1.Academic Burnout and Its Influencing Factors among Nursing Students
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;92(2):87-91
Background:
Academic burnout negatively affects academic performance. Excessive academic workload may lead students to disengagement from learning, reduced motivation, mental fatigue, and chronic stress.
Aim:
To examine academic burnout and its influencing factors among nursing students.
Materials and Methods:
This cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate nursing students’ years 1–4 at the School of Nursing, MNUMS. From a total population of 671 students, 250 were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected between December 2024 and February 2025 using the Maslach Burnout Inventory Scale (MBI).
Result:
Participants ranged in age from 17 to 52 years; 242 (96.8%) were aged 22 years or younger, with a mean age of 20.01 years. The overall academic burnout score was 74, indicating a moderate level of burnout. Age, marital status, and employment status were not significantly associated with overall burnout. However, personal burnout (r=.95, p<.000), study-related burnout and peer-related burnout (r = .98, p<.000), and teacher-related burnout (r=.94, p<.000) showed that strong positive correlations and were statistically significant.
Conclusion
Personal factors, study-related factors, peer-related factors, and teacher-related factors contributing to burnout were each at a moderate level.
2.Determination of serum IL-4 and IFN-γ levels in allergic model-induced C57BL/6 mice using in-house ELISA
Dulguunuu M ; Nyam-Ochir G ; Oyun-Erdene Ch ; Ariunzaya B ; Tsogtsaikhan S ; Enkhtushig G ; Khuselt-Od T ; Enkhtuya S ; Sarantuya L ; Suvd O ; Nyamdorj D ; Batbaatar G ; Gansukh Ch ; Enkhsaikhan L ; Enkh-Amar B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;92(2):134-138
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.
3.Distribution of biotinidase enzyme activity and associated factors in Mongolian newborns
Oyun-Erdene B ; Amgalan B ; Mandukhai G ; Erdenetuya G
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;96(6):60-65
Background:
Biotinidase deficiency is an autosomal recessive disorder of biotin metabolism that can be effectively managed when detected early through newborn screening. Biotinidase activity is influenced by neonatal and preanalytical factors, which may affect the interpretation of screening results. Following the introduction of biotinidase deficiency screening in Mongolia in 2025–2026, population-specific data are needed to support accurate screening interpretation.
Aim:
To determine the distribution and percentile values of biotinidase activity in Mongolian newborns and evaluate associated neonatal and preanalytical factors.
Materials and Methods:
This analytical cross-sectional study included 6,764 newborns from 12 healthcare facilities in Mongolia between August 2025 and May 2026. After excluding initial screen-positive samples and those with transport times exceeding 30 days, 6,258 newborns were included in the primary analysis. Biotinidase activity was measured in dried blood spots using the Neonatal Biotinidase 3018-0010 kit and VICTOR2D analyzer. Percentile curves by gestational age and birth weight were smoothed using LOWESS. Group differences and associations were assessed using Welch ANOVA and Pearson correlation, respectively.
Result:
Among 6,258 newborns, mean biotinidase activity was 133.3±32.6 U, with a median of 130.2 U and a P2.5-P97.5 interval of 78.4-206.6 U. Median activity tended to increase with gestational age and birth weight, while the smoothed percentile curves remained above the 58.5 U screening cutoff. Mean activity increased from 124.4±34.1 U in samples collected before 24 hours to 149.9±44.5 U in those collected after 96 hours (p<0.001). Activity showed weak positive correlations with gestational age (r=0.042, p=0.001), birth weight (r=0.114, p<0.001), and body length (r=0.102, p<0.001), but negative correlations with time from sample collection to laboratory receipt (r=−0.327, p<0.001) and from laboratory receipt to testing (r=−0.154, p<0.001).
Conclusion
Population-specific percentile values for biotinidase activity were established in a large sample of Mongolian newborns. The findings provide baseline data for interpreting biotinidase activity and highlight the importance of standardized sample collection, transport, and testing.
