its genotoxic effects in vivo. Materials and Methods: Extracts were prepared from Dasiphora fruticosa, Cynara scolymus, and Rosa acicularis, and a herbal combination preparation was formulated in specific proportions. Mutagenicity was evaluated according to OECD Guideline 471 (Bacterial Reverse Mutation Test) using the Salmonella typhimurium TA100 strain under both S9 (-) and S9 (+) conditions with the Muta-Chromoplate™ assay. The combination preparation was tested at concentrations of 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, 0.3125, and 0.1562 mg/mL in 96 wells, and reverse-mutated bacterial colonies were assessed by counting the number of wells that changed color from purple to yellow. In addition, using the IPHASE Biosciences kit, the preparation was tested at doses of 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, 0.3125, and 0.1562 mg/plate on Salmonella typhimurium TA100 and TA98 strains under both S9 (-) and S9 (+) conditions. After incubation, the number of bacterial colonies formed was counted and compared with that of the positive control group. Genotoxicity was assessed according to OECD Guideline 474 (Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Test) by evaluating the numbers of polychromatic erythrocytes (PCEs), normochromatic erythrocytes (NCEs), and micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes in the bone marrow of BALB/c mice. Result: In the study using the Muta-Chromoplate™ assay, bacterial colonies were observed at doses ranging from 5.0 to 0.1562 mg/mL of the herbal combination preparation. However, compared with the positive control group (aminoanthracene), the number of bacterial colonies was significantly lower (p<0.05). In the study using the IPHASE Biosciences kit, 30–154 bacterial colonies were observed in Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 strains under S9 (-/+) conditions at doses ranging from 5.0 to 0.156 mg/plate, which was approximately threefold lower than that observed in the positive control groups. In the positive control group treated with cyclophosphamide, the number of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes was increased. Conclusion The herbal combination preparation showed no mutagenic activity in either of the two mutation detection assays using Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 strains under S9 (-/+) conditions. In addition, it showed no genotoxic effect in the micronucleus assay.

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.

Background: Globally, adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) remains a public health priority within the Sustainable Development Goals. In Mongolia, individuals aged 15-24 account for over 40% of all sexually transmitted infections (STIs), representing a significant national challenge. Current health education for adolescents focuses predominantly on biological knowledge while neglecting life skills, consent, and communication. This focus has led to a deepening “knowledge-practice gap,” increasing vulnerability to risky behaviors. Therefore, it is essential to identify the actual SRH needs of youth and evaluate the national curriculum against international Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) standards. Aim: To compare and evaluate the SRH knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of university students and to identify content gaps by comparing the national curriculum with international CSE standards. Materials and Methods: An analytical case-control study was conducted among 585 students (freshmen, n=289; senior students, n=296) using random sampling. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire based on UNESCO CSE standards and the national curriculum. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0, employing X2 and t-tests for significance (p<0.05). Content analysis was executed using a triangulation matrix. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed between the study groups in terms of age (p<0.001), marital status (p<0.001), and living environment (p<0.001), while groups were homogeneous regarding gender (p=0.183) and socio-economic status. Senior students demonstrated significantly higher levels of SRH knowledge, attitudes, and practices across all variables compared to freshmen (p<0.001). However, a profound knowledge-practice gap persists; for instance, while 70% of freshmen were aware of STI transmission routes, regular condom use was reported at only 45%. Content analysis revealed that while the national curriculum covers biological aspects well, key CSE concepts such as “Consent,” “Psychology of Relationships,” and “Digital Safety” are notably absent. Furthermore, a curriculum based on negative attitudes and “prohibitions” contributes to fear among youth regarding seeking medical assistance. Conclusion The significant knowledge-practice gap (p<0.001) among students highlights the urgent need to revise the national curriculum in alignment with international CSE standards. To mitigate risky behaviors, it is recommended to transition from information-based teaching to a competency-based “Integrated Learning Model” supported by school-hospital-family partnerships.

Background: Bone mineral density (BMD) is a key indicator reflecting bone strength and resistance to fracture. It is influenced by multiple factors, including age, sex, genetic background, body composition, nutrition, and physical activity. During young adulthood, peak bone mass is actively formed; therefore, identifying early variations in this period is essential for predicting future skeletal health risks. Accordingly, assessing BMD and evaluating its relationship with physical characteristics among first-year nursing students provides a scientific rationale for this study. Aim: To examine the relationship between bone mineral density and selected physical parameters among students. Materials and Methods: A total of 297 first-year students aged 17-35 years from the School of Nursing, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences were included. Bone mineral density was assessed by measuring the speed of sound through the radius using an ultrasound bone densitometry device. Handgrip strength was measured using an electronic dynamometer. Physical parameters including age, sex, height, and body weight were measured using standardized procedures, and statistical analysis was performed. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of MNUMS on November 21, 2025 (No. 26/1) and March 28, 2026 (No. 26/03-B02), with no ethical violations identified. Results: According to T-scores, 37.1% (n=110) of participants had normal bone status and 62.9% (n=187) showed reduced bone density. Based on Z-scores, 52.5% (n=159) were normal, while 45.6% (n=138) had decreased values. T-score values were 1.87±0.69 (<20 years), 1.44±0.55 (20–30 years), and 1.10±0.31 (>30 years), while Z-score values were −0.73±1.38, −0.43±1.23, and −0.02±1.27, respectively. ANOVA analysis revealed statistically significant differences among age groups (p<0.01). A positive correlation was observed between T-score and age, whereas no significant correlations were found with other physical parameters. Z-score showed a positive correlation with handgrip strength. Conclusions 1. A high prevalence of reduced bone mineral density was observed among the students, which may be associated with incomplete attainment of peak bone mass in adolescents and young adults. 2. A significant difference in bone mineral density was found between age groups (p<0.01), indicating that age is an important factor influencing bone mineral density.

