Background: Numerous international studies have established that the antibacterial activity of honey is attributed to its key components, including hydrogen peroxide, methylglyoxal, peptides, polyphenolic compounds, high sugar content, and acidic pH. Despite the vast consumption of different types of honey in Mongolia, there is a lack of sufficient scientific evidence on their antibacterial properties, which served as the rationale for conducting this study. Aim: A study comparing the antibacterial activity of honey commonly traded in Mongolia. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted using an experimental research design. Eight standard pathogenic bacterial strains were utilized: Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 1706, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ATCC 700699, Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 35984, Salmonella enterica ATCC 13076, and Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC 19606. A total of 14 honey samples were selected for the study, comprising 11 samples sourced from the Uvs, Tuv, Sukhbaatar, Khentii, Dornod, Darkhan, Selenge, and Khuvsgul provinces of Mongolia, and 3 Manuka-type honey samples from Australia. The samples were serially diluted in broth using a 96-well U-bottom microtiter plate. One microliter of each bacterial suspension was added, and the plates were incubated at 37°C for 18–24 hours. Subsequently, the cultures were spread onto Mueller-Hinton agar and incubated under the same conditions. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined by evaluating bacterial growth inhibition and bactericidal activity, respectively. Result: Among the tested samples, the Manuka honey with MGO 570 and the honey collected from Tumentsogt soum in Sukhbaatar province exhibited the most potent antibacterial activity against MRSA, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 12.5% (v/v) and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 25% (v/v). In contrast, the antibacterial activity of Manuka honey with UMF 5 and the honeys sourced from Tuv, Uvs, and Khalkhgol soum in Dornod province demonstrated MIC and MBC values of 25% (v/v) and 50% (v/v), respectively. The Manuka honey with MGO 30, as well as the honeys collected from Selenge, Darkhan, Sukhbaatar, Khentii, and Rashaant and Tarialan soums in Khuvsgul province, showed comparatively weaker activity against MRSA, Salmonella enterica, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Conclusion 1. The antibacterial activity of natural and cultivated floral honeys was assessed by determining their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against eight standard bacterial strains. 2. All seven natural floral honey samples exhibited measurable antibacterial effects against the tested strains, whereas some of the cultivated floral honey samples showed no observable activity against certain bacterial strains.

Background: Dental caries is a preventable disease influenced by individual behavior, dietary habits, lifestyle, and health literacy. According to data from preventive health screenings initiated in Mongolia in 2022, dental caries accounted for 77.7% of 258,008 suspected conditions identified among children aged 0–17 years. Reducing the prevalence and severity of dental caries in children requires strengthening primary health care systems that emphasize the prevention and early detection of oral diseases and the provision of oral health education, rather than focusing solely on the treatment of existing dental caries. Aim: To assess the policy environment and implementation context of oral health care within primary health care in Mongolia and to identify key challenges and priority areas for improvement. Materials and Methods: A policy document review was conducted. The study included legal and policy documents governing primary health care as of 2026, together with relevant statistical data on oral diseases, health workforce, and financing. The collected information was categorized into key domains and synthesized and compared using an analytical matrix. Result: The current policy environment for primary health care in Mongolia does not yet provide all the conditions necessary to deliver equitable and prevention-oriented oral health services to the population. In particular, residents of soums and villages have limited access through their local health facilities to comprehensive services for the prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of oral and maxillofacial conditions. The inclusion of prevention, early detection, and primary oral health care within the “Healthy Teeth” initiative represents a positive policy development; however, mechanisms to ensure effective implementation remain insufficient. Although the Health Insurance Fund covers the costs of selected dental treatments for children and pregnant women, oral health care remains costly for other age groups, creating a considerable financial burden and limiting access to necessary services. Conclusion Reducing the burden of oral and maxillofacial diseases in Mongolia requires a transition from a treatment-oriented system toward primary health care based on prevention, early detection, and oral health education. Oral health care should be integrated into primary health care, with improved access at the soum and village levels and comprehensive strengthening of the health workforce, financing, and implementation mechanisms.

