1.Investigation of Histochemical Characteristics and Selected Quality Parameters of Asian Yarrow (Achillea asiatica Serg.)
Erdenechimeg J ; Nurdana B ; Densmaa L ; Khongorzul Ch ; Tuyatsetseg B ; Jargal Ts ; Ehkhjin G ; Uranbaigalin S ; Amarjargal Ts
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;91(1):6-11
Background:
Plants of the genus Achillea are widely used in both traditional and modern medicine and are known to
be rich in biologically active secondary metabolites. Numerous phytochemical and histochemical studies have been con
ducted on Achillea millefolium L.; however, Achillea asiatica Serg., which is widely distributed in Mongolia, remains
comparatively underexplored. Therefore, investigating the distribution of biologically active compounds, the content of
polyphenolic compounds, and the optimal extraction conditions of this species is of significant scientific and practical
importance.
Aim:
The aim of this study was to identify biologically active compounds in Achillea asiatica Serg. using histochemical
methods, to determine the content of polyphenolic compounds and optimal extraction conditions, and to evaluate the total
and internal absorption coefficients of the plant raw material.
Materials and Methods:
The aerial parts of Achillea asiatica Serg. were collected in August 2025 from Erdene soum,
Tuv province, Mongolia. Histochemical analysis was performed on transverse stem sections and flower petals using
potassium dichromate, ferric chloride (III), methylene blue, Lugol’s iodine, and Dragendorff’s reagent, followed by ob
servation under a light microscope. The total polyphenolic content was determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu method and
expressed as gallic acid equivalents. Extraction experiments were conducted using powdered plant material sieved to par
ticle sizes of 1, 2, and 3 mm and extracted with 20–80% ethanol. In addition, the total and internal absorption coefficients
of the plant material were determined according to standard procedures.
Results:
Histochemical analysis revealed the presence of essential oils, polyphenolic compounds (tannins and flavo
noids), and starch, while alkaloids were not detected. Polyphenolic compounds were observed in both stems and flow
ers, with more pronounced accumulation in the vascular tissues. The highest total polyphenolic content (0.421%) was
obtained from the 1 mm particle-size fraction extracted with 70–80% ethanol. Using 60% ethanol, the total absorption
coefficient of the plant material was determined to be 5.74, and the internal absorption coefficient was 1.885.
Conclution
Achillea asiatica Serg. is rich in polyphenolic compounds, and their anatomical distribution is closely as
sociated with the plant’s protective and biological functions. The use of 1 mm particle-size material and 70–80% ethanol
was identified as the most suitable condition for extracting polyphenolic compounds. These findings provide a scientific
basis for the standardization of Achillea asiatica Serg. as a medicinal and phytopharmaceutical raw material and support
its further pharmacognostic and phytochemical investigation.
2.Ethnobotanical study of plant-derived medicinal raw materials used for skin diseases
Nurdana B ; Densmaa L ; Khongorzul Ch ; Tuyaatsetseg B ; Erdenechimeg J ; Ariunzayaa D ; Uranbaigal S ; Daariimaa Kh ; Amarjargal Ts
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;96(6):26-31
Background:
Skin diseases are highly prevalent worldwide. Although plant-derived medicinal materials continue to be used among Mongolians for the traditional and household management of dermatological conditions, studies that systematically quantify their frequency of use, informant consensus, and cultural significance remain limited.
Aim:
To determine the traditional knowledge, patterns of use, and cultural significance of plant-derived medicinal materials used for dermatological conditions among residents of Ulaanbaatar using quantitative ethnobotanical indices.
Materials and Methods:
Information was collected on the diversity of plant species used for dermatological conditions, modes and frequency of use, perceived effectiveness, adverse effects, and methods of preparation and processing. The collected data were evaluated using quantitative ethnobotanical indices, including the Use Value (UV), Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Fidelity Level (FL), Relative Popularity Level (RPL), Rank Order Priority (ROP), Cultural Importance Index (CII), Jaccard Index (JI), and Shannon–Wiener Diversity Index (SDI). Statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel 2016. The study was conducted with the approval of the Research Ethics Review Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (Approval Protocol No. 25-06/03-03 and Ethical Opinion Protocol No. 26/03-B02).
