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: 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.

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.

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.

Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that noise pollution leads to a variety of short-term and long-term health issues, including sleep disorders, cardiovascular diseases, impaired concentration, decreased performance at work and school, and hearing difficulties. It has been established that for every 10 dB increase in environmental noise, the incidence of heart attacks among individuals aged 65 and older increases by 3.9% compared to those living in quieter environments (Seidler, et al., 2016). Furthermore, it has been found that noise pollution exceeding 65 dB is directly related to hypertension among residents living along high-traffic roads. Objective: To assessing traffic load and noise pollution on the roads of Ulaanbaatar Materials and Methods: The study was a cross-sectional survey conducted to determine noise pollution at 15 locations along roads such as Sun Road, Peace Avenue, Ard-Ayush Street, and Ikh Toiruu. Measurements were taken during morning (7-9 AM), afternoon (12-2 PM), evening (5-7 PM), and night (11 PM-1 AM) using a Noise Meter, Sound Level Meter, and portable equipment. Measurements were conducted at one point 100-200 meters from the main road, with three repetitions to assess hearing levels. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-24 software, and the results were compared to the Air Quality Technical General Requirements MNS 4585:2016 standard (During the day (07:00-22:00), 60 dB(A), and at night (22:00 07:00), 45 dB(A)). Results: The measurement results revealed that the maximum noise value in the morning (7-9 AM) was 83 dB(A), the minimum noise value was 51 dB(A), and the average of the maximum noise values was 74.1±4.7 dB(A). The maximum noise value during the day was 97 dB(A), the minimum noise value was 47 dB(A), and the average of the maximum noise value was 74.4±6.9 dB(A). In the evening, the maximum noise value was 88 dB(A), the minimum noise value was 47 dB(A), and the average of the maximum noise value was 74.4±6.6 dB(A). For the night measurements, the maximum noise value was 86 dB(A), the minimum noise value was 49 dB(A), and the average of the maximum noise value was 69.4±7.7 dB(A).
When calculating the average noise pollution on weekdays and weekends, the average of the max and min values during the morning, evening, and night on weekdays was 0.59-4.33 dB(A) higher than that of the weekend. The average maximum value during the day on weekends was 2.79 dB(A) higher than that of weekdays. The number of vehicles participating in road traffic showed a strong positive correlation with environmental noise (Rxy=0.660, p=0.0001), and the number of times the horn was sounded also revealed strong positive correlation with environmental noise (Rxy=0.674, p=0.029). Conclusion The noise level along the main roads exceeds the permissible limits set by the "Air Quality. Technical General Requirements MNS 4585:2016" standard by 37 dB(A) during the day and by 41 dB(A) at night. The average maximum value during the day exceeds the standard by 14.6 dB(A). This indicates that Ulaanbaatar is experiencing noise pollution at levels that negatively affect the health of the urban population.

Background: Indoor air quality in schools is an important environmental health concern because children spend a substantial proportion of their time in classrooms and are particularly vulnerable to air pollutants. Objective: To assess common chemical, and biological pollutants in the indoor air of general education schools in Ulaanbaatar. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 10, 2025, to March 1, 2026, in 16 purposively selected schools and 32 classrooms across six districts of Ulaanbaatar. PM2.5, PM10, CO₂, and microclimatic parameters were monitored continuously for seven days. Volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, BTEX compounds, and radon were also measured. Airborne microorganisms were assessed using 160 air samples, and 160 surface swabs were collected. Results were compared with MNS 7106:2026, MNS 5484:2005, and MNS 6410:2018 standards. Results: The mean 24-hour concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were 25.2 and 36.1 µg/m³, respectively. PM2.5 exceeded the permissible level during winter and in schools located in apartment areas, whereas the mean PM10 concentration met the acceptable level. Total bacteria were detected in all air samples, with a mean concentration of 1,733.25 CFU/m³. Mould and fungi were detected in 56.3% of classrooms, and enteric bacteria were detected in 4.3% of surface swabs. Radon levels remained below the permissible limit, and pathogenic bacteria were not detected. Formaldehyde was detected in all samples, while total VOCs and toluene were detected in 81.3%; their mean concentrations remained within acceptable levels. In one classroom, the concentration of benzene was detected approximately 30 times higher the permissible level. Conclusion Although some indoor air-quality indicators met the relevant standards, PM2.5, total bacteria, mould and fungi, surface enteric bacteria, and benzene contamination require improvement and may pose health risks to children. Regular ventilation, improved cleaning and hygiene, proper maintenance of HEPA devices, and routine monitoring of particulate matter, mould, and VOCs are needed.