Background: Panzerina lanata (L.) is widely distributed across various ecosystems in the mountain, steppe, and Gobi regions of Mongolia and has traditionally been used in folk medicine to alleviate joint and muscle inflammation, reduce liver heat, lower blood pressure, promote diuresis, and treat edema and tumors. Its similar applications in Mongolian and Chinese traditional medicine suggest considerable therapeutic potential and biological activity. Studies conducted since 2019 have reported that P.lanata (L.) is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant-active constituents; however, studies on the microscopic and histochemical characteristics of the species growing under Mongolian conditions remain limited, providing the rationale for this study. Aim: To characterize the microscopic features of Panzerina lanata (L.), determine the distribution of starch, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds using histochemical methods, and evaluate the total polyphenol and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. Materials and Methods: For microscopic analysis, plant materials were softened by soaking for 24 h in a 1:1:1 water–ethanol–glycerin mixture (Strich–Fleming solution), followed by preparation of manual transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems, roots, and petals. A 10% chloral hydrate solution was used for clearing. Histochemical analyses were performed using potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇), ferric chloride (FeCl₃), Lugol’s solution (I₂/KI), thymol (C₁₀H₁₄O) with concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), methylene blue (C₁₆H₁₈ClN₃S), and Dragendorff’s reagent. The prepared sections were cleared with glycerin and examined under an Olympus light microscope at ×40 and ×100 magnifications, with images documented using a 12-MP camera. Result: Microscopic examination of the roots, stems, and petals revealed that the root stele exhibited a polyarchy arrangement, with clearly differentiated xylem, phloem, and cambial tissues in both transverse and longitudinal sections. Scalariform tracheary elements in the xylem contributed to water and mineral transport and mechanical support. The stem xylem contained both spiral and scalariform tracheary elements. The petals consisted of cells with double walls and single nuclei, while the floral seed tissue was composed of meristematic tissue associated with continuous cell division, growth, and tissue differentiation. Histochemical analysis of transverse and longitudinal sections of the stems and roots, as well as petal sections, revealed the presence of essential oils, polyphenolic compounds (tannins and flavonoids), and starch. Conclusion Microscopic, histochemical, and phytochemical analyses of Panzerina lanata (L.) revealed the presence of biologically active compounds, indicating its potential for use in the quality evaluation of medicinal plant raw materials.

Background: Numerous experimental and clinical studies have investigated the therapeutic potential of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn., mainly attributing its biological activities to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and hepatoprotective effects. In particular, silymarin has been reported to exert hepatoprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress, protecting cell membranes from certain toxic insults, and modulating protein synthesis. Therefore, cultivation of S. marianum and utilization of its seeds for industrial and research purposes are important for establishing a sustainable source of pharmacologically valuable bioactive compounds and increasing the availability of high-quality medicinal plant material. Aim: To evaluate the feasibility of cultivating S. marianum from seeds and to determine seed germination, seedling growth and development, survival after transplantation to open-field conditions, phenological stages, and seed yield characteristics. Materials and Methods: Seeds of S. marianum were germinated under indoor conditions, and normally developed seedlings were subsequently raised in a greenhouse and transplanted to a cultivation site near Tamgan Öndör, Erdene sum, Töv Province, Mongolia. Germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT), seedling growth based on morphometric parameters, and survival rate after transplantation were evaluated. At harvest, the number and diameter of capitula, seed weight per plant, 1000-seed weight, and seed yield per unit area were determined. Data were expressed as mean±SD, and statistical significance was evaluated at p < 0.05. Result: Of the 1,000 seeds sown, 852 germinated, resulting in a germination percentage of 85.2% and a mean germination time of 11 days. Under greenhouse conditions, plant height increased from 1.0 to 3.0 cm, while rosette diameter increased from 1.2 to 7.0 cm. Of the 452 seedlings transplanted to the open field, 353 survived, corresponding to a survival rate of 78.1%. The first flowering was observed on June 12, full flowering on July 9, and full seed maturation on August 30, with 175 days from sowing to seed maturity. On average, each plant produced 18 branches and 20 capitula, with a capitulum diameter of 4.4 cm, seed weight per plant of 15.5 g, 1000-seed weight of 11.5 g, and seed yield of 195.325 kg/ha. Conclusion S. marianum was able to germinate, establish, complete its major growth, flowering, and seed maturation stages, and produce seeds under the cultivation conditions of the Tamgan Öndör area, Erdene sum, Töv Province. These findings indicate that S. marianum can potentially be cultivated in this specific area as a source of medicinal plant material.