Result:
A total of 73 plant species belonging to 36 families were documented, with species from the Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Apiaceae, and Liliaceae families being predominant. Regarding modes of use, 29.6% of the remedies were prepared as infusions or decoctions and applied as washes or topical applications, 18.9% involved the direct application of plant juice, and 18.1% were applied as mashed plant material or poultices. Aloe barbadensis showed the highest ethnobotanical importance, with UV= 0.19, RFC=0.128, CII=0.19, RPL=1.00, and ROP=100. Nugaraa altan tovch, Gobi thyme, yashilduu sea buckthorn, and greater plantain were also highly ranked. The Informant Consensus Factor was highest for thermal burns (ICF=0.82), followed by open wounds (ICF=0.77) and pustular acne (ICF=0.76). Eighteen species overlapped with the 126 medicinal materials recorded in traditional medicinal prescriptions, yielding a Jaccard Index of JI=10%. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index was H′=3.4184, with an evenness value of E=0.7967. Among the informants, 40.8% reported a reduction in symptoms, while 61.9% reported no adverse effects associated with the use of plant-derived medicinal materials.
Conclusion
1. Among residents of Ulaanbaatar, information was documented on the use of 73 plant species belonging to 36 families for skin diseases. Knowledge of these plants was transmitted mainly within families, and topical methods of use, including washing with herbal infusions, rinsing, and direct application of expressed plant juice, were predominant.
2. According to the quantitative ethnobotanical indices, Aloe vera showed the highest values for use, citation frequency, and cultural importance. Matricaria chamomilla L., Thymus gobicus Tschern., Hippophae rhamnoides L., and Plantago major L. also ranked highly. The highest Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) values were observed for thermal burns, open skin wounds, and acne vulgaris.
3.Splenic Predominant Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: A Rare Case Report
Enkhsaikhan S ; Erdenetuya J ; Demberelmaa B ; Erdenechimeg T ; Uugantuya P ; Tsendsuren B ; Batdelger B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):325-328
Background:
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a common subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma of B-lymphocyte origin, characterized by an aggressive clinical course. Clinically, it most often presents with lymphadenopathy and “B symptoms,” including fever, night sweats, and weight loss. However, in some cases, the disease predominantly involves extranodal organs, such as the spleen, and may present with nonspecific manifestations, thereby posing a diagnostic challenge.
Case presentation:
A 36-year-old male patient presented with high-grade fever of unknown origin, dyspnea, generalized weakness, sweating, and a 7–8 kg weight loss over one month. Clinical evaluation and laboratory investigations revealed massive splenomegaly measuring 15 × 20 × 20 cm, progressive thrombocytopenia, anemia, and elevated C-reactive protein and lactate dehydrogenase levels. Diagnostic workup for infection, tuberculosis, viral infection, and autoimmune disease did not reveal findings sufficient to establish an alternative diagnosis. Because focal splenic lesions and suspected splenic infarction were identified, splenectomy was performed. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examination of the splenic tissue demonstrated CD20+, CD79a+, BCL2+, CD3−, CD8−, CD30−, and ALK− expression, confirming the final diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Although DLBCL itself is a common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, this case is clinically rare and diagnostically challenging because it presented with predominant splenic involvement, massive splenomegaly measuring 15×20×20 cm, treatment-resistant fever, progressive thrombocytopenia, and imaging findings mimicking splenic infarction.
Conclusion
In patients presenting with fever of unknown origin that is resistant to treatment, massive splenomegaly, thrombocytopenia, elevated LDH, and increased inflammatory markers, lymphoproliferative disorders should be considered early in the differential diagnosis in addition to infectious causes. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examination play a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis.
4.Microstructural and Histochemical Study of the Medicinal Plant Ephedra przewalskii Stapf.
Amarjargal Ts ; Maralgua A ; Ariunaa D ; Tuyatsetseg B ; Khongorzul Ch ; Erdenechimeg J ; Uranbaigal S ; Ariunzaya D ; Enkhjin G ; Daariimaa Kh
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;97(7):134-139
Background:
Ephedra przewalskii Stapf. is a perennial shrubby plant of the family Ephedraceae, naturally distributed in the dry and cold desert regions of Mongolia. In traditional medicine, the stems and roots of this plant have been used as decoctions for the treatment of gastrointestinal spasms, abdominal distension, urinary retention, and general fatigue. Members of the Ephedraceae family are known to contain sympathomimetic alkaloids such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, which exert strong physiological effects on the central nervous system, respiratory tract, and cardiovascular system. However, detailed information on the tissue- and cell-level localization of biologically active compounds and the microstructural characteristics of E. przewalskii remains limited.
Aim:
This study aimed to investigate the microanatomical structure and histochemical characteristics of the stem and root of Ephedra przewalskii Stapf., with particular emphasis on the localization of biologically active compounds.