4.Effect of Traditional Medicine and Acupuncture Therapy on Postoperative Ileus Following Adhesive Small Bowel Obstruction
Undarmaa B ; Nasanhishig D ; Oyun-Erdene U ; Tserendulam G ; Anudari M ; Alzakhgui M ; Oyunbileg Yu ; Batchimeg N ; Enkhtuya V
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;93(3):221-226
Background:
Adhesion small bowel obstruction (ASBO) is a common complication following abdominal surgery and can significantly impair postoperative recovery. This condition necessitates the exploration of more effective therapeutic approaches.
Aim:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Traditional Mongolian Medicine (TMM) combined with acupuncture in the management of postoperative ileus secondary to adhesion-related small bowel obstruction.
Case Presentation:
We report the case of a 47-year-old female patient who developed postoperative ileus. The therapeutic intervention consisted of a combined regimen of traditional herbal pharmacotherapy and electroacupuncture. The clinical outcomes were assessed based on the resolution of symptoms and the restoration of gastrointestinal function.
Result:
Following the administration of the integrated treatment, the patient exhibited a marked reduction in abdominal pain. Objective clinical improvement was noted through the successful restoration of intestinal peristalsis and the normalization of flatus and defecation.
Conclusion
The findings of this case study suggest that Traditional Mongolian Medicine, particularly when integrated with electroacupuncture, may be an effective and viable modality for promoting the recovery of gastrointestinal motility in patients with adhesion-related small bowel obstruction.
5.Results of the study on access to client-centered health services for people living with HIV
Khulan D ; Khishigdelger G ; Uugan-Oyun Ch ; Indra A ; Egshiglen S ; Davaajav Kh ; Oyunbeleg B ; Gantuya G ; Nyamtsengel V
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;94(4):87-91
Background:
Transitioning HIV care toward a client-centered model is a key strategy for improving treatment outcomes and controlling the spread of HIV infection. Evaluating service accessibility, quality, and client satisfaction is essential for improving strategic planning and strengthening health service delivery.
Aim:
To assess the accessibility and quality of client-centered health services among people living with HIV.
Materials and methods:
A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Data were collected using structured questionnaires from 50 clients and 30 health managers who participated voluntarily. The reliability of the questionnaire, measured using Cronbach’s alpha, ranged from 0.673 to 0.783. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 with both descriptive and analytical statistical methods. Quantitative variables were summarized using means and standard deviations, and statistical significance was determined at p < 0.05.
Results:
HIV-related services were found to be highly centralized at the NCCD, particularly for blood testing (96.8%) and inpatient care (71.4%). Overall, 84% of clients reported the need to access services outside NCCD, with the highest demand for internal medicine (32%), dental services (14%), and surgical services (14%). Among the barriers to accessing care, 75% were related to stigma and discrimination associated with HIV status, while 18% were linked to healthcare workers’ attitudes. In addition, 56.7% of healthcare facilities had not conducted HIV-related training, and only 40% had dedicated rooms ensuring confidentiality. Client satisfaction was strongly correlated with healthcare providers’ attitudes and communication (R = 0.614) and confidentiality (R = 0.578), both showing significant associations (p = 0.000).
Conclusion
HIV services remain highly centralized at NCCD, while the readiness of primary and referral healthcare facilities remains insufficient. Strengthening a client-centered care approach requires improving healthcare workers’ attitudes and communication, ensuring confidentiality, and implementing continuous HIV-related training for healthcare providers.
6.Calcium levels in 6-7-year-old children with electrocardiographic changes and their association with physical growth
Uurtsaikh M ; Khongorzul Ts ; Enkhtsolmon S ; Munkh-Erdene U ; Oyun-Erdene R ; Munkhtsetseg Sh ; Amraa G ; Odgerel Ch ; Munkhtsetseg J ; Tulgaa S
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;97(7):60-65
Background:
A child’s physical growth is fundamentally dependent on hormonal regulation, metabolism, and oxygen supply, within which bone mineralization specifically calcium (Ca²⁺) levels acts as a primary factor determining bone mineral density (BMD), muscle function, and hormonal activity. In cardiovascular disease (CVD), multiple physiological processes are disrupted at various levels, including decreased blood circulation and oxygen supply, increased energy expenditure, and reduced absorption of nutrients and micronutrients. In this context, research linking calcium levels in 6–7-year-old children with electrocardiographic (ECG) changes to physical growth has been scarce, which provided the rationale for conducting this study.