Background: One of the major mechanisms underlying myocardial injury during ischemia and hypoxia is oxidative stress. Under hypoxic conditions, excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) disrupts the cellular antioxidant defense system, enhances lipid peroxidation, and ultimately leads to apoptosis and cellular damage. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is a key intracellular antioxidant enzyme that neutralizes oxidative stress, whereas malondialdehyde (MDA), an end product of lipid peroxidation, reflects the extent of membrane damage. Therefore, investigating antioxidant compounds in hypoxia-induced cardiomyocyte injury is of significant importance. Pinocembrin, a bioactive compound derived from Dalbergia odorifera T.Chen, exhibits multiple pharmacological activities, including antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects. Aim: To evaluate the effects of pinocembrin on oxidative stress in hypoxia-induced H9C2 cardiomyocytes. Materials and Methods: H9C2 cardiomyocytes were divided into five groups: a control group, a model group, and three pinocembrin-treated groups (low, medium, and high doses). Except for the control group, cells were cultured under hypoxic conditions (5% CO2, 1% O2, 37 °C) in glucose- and serum-free DMEM to establish a hypoxia-induced injury model. Cells were then treated with pinocembrin for 4 hours. Oxidative stress levels were assessed by measuring ROS accumulation, SOD activity, and MDA content. Result: Compared with the control group, the model group showed a significant increase in ROS production, a decrease in SOD activity, and a marked elevation in MDA levels, indicating severe oxidative stress under hypoxic conditions. In contrast, the pinocembrin-treated groups exhibited attenuation of hypoxia-induced oxidative stress. Specifically, ROS accumulation decreased, SOD activity was restored, and MDA levels were significantly reduced. These findings suggest that pinocembrin exerts protective effects by enhancing the cellular antioxidant defense system and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Conclusion Pinocembrin reduces oxidative stress and protects against cellular injury in hypoxia-induced H9C2 cardiomyocytes. These results indicate that pinocembrin may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for ischemiaand hypoxia-related cardiac disorders and provide a valuable foundation for further research.

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: Erysipelas is an acute, recurrent infectious disease caused by Group A β-hemolytic streptococcus. Recurrence occurs in 12–29% of patients, and complications in approximately 31%. International studies indicate that age, sex, and skin conditions are key factors influencing complications and recurrence. In Mongolia, the incidence of erysipelas has not steadily declined, and there is a lack of studies investigating clinical and laboratory predictors of complications and recurrence. Aim:: This study aimed to investigate clinical and laboratory predictors of complications and recurrence among erysipelas cases registered in Mongolia. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 165 patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of erysipelas at the National Center for Communicable Diseases between 2020 and 2024 were randomly selected. Data were collected based on the “Clinical Guidelines for Erysipelas.” Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-26, and ROC curve analysis along with regression models were used to determine risk and predictive factors. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 50.4±14.2 years; 76.5% were female, and 32.1% were herders. Recurrence was observed in 55.1% of patients (42.8% repeated episodes, 57.2% recurrent cases), and complications occurred in 10.3%. Among patients with complications, lesions were most commonly located on the face (41.2%) and predominantly presented as erythematous-bullous forms (70.6%). The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was 7.1 (AUC: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.79–0.91, p=0.001), and the systemic inflammatory response index was 3.9 (AUC: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.88–0.98, p=0.001), indicating high levels. Multivariable regression analysis showed that risk factors for complications included age >45 years (aOR=1.8, 95% CI: 1.2–2.7, p=0.004), female sex (aOR=2.8, 95% CI: 1.7–4.6, p=0.001), and occupation (herder) (aOR=2.6, 95% CI: 1.3–5.4, p=0.001). Chronic tonsillitis was significantly associated with recurrence (OR=3.8, 95% CI: 2.5–5.7, p=0.001). Cox regression analysis demonstrated that each additional year of age increased the risk of complications by 2% (HR=1.02, 95% CI: 1.01–1.03, p=0.003), while the presence of chronic tonsillitis increased the risk of recurrence by 7.69 times (HR=7.69, 95% CI: 5.15–11.49, p=0.001). Conclusion Cellular ratio indicators in erysipelas are useful for assessing inflammatory activity and disease progression. Age, sex, occupation, and the presence of chronic tonsillitis significantly influence the risk of complications and recurrence in erysipelas.