Materials and Methods:
Plant samples were collected in July from Chandmani soum, Govi-Altai province, Mongolia. The collected material was air-dried in the shade and softened using Ostrich and Fleming solution prior to sectioning. Transverse sections of the stem and root were prepared using a hand microtome and examined under an Olympus light microscope. Histochemical analyses were performed using standard reagents to detect alkaloids, phenolic compounds, tannins, essential oils, polysaccharides, and starch.
Results:
The stem epidermis consisted of thin-walled, quadrangular cells with a surface covered by spherical protuberances. The stomatal apparatus exhibited a tetracytic structure, and photosynthetic activity was primarily localized in the stem chlorenchyma. The vascular bundles were collateral, with phloem located externally and xylem internally. Idioblasts containing reddish-brown crystalline inclusions were observed in the central pith of the stem. The root showed a polyarch central cylinder, with uniformly distributed, rounded parenchymal cells, and idioblasts similar to those observed in the stem. Histochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, and tannins in the stem, predominantly localized in parenchymal and chlorenchymal tissues. In the root, polysaccharides, tannins, and starch were detected, whereas alkaloid accumulation was more prominent in the stem parenchyma.
Conclusion
The microscopic examination of Ephedra przewalskii Stapf. revealed the characteristic structures of the stem epidermis, stomata, chlorenchyma, vascular tissues, and crystal-containing idioblasts, as well as a polyarch central cylinder in the root. Histochemical reactions detected flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, starch, and polysaccharides in the stem, whereas tannins, starch, and polysaccharides were identified in the root. These findings provide a comprehensive characterization of the anatomical and chemical features of the different plant organs.
5.Molecular docking analysis of interactions between flavonoids and the Neh1 Domain of NRF2
Amarjargal Ts ; Maralgua A ; Ariunaa D ; Tuyatsetseg B ; Khongorzul Ch ; Erdenechimeg J ; Uranbaigal S ; Ariunzaya D ; Enkhjin G ; Daariimaa Kh
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;97(7):175-179
Background:
Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is a transcription factor that plays a crucial role in regulating cellular responses to oxidative stress and xenobiotic exposure. However, excessive NRF2 activation can enhance cancer cell survival and contribute to chemoresistance. Therefore, increasing attention has been directed toward naturally occurring flavonoids that may modulate NRF2 activity. Molecular docking provides a computational approach for predicting potential interactions between flavonoids and NRF2 and may help identify candidate compounds for further investigation in cancer therapy.
Objective:
To evaluate the potential interactions of five naturally occurring flavonoids—daidzin, rutin, luteolin, apigenin, and quercetin—with the Neh1 domain of NRF2 using molecular docking and to identify promising candidates for further investigation based on docking scores and ligand efficiency.
Materials and Methods:
The potential interactions of five natural flavonoids, namely daidzin, rutin, luteolin, apigenin, and quercetin, with the target region of NRF2 were investigated using molecular docking. Three-dimensional structures of the flavonoids were retrieved from the PubChem database, while the NRF2 protein structure was obtained from the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Molecular docking calculations were performed using the CB-Dock2 web platform, which incorporates the AutoDock Vina algorithm.
Results:
The docking scores of the selected flavonoids ranged from −64.9 to −77.2. Daidzin exhibited the most favorable docking score (−77.2), followed by apigenin (−72.0) and luteolin (−71.4), whereas rutin showed the least favorable score (−64.9). The calculated RMSD values ranged from 14.766 to 15.344 Å, with relatively small differences among the ligands. Daidzin and apigenin exhibited comparatively lower RMSD values. The reported pose-clustering analysis indicated that all ligands occupied similar binding regions. In terms of ligand efficiency, apigenin (−2.40), luteolin (−2.30), and quercetin (−2.20) showed comparatively favorable values. Although daidzin had the most favorable docking score, its ligand efficiency relative to molecular size was comparatively lower.
Conclusion
The results suggest that daidzin and apigenin may be candidate compounds for further investigation of potential interactions with the Neh1 domain of NRF2. However, these findings are based solely on computational analysis. Further molecular dynamics simulations and experimental studies are required to validate the predicted interactions and determine their actual effects on NRF2 activity.
6.Association between lower back pain and some inflammatory biomarkers among heavy machinery operators in open-pit mining
Nansalmaa M ; Enkhdulguun A ; Miyegombo J ; Erdenechamba N ; Erdenechimeg E ; Munkhtsetseg J
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):165-170
Background:
Musculoskeletal disorders account for 23.1-47.1% of occupational diseases in several countries. Studies
have shown that operators of heavy machinery, including tractors and dump trucks, are twice as likely to experience lower back pain compared to workers not exposed to whole-body vibration. Furthermore, research has indicated that acute
exposure to vibration can cause vasoconstriction and vascular inflammation. However, limited research has explored the
relationship between lower back pain and specific biomarkers, highlighting the need for this study.