Aim:
To investigate the association between calcium levels and physical growth among 6–7-year-old children with electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities detected through early screening.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted using a case-control design. The case group included 143 children aged 6–7 with ECG changes, and the control group included 153 children without ECG changes, totaling 296 voluntary participants. Serum total calcium and albumin levels in both groups were measured using a fully automated biochemical analyzer. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSSv27, applying independent samples t-tests, ANOVA, and correlation analysis to compare means between the two groups.
Results:
The control group’s serum total calcium was 2.65±0.15 mmol/L, corrected calcium was 2.58±0.13 mmol/L, and the case group’s serum total calcium was 2.64±0.18 mmol/L, corrected calcium was 2.59±0.17 mmol/L, with no statistically significant difference observed between the study groups (p>0.05). When comparing total calcium in case-group children with normal height (2.66±0.20) versus those with stunted growth (2.61±0.13), a statistically significant difference was found (p<0.05). Correlation analysis between total and corrected calcium levels and physical growth indicators across study groups showed no statistically significant association. When height measurements were divided into four quartiles (Q1–Q4) and compared against total and corrected serum calcium, no statistically significant differences were found between the groups.
Conclusions
Comparison of physical growth and development Z-scores between children with and without ECG abnormalities revealed no statistically significant differences. However, total calcium levels tended to be lower among children with normal growth compared with those with growth retardation in the case group (p < 0.05). No statistically significant differences were observed in serum total or albumin-corrected calcium levels between the study groups (p > 0.05). When height measurements in the study groups were categorized into quartiles, no statistically significant differences in total or albumin-corrected calcium levels were observed between the groups. This suggests that calcium levels alone may not be a decisive determinant of physical growth in children of the same age.
7.Efficacy of probiotic mouthwash in treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis
Khongorzul S ; Namuundari G ; Narantuul Ch ; Saranchimeg A ; Bolor N ; Khulan G ; Angar S ; Buyanbileg S ; Nyamsuren E ; Oyun-Enkh P ; Oyunkhishig Kh ; Bayarchimeg B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;88(4):112-116
Background:
In the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis, in addition to mechanical plaque control, the use of chemical
plaque control such as mouth rinses for a certain period has shown a positive effect on treatment outcomes and prognosis.
Aim:
To evaluate the efficacy of a probiotic mouthwash in the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis.
Materials and Methods:
A randomized controlled clinical trial was designed for a period of 2 weeks on 45 systemically
healthy subjects between 20 and 25 years having plaque-induced gingivitis. The study population was divided into three
groups. Group 1-15 subjects were advised experimental (probiotic) mouthwash. Group 2-15 subjects were advised positive control (chlorhexidine) mouthwash and Group 3-15 subjects into a negative control group. Oral prophylaxis was
done for all groups at baseline. After the proper oral hygiene instructions, groups 1 and 2 were instructed to rinse their
mouth with 15 ml of their respective mouthwashes, for 1 min twice daily, 30 min after brushing. Clinical parameters such
as Full mouth plaque score (FMPS), Full mouth bleeding score (FMBS) were assessed at baseline, 2 weeks respectively.
Results:
At baseline, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of FMBS and FMPS
mean values (p=0.174, p=0.887). At day 14, the FMPS, FMBS mean values were significantly reduced by all treatment
modalities ranking probiotic and chlorhexidine is greater than negative control group (p<0.001, p<0.001).
Conclusion
The probiotic mouthwash was effectively used as an adjunct to mechanical plaque control in the treatment
of plaque-induced gingivitis.
8.Treatment of miniere’s disease (icd-10 h.81) using traditional medicine and therapeutic interventions: Case report
Undarmaa B ; Tserendulam G ; Oyun-Erdene U ; Oyunnyam Ch ; Nasankhishig D ; Khaliun E ; Tsegmed G ; Oyunbileg Yu ; Enkhtuya V
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;87(3):72-74
Background:
Meniere's disease is a condition caused by disturbances in the
auditory and vestibular systems. It is characterized by symptoms such as dizziness,
nausea, vomiting, and tinnitus. In the United States, the prevalence of
Meniere's disease has been found to be 84 cases per 100,000 women and
56 cases per 100,000 men. Regionally, it is more common in less populated
areas, and research has confirmed that the prevalence increases with higher
household income.