Background: Mongolia, as a country with a high burden of liver disease caused by viral infections, has prioritized reducing the spread of viral hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in line with the WHO strategy for 2022–2030. Orders A/133 (2023) and A/18 (2024) issued by the Ministry of Health mandate that healthcare providers initiate screening of hospitalized patients for hepatitis B and C viruses, syphilis, and HIV infection. Among infectious diseases registered in Mongolia, STIs rank among the leading causes, with more than 40% of reported cases being newly diagnosed syphilis. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and syphilis are transmitted via the parenteral route, can lead to chronic disease, and co-infection represents a serious condition that accelerates liver damage and negatively affects treatment outcomes. Syphilis infection places additional stress on liver function and exacerbates HCV-related inflammation. Aim: This study aimed to investigate how syphilis co-infection affects the biochemical and clinical course of acute hepatitis C virus infection. Materials and Methods: A retrospective, hospital-based cross-sectional study design was used. A total of 74 patients diagnosed with acute hepatitis C virus infection and treated at the National Center for Communicable Diseases between 2025 and 2026 were randomly selected. Data were collected from medical records. Patients were divided into two groups based on syphilis serology results: HCV mono-infection and HCV with syphilis co-infection. Differences between variables in the two groups were analyzed using the T-test, with statistical analysis performed using SPSS version 26. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the study participants, 17 (23%) had syphilis co-infection. There were no statistically significant differences in age and sex between the groups (p=0.982). In the co-infected group, 23.5% had high RPR titers (indicative of active/new infection). Clinically, general signs of infection and intoxication (35.3%), fatigue (100%), dyspeptic syndrome (100%), and intoxication syndrome (100%) were predominant. Biochemical analysis showed significantly higher levels in the co-infected group compared to the mono-infected group: total bilirubin (192.4 vs 110.5 μmol/L, p<0.01), alkaline phosphatase (245.8 vs 132.1 U/L, p=0.004), and ALT (1240.5 vs 850.2 U/L, p=0.03). Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that the mean time for ALT normalization was longer in the co-infected group (26.4 days) compared to the mono-infected group (20.7 days) (p=0.006), indicating prolonged recovery. Conclusion Syphilis co-infection worsens the clinical course of acute hepatitis C, deepens jaundice and cholestatic syndrome, and prolongs the normalization of biochemical parameters.

Background: Senear-Usher Syndrome, also known as pemphigus erythematosus, is a rare autoimmune blistering skin disease characterized by overlapping clinical, histopathological, and immunological features of both lupus erythematosus and pemphigus foliaceus. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 46-year-old male diagnosed with Senear-Usher Syndrome, who presented to the outpatient clinic of the National Dermatology Center of Mongolia and received inpatient treatment. Diagnosis: The patient exhibited diffuse, thick, pale gray scales and yellowish crusts on the scalp. Multiple brown hyperpigmented macules of various shapes and sizes, vivid erythema, and a few erosions were observed on the nose, cheeks, trunk, and upper and lower extremities. A few pea-sized vesicles containing clear fluid were scattered on the back. Nikolsky's sign was weakly positive, and Besnier-Meshchersky's sign was positive. Histopathology: Histopathological analysis of skin biopsies revealed hyperkeratosis, parakeratosis, and acanthosis in the epidermis. Subcorneal cleft formation with neutrophils within the cleft was noted, along with perivascular infiltration of neutrophils and lymphohistiocytes in the superficial dermis. Treatment: The patient received treatment with hydroxychloroquine, systemic and topical corticosteroids, and symptomatic therapy. Outcome: Following treatment, the patient's general condition improved significantly. The erosions re-epithelialized, and the vesicles resolved, leaving behind brown hyperpigmented macules. The patient is currently under regular follow-up by a dermatologist and a family physician. Conclusion Senear-Usher Syndrome is a rare disease with a high potential for misdiagnosis. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis relies on a comprehensive evaluation of clinical features, histopathological examination, and direct and indirect immunofluorescence studies.

Background: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) accounts for approximately 20% of all malignant skin tumors and is the second most common skin cancer worldwide. Although the prognosis is generally favorable when diagnosed at an early stage, large tumors with invasion into surrounding tissues and metastasis to regional lymph nodes tend to exhibit more aggressive behavior. In particular, reconstruction of large tissue defects following wide excision of skin tumors remains a significant clinical challenge. Case presentation: We present a rare case of cSCC in a 69-year-old male patient, located on the left hip. The lesion measured 13x9 cm, with well-demarcated borders from the surrounding normal skin, prominently elevated above the skin surface, and characterized by a bluish-brown color. The central superior portion of the lesion was depressed and ulcerated with infiltrative features. Histopathological examination confirmed a well-differentiated, keratinizing invasive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Computed tomography revealed a soft tissue density mass at the skin surface of the left lower abdomen, along with enlargement of the left inguinal lymph nodes. Treatment: The patient underwent wide local excision of the tumor along with regional lymph node dissection (lymphadenectomy). The resulting large tissue defect was reconstructed using an anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap. During surgery, indocyanine green (ICG) angiography was performed to assess flap perfusion, and handheld Doppler was used to evaluate vascular flow. Results: The postoperative course was uneventful. The flap survived successfully with adequate perfusion. Histopathological examination confirmed negative surgical margins, and no metastasis was identified in the lymph nodes. The patient remains in stable condition without any complaints or symptoms and is under regular follow-up by an oncologist. Conclusion This case demonstrates that combining wide excision with free flap reconstruction is an effective approach for managing large cSCC. In addition, the use of indocyanine green (ICG) angiography for intraoperative assessment of vascular perfusion enhances flap viability and contributes to improved surgical outcomes.