Introduction: Safe and accessible WASH services in healthcare facilities are crucial for maintaining high quality care, especially for maternal and newborn health. The WHO-UNICEF JMP on Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene provides reports on progress in water supply, sanitation, and hygiene services at global, regional, and national levels, covering populations, schools, and healthcare facilities. This assessment was conducted to address the insufficient data on the level of hand hygiene services in healthcare facilities, following the methodology of the JMP. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 319 healthcare facilities. Availability of hand hygiene services in the study healthcare facilities was assessed using questionnaire of methodology of the JMP. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 software. Relevant parametric and non parametric statistical analysis were conducted. Results: Overall, 72% and 28% of healthcare facilities had basic and limited hand hygiene service respectively. About 18% of private healthcare facilities had limited hand hygiene service compared to 34% of state healthcare facilities. While 20% of urban healthcare facilities had limited hand hygiene service, 56% of rural healthcare facilities do. When examining the level of hand hygiene services by type of medical care, specialty hospitals have 100% basic services. Among primary care facilities, 83% of family health centers provide basic services, while 41% of soum and village health centers meet these standards. Conclusion The basic hand hygiene services in urban healthcare facilities and specialty hospitals were generally sufficient. There need to enhance basic hand hygiene service at the soum and village level. Among the assessed facilities, 81.0% met four out of the five key hand hygiene requirements outlined in the national standard. However, additional budget allocation for maintenance and operational costs for keeping soap and sustaining water running remains crucial to ensure sustained compliance and quality.

Introduction: According to the WHO, being exposed to loud noise for a long time can be very harmful to health. It can lead to heart and blood vessel problems, mental health issues, trouble sleeping, and hearing loss. Noise pollution has a negative effect on the brain and nervous system, and it can cause many problems. High-frequency noise, in particular, can disturb the central nervous system. This can lead to problems like poor concentration, more anxiety, and feeling mentally tired. Many studies around the world have shown that noise levels of ≥85 dB at work increase the risk of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and tinnitus.In Ulaanbaatar, environmental noise pollution continues to grow due to population growth, construction, and urban planning. Therefore, it is important to find out whether environmental noise pollution is linked to mental and behavioral disorders, insomnia, nervous fatigue, high blood pressure, and hearing loss among the population. Goal: The aim of this study is to examine the prevalence of primary hypertension (I10), nervous fatigue (F48.0), sleep disorders (F51.0), and tinnitus (H83.3) caused by environmental noise among the population of Ulaanbaatar. Materials and Methods: A descriptive research design was applied to examine statistical data from the Center for Health Development regarding diseases related to noise pollution. Based on the 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10), the study focused on conditions such as neurasthenia (F48.0), non-organic sleep disorders (F51), primary hypertension (I10), and hearing disorders (H83.3). The analysis included data recorded between 2014 and 2023 among the population of Ulaanbaatar city. Epidemiological analysis was performed using SPSS-24 software, and the results were calculated per 10,000 population. Ethical Considerations: This study did not receive any external funding or financial support from public or private organizations. It utilizes secondary data from the Health Development Center, which does not contain any personal information. Results: In 2014, the average age of individuals diagnosed with neurasthenia (F48.0) was 40.1±12.6 years; for non-organic sleep disorders (F51.0), it was 48.1±14.5 years; for noise-induced hearing disorders (H83.3), 47.2±12.7 years; and for primary hypertension (I10), the average age was 59.0±11.4 years. By 2023, the average age for primary hypertension had slightly decreased to 58.0±12.9 years. Since 2014, the number of cases of nervous fatigue, non organic sleep disorders, and hearing problems caused by noise has risen in Ulaanbaatar. In 2023, the average age of people with primary hypertension (I10) dropped to 58.0±12.9 years. Noise-related illnesses are common among people aged 40 to 60 in Ulaanbaatar, and this is lowering their quality of life. Conclusion Noise-related illnesses are being recorded among the 40–60 age group in Ulaanbaatar, which is negatively affecting their quality of life. It is urgently necessary to introduce measures for adequate protection of the population from the negative health effects of environmental noise.

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

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.