Aim:
To evaluate the effectiveness of traditional medicine treatments and therapies
for Meniere's disease.
Results:
The patient is a 43-year-old male, with symptoms of dizziness, vomiting,
and tinnitus. Since 2023, he has sought care at the Central Hospital of
Mongolian Medicine, where he received traditional medicine treatments including
herbal therapy and other traditional therapies on three occasions. As a
result, the frequency of dizziness has decreased and other clinical symptoms
have improved.
Conclusion
Traditional medicine treatments have been shown to be effective
in managing Meniere's disease by extending the interval between relapses,
improving quality of life, and significantly reducing clinical symptoms.
9.Result of assessment of lactate levels in high-end athletes
Oyundari A ; Bulgan M ; Ser-Od L ; Otgon-Erdene G ; Otgonjargal Ch ; Odgerel Ch ; Tulgaa S ; Nandin-Erdene M ; Buyankhuu T ; Munkhtsetseg J ; Oyun-Erdene R
Diagnosis 2025;113(2):81-88
Background:
Regularly participate international High-level in sports athletes national and competitions and engage in intense training, developing endurance and resilience. Measuring blood lactate levels is crucial for improving an athlete’s performance, assessing sports performance, and enhancing the effectiveness of future training.
Aim:
To study the relationship between lactate levels in the blood plasma and lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity in Mongolian National Team athletes.
Materials and Methods:
The study involved 51 athletes from the Mongolian National Team. 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.
Results:
The average age of the participants was 24.04 ± 4.15 years, with an average height of 168 ± 8.78 cm and an average weight of 71.01 ± 7.69 kg. The average BMI was 24.82 ± 4.12 kg/m². Pre exercise lactate levels averaged 3.84 ± 0.75 mmol/L, while post-exercise lactate levels averaged 9.67±3.52 mmol/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 lactate levels before and after exercise among the athletes participating in the study showed significant differences in the age groups 20-29 (p<0.0001). When comparing lactate levels before and after exercise by sport, statistically significant increases were observed in freestyle wrestling and judo athletes (p<0.0001)
10.Evaluation of changes in human salivary amylase enzyme activity
Sarangerel G ; Odmaa T ; Buyankhuu T ; Oyun-Erdene P ; Odgerel Ch ; Tulgaa S ; Otgonjargal Ch ; Munkhtsetseg J ; Nandin-Erdene M
Diagnosis 2025;114(3):104-111
Background:
Saliva as a non-invasive biological sample can be a game-changer in early disease detection and health risk assessment.
Objective:
To examine the association between participants' dietary patterns and the activity of salivary amylase, along with serum amylase levels in humans.
Materials and methods:
This study was conducted at the research laboratory of the Department of Biochemistry, School of Biomedicine, MNUMS. A total of 30 students aged 19–22 years participated in the study. Saliva samples were collected three times at one-week intervals, and one blood sample was collected from each participant, alongside a dietary questionnaire. The activity of the amylase enzyme in both saliva and serum samples was determined using the iodine-starch method.
Results:
When evaluating the amylase enzyme activity based on participants' carbohydrate intake, the result was p > 0.05, indicating no statistically significant difference. Similarly, statistical analysis of the use of mouthwash and vitamin supplements also showed p > 0.05, which means these variables had no statistically significant effect on amylase activity. The correlation between salivary and serum amylase activity was found to be r = 0.365, indicating a weak positive correlation, but the difference was not statistically significant.
Conclusion
The intake of carbohydrates, vitamins, and mouthwash does not significantly affect the activity level of the salivary amylase enzyme, according to research findings. However, external factors such as stress and air pollution have been shown to exert a measurable influence on its activity. A comparative analysis of enzyme levels in saliva and blood using amylase as a representative marker revealed similar activity levels in both fluids. This suggests that saliva may serve as a viable non invasive sample for detecting various biomarkers and diagnosing diseases. The results underscore the potential of salivary components, particularly amylase, as valuable indicators in diagnostic applications.
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