Aim:
This study aimed to compare lower back pain prevalence and muscle inflammation biomarkers among heavy machinery operators.
Materials and Methods:
A purposive sampling method was used to recruit 15 male participants aged 25-35 years who
had worked as heavy machinery drivers for no more than three years. Inclusion criteria were: no alcohol consumption
within 24 hours prior to sampling, body mass index (BMI) between 18.5-28.9 kg/m², no prior diagnosis of musculoskeletal disorders, and absence of infectious or non-infectious diseases during the study period. Blood samples were analyzed
for Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
(ELISA).
Results:
The mean BMI of participants was 25.89±3.23 kg/m². Over half (53.3%, n=8) exceeded the exposure limit
for whole-body vibration. Low back pain was reported by 13 participants (86.7%) over the past six months and by 12
participants (80%) over the past seven days. TNF-α levels did not differ significantly between groups based on low back
pain status or vibration exposure. However, IL-6 levels showed a significant increase 24 hours after whole-body vibration
exposure (p=0.027).
Conclusion
Lower back pain was highly prevalent among participants exposed to whole-body vibration. Furthermore,
IL-6 levels were elevated among participants reporting lower back pain, regardless of vibration exposure levels.
7.Acute and chronic toxicity effects of traditional medicine Shimshin-6
Nomin-Erdene J ; Dejidmaa B ; Erdenechimeg Ch ; Munkhtsetseg D ; Chimedragchaa Ch
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):143-148
Background:
In traditional medicine, the Shimshin-6 formulation, which consists of Rheum undulatum L., Hippophae
rhamnoides L., Zingiber officinalie Roscoe, Saussurea Lappa C.B.Clark, Sal ammoniacum, Tronae veneni, is recommended
for women experiencing menstrual retention disorders. In recent years, Shimshin-6 has been widely used to
promote postpartum uterine involution for women and our study aimed to evaluate and determine the acute and chronic
toxicity effects of Shimshin-6.
Aim:
To evaluate and substantiate the acute and chronic toxicity effects of Shimshin-6.
Materials and Methods:
The acute toxicity of Shimshin-6 was evaluated using the rapid method described by V.B. Prozorovsky
(1978) by administering intraperitoneal injections of the medicinal extract in white mice to determine the lethal
dose. The active dose was determined following the methodology of I.P. Zapadnyuk (1983). Chronic toxicity was evaluated
in Wistar rats according to the OECD 407 (2008) guidelines. The test animals were administered Shimshin-6 in tablet
form (90 mg/kg and 180 mg/kg) and decoction form (tang) (162 mg/kg) daily for 60 days. At the end of the experiment,
biochemical and complete blood analyses were conducted, along with histopathological examination of major organs.
The study was conducted with ethical approval granted by the Ethics Committee of the Mongolian National University of
Medical Sciences (MNUMS) on October 25, 2024.
Results:
The LD50 for Shimshin-6 tablets was 4.47 (3.39–5.1) g/kg, indicating low acute toxicity based on the K.K.
Sidorov classification. The LD50 for the decoction form was 8.1 (7.1–9.4) g/kg, suggesting it is non-toxic. Regarding
chronic toxicity, platelet count was significantly reduced compared to the healthy control group: Shimshin-6 tablet group:
46% reduction at 90 mg/kg and 29.7% reduction at 180 mg/kg. Shimshin-6 decoction group: 60.5% reduction at 162 mg/
kg. Additionally, hemoglobin levels in the decoction group (162 mg/kg) decreased by 15.7% (p<0.05). Biochemical analysis
showed a 36.3% reduction in total cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in the tablet group (180 mg/kg) and decoction group
(162 mg/kg) compared to the control (p<0.05).
Conclusion
Shimshin-6 tablets showed low acute toxicity in experimental mice. However, long-term administration may
lead to a reduction in platelet count.
8.Effects of Shimshin-6 on postpartum uterine involution in rats
Nomin-Erdene J ; ; Dejidmaa B ; Erdenechimeg Ch ; Munkhtsetseg D ; Chimedragchaa Ch
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;89(5):95-99
Background:
The Shimshin-6 formulation, composed of Rheum undulatum L., Hippophae rhamnoides L., Zingiber
officinale Roscoe, Saussurea lappa C.B. Clarke, Sal ammoniacum, and Tronae veneni, has traditionally been used in the
management of gynecological disorders such as amenorrhea, abnormal blood clot formation, and pelvic pain. It has also
been widely applied in postpartum care to promote uterine contractility and to prevent complications, including hemorrhage
and inflammation. However, its therapeutic potential in postpartum uterine involution has not been scientifically
validated.