Background: Of the 7,678 plant species growing in Mongolia, more than 1,230 are considered medicinal plants; however, around 900 of these remain unstudied, and only about 200 species are currently used in medical practice. In recent years, the use of natural products in therapy has increased, and research in this field has been rapidly developing. Schizonepeta multifida (L.) Briq., a plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is widely distributed in Mongolia, Siberia, and East Asia, and is traditionally used to treat colds, fever, and inflammatory diseases. Phytochemical studies have shown that its essential oil contains terpenoid compounds such as pulegone and limonene, as well as flavonoids. These compounds are known to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects; however, comprehensive studies on these activities of Schizonepeta multifida growing in Mongolia are limited. Aim: To determine the antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and anti-inflammatory effects of Schizonepeta multifita Briq. essential oil and to evaluate its anti-stress effects in an experimental chronic stress animal model. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted at the Institute of Bio-Medicine, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences. The aerial parts of Schizonepeta multifida were subjected to hydrodistillation using a Clevenger apparatus to obtain essential oil, and the yield was calculated. Antioxidant activity was measured at 517 nm using a spectrophotometer (Agilent BioTek Epoch 2). Cytotoxicity was assessed in BV2 and N2a cell lines using the MTT assay, after which inflammatory markers (IL-6 and TNF-α) were determined in cell cultures using ELISA. For the induction of chronic stress, C57/BL6 mice were divided into healthy control, negative control, and experimental groups. A total of 10 different chronic stress models were randomly applied twice daily for 28 days. Anti-stress effects were evaluated using the forced swim test. Data analysis was performed using Prism 10 software. Results: The yield of essential oil from Schizonepeta multifida was 0.3±0.03%. The antioxidant activity, assessed by the DPPH radical scavenging method, showed an IC₅₀ value of 262.7±2.95 µg/mL, indicating antioxidant potential. Cytotoxicity assays in BV2 and N2a cell lines showed toxic effects starting from a concentration of 200 µg/mL. The essential oil significantly reduced inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α at concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL (p<0.05). In the forced swim test, there was a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) between the disease control group and the experimental group. Conclusion The essential oil of Schizonepeta multifida exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-chronic stress effects.

Background: As of 2024, approximately 39 million people worldwide are living with HIV, and approximately 1.3 million new infections are registered annually. In terms of human resources, there is an insufficient supply of doctors and specialists specializing in infectious diseases, and in some regions the workload per doctor is 1.5–2 times higher than the national average. Aim: To assess the current status of the structure and accessibility of human resources for STD, HIV, and AIDS care and services. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using a cross-sectional design using quantitative and qualitative research methods. The “SARA-Service Availability and Readiness” standard questionnaire developed by WHO was used to assess the availability, type, location, and accessibility of STD, HIV, and AIDS care and services. The results of the study were processed using Microsoft Excel. Results: The current status of human resources providing STD, HIV, and AIDS care and services nationwide. A total of 56 STD, HIV, and AIDS doctors, 37 nurses, 10 junior doctors, 3 counselors, 16 senior laboratory doctors, and 33 laboratory technicians are working. The doctor-nurse ratio is 1:0.66. The average number of doctors and nurses working in the field of STDs, HIV, and AIDS is 0.21 per 10,000 population. The average number of doctors, junior doctors, and nurses providing STDs, HIV, and AIDS care and services per 10,000 population is 0.20. Provinces with a number of doctors, junior doctors, and nurses providing STDs, HIV, and AIDS care and services per 10,000 population is less than 0.10, which are provinces that do not have a qualified senior doctor or no doctor at all, that have a doctor but are not qualified but work alongside other doctors, and that do not have junior doctors or nurses. Six out of 21 provinces, or 29 percent, fall into the category of less than 0.10. The national STD, HIV, and AIDS care and services access index is 54.8. Conclusion When calculating the index of access to STD, HIV, and AIDS care and services based on indicators such as human resource adequacy and availability of clinics, access to care and services is poor.