Aim:
To investigate the effects of the Shimshin-6 herbal formulation on postpartum uterine involution in rats
Materials and Methods:
This experimental study was conducted at the Research Center of the Institute of Traditional
Medicine and Technology, following the methodology described by Zheng ZH et al. (2019). Postpartum rats were randomly
assigned to four groups and received daily treatments for five consecutive days with either Shimshin-6 tablets at
doses of 180 mg/kg and 90 mg/kg, Shimshin-6 decoction at 163 mg/kg, or physiological saline as a control. Serum concentrations
of estrogen, progesterone, TNF-α, TGF-β1, and TGF-β3 were measured using commercially available ELISA
kits (Shanghai MLBIO Biotechnology Co. Ltd, China). Following ethical euthanasia, uterine tissues were collected for
histological examination, which included evaluation of uterine weight, endometrial thickness, myometrial structure, and
glandular morphology.
Results:
Shimshin-6 treatment significantly reduced the uterine index and serum estrogen levels compared with the
control group, while no significant difference was observed in progesterone concentration. The treatment also decreased
tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels and modulated growth factors in postpartum rats. Histological analysis further revealed
that Shimshin-6 promoted uterine recovery, despite the presence of inflammatory cell infiltration and hemorrhagic
changes in the uterine wall.
Conclusion
Shimshin-6 preparation exerts a promotive effect on postpartum uterine involution in rats.
9.Planned endoscopic examination of the abdomen for pancreatic necrosis and advanced peritonitis
Lochin Ts ; Baasanjav N ; Byambakhuu B ; Erdenechimeg J
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2021;196(2):32-36
Introduction:
We classify peritonitis as end-stage if it lasts for more than 72 hours or more than three days. At this
point, the pleural effusion of the posterior abdominal wall, the pleural layer of the gastrointestinal
tract, and the dimples of the esophagus are all scattered with pus. During the first operation, it is very
difficult to completely cleanse these abscesses. After the operation, pus will collect in the abdomen
and abscesses will form, which will require another operation. If this postoperative complication is
not diagnosed in time and operated again (relaparotomy), many other complications can occur and
the risk of death is high. 48-hour relaparotomy mortality is higher than early surgery (21.8% -76.8%).
Necrotic pancreatitis is chronic peritonitis (an abscess of the lower extremities) in which only non-pancreatic adipose tissue, sebum glands, pericardial effusions, pericardial effusions, and kidney
adipose tissue become necrotic.
Purpose:
Endoscopic surveillance for chronic pleurisy with pancreatic necrosis
Objectives:
1. Endoscopic monitoring of the postoperative course of pancreatic necrosis.
2. Calculate the results of washing and cleaning using binoculars.
Method:
Patients with advanced peritoneal inflammation and necrotizing pancreatitis should be selected for
reoperation. After removing the dead pancreatic tissue (necrosectomy), all layers of the abdomen are
temporarily closed. A 6 mm short tube with surgical rubber is cut into the small pancreas, inserted 2
cm deep into the standard abdomen and sutured to the skin. Or use a silicone tube 4 - 5 cm long.
Result:
The study was carried out on 56 patients in 2016-2020. The mean age was 50 (89%) for men, 6 (11%)
for women, and 47.5 ± 8.6.
Conclusion
1. Endoscopic follow-up showed 19 (76%) persistent postoperative peritonitis and re-clearance,
and 6 (24%) patients were not diagnosed with persistent peritonitis.
2. 25 (50%) cases of persistent peritonitis after surgery were washed 1-3 times. This method has
proven to be a safe and easy procedure and can be used in any urban or rural hospital.
10.Relationship between Drinking Water Fluoride Level and Dental Caries among Ulaanbaatar districts
Oyunkhishig Kh ; Khulan U ; Erdenechimeg N ; Bayarchimeg B ; Soyolmaa M ; Urjinlham J
Innovation 2016;2(1):32-34
The present study was conducted to assess relationship between drinking water fluoride levels and dental caries among 12 years old school children of 2 districts of Ulaanbaatar city, Mongolia.
A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 533 school children aged 12 years, selected from 6 schools of 2 districts of Ulaanbaatar city. 533 children were divided into 2 groups according to the fluoride concentration of the waters. The all children were examined oral examination, dental caries was assessed by the DMF-T index.
The result of the present study revealed that the caries prevalence in the study population was about 68,9%, and mean DMF-T was 3.05. Water fluoride concentration was highest in Khan-Uul district with 0.622ppm.
There was highest prevalence of caries in children who consume water from filtration system in both districts.
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