1.Evaluation of the interactions between flavonoid molecules and the active site of the MRXA7 protein using molecular docking
Amarjargal Ts ; Ariunzaya D ; Nurdana B ; Densmaa L ; Bilguun B ; Uugantsetseg D ; Temuulen Ts ; Baasanjav B ; Munkhzul B ; Daariimaa Kh
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;91(1):217-226
Background:
Skin wound healing, elasticity, and protective functions are closely associated with cellular regeneration and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM). MXRA7 (Matrix Remodeling Associated Protein 7) is a protein involved in ECM regulation, tissue regeneration, and inflammatory processes, and recent studies suggest that it may play a supportive role in skin wound healing. However, systematic investigations on natural small molecules capable of modulating MXRA7 activity remain limited. Flavonoids, on the other hand, have been reported to promote wound healing and ECM regulation through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it is hypothesized that flavonoid compounds may act as potential modulators of MXRA7 protein activity.
Aim:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the binding affinity, binding energy, and interaction characteristics of 14 naturally occurring flavonoid compounds with the active site of the MXRA7 protein using a molecular docking approach.
Materials and Methods:
The molecular structures of the flavonoids were obtained from the PubChem database, and their interactions with the MXRA7 protein were investigated using molecular docking with CB-Dock2 and SwissDock software. Docking results were visualized using PyMOL and evaluated based on root mean square deviation (RMSD), binding free energy (∆G), inhibition constant (Ki), pose ranking, and cluster analysis. An RMSD value of ≤ 2.0 Å was considered indicative of a stable binding pose.
Result:
The RMSD values of the MXRA7–flavonoid complexes ranged from 0.081 to 0.622 Å, indicating that all compounds stably occupied the binding cavity of the protein. Fisetin (0.081 Å), naringenin (0.107 Å), and hesperetin (0.107 Å) exhibited the lowest RMSD values, suggesting highly stable binding poses. The binding free energy (∆G) values ranged from −6.0 to −7.1 kcal/mol, with protopine showing the strongest binding affinity (∆G=−7.1 kcal/mol). Most flavonoids formed hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and π–π interactions with key amino acid residues of MXRA7. Cluster analysis revealed that the majority of flavonoids shared a common binding mode, while fisetin, naringenin, and hesperetin formed a distinct subcluster with more stable binding poses. Ligand efficiency (LE) analysis indicated that chrysin, apigenin, and naringenin exhibited higher LE values, reflecting greater binding efficiency of smaller molecules.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates, through molecular docking analysis, that flavonoid compounds can stably interact with the active site of the MXRA7 protein. Protopine showed the strongest binding energy, whereas fisetin, naringenin, and hesperetin exhibited superior binding pose stability. These compounds may serve as potential bioactive molecules targeting MXRA7; however, further validation through molecular dynamics simulations and experimental studies is required.
2.Results of a study on the helminth fauna of the dog population in selected soums of Bayan-Ulgii Province
Otgonzaya B ; Tserenlkham M ; Ganzorig S ; Chinchuluun B ; Oyuntuya Sh ; Adiyasuren D ; Unursaikhan U ; Gurbadam A ; Bulgan G ; Battuul G ; Giimaa N ; Burnee M ; Temuulen D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):25-29
Background:
More than 60 zoonotic diseases can be transmitted from dogs (Canis lupus familiar’s) to humans, one of which is cystic echinococcosis (CE). Approximately 270 million people in Central Asia live in areas at risk for CE, and Mongolia is included in this region. The transmission of zoonotic infection is facilitated by the movement of humans, livestock, and dogs, as well as trade and cross-border interactions between countries.
Aim:
To determine the helminth fauna in the dog populations of selected soums of Bayan-Ulgii Province, identify zoonotic pathogens, and investigate Taeniidae infection.
Materials and Methods:
Seven soums of Bayan-Ulgii province bordering the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China were selected using a targeted sampling approach. Domestic dogs belonging to 300 individuals who underwent abdominal ultrasound screening for cystic echinococcosis were included after obtaining consent for deworming. Anthelmintic treatment (5 mg/kg) was administered, and fecal samples from 95 dogs were collected post-treatment. Helminth eggs were identified to determine the helminth fauna. DNA was extracted from samples positive for Taeniidae eggs using a DNA extraction kit (Qiagen, Stool DNA kit, Germany). The mitochondrial cox1 gene was amplified by PCR using F/COI and R/COI primers to determine infection status.
Results:
The helminth fauna of the dog population in Bayan-Ulgii province consisted of members of the Taeniidae family and the genus Ascaris, as well as Toxocara canis, Trichuris vulpis, Macracanthorhynchus catulinus, Oncicola canis, Strongyloides canis, and Alaria canis. Prevalence rates were as follows Taeniidae 10.5%, T. canis 4.2%, S. canis 3.2%, A. canis 2.1%, Ascaris 2.1%, T. vulpis 2.1%, O.canis 3.2%, M. catulinus 5.2%. Among these, T. canis, T. vulpis, A. canis, and members of the Taeniidae family are zoonotic parasites transmissible from dogs to humans. DNA was extracted from 10 samples positive for Taeniidae eggs. Amplification of the cox1 gene using COI primers revealed an 880 bp band in 9 samples (90%), confirming infection.
Conclusions
1. The helminth fauna of dogs in selected soums of Bayan-Ulgii Province consisted of helminths belonging to 1 family, 1 genus, and 6 species. 2. Taeniidae infection was detected in 9.0% of dogs in the selected soums of Bayan-Ulgii Province.
3.Performance of risk-based scoring systems in Colorectal cancer screening
Temuulen Ts ; Sarantuya G ; ; Oyuntsetseg Kh ; Sugar B ; Zesemdorj O ; Tsevelnorov Kh ; ; Gantuya B ; ; Sainzaya B ; Munkh-Erdene Ts ; Saruuljavkhlan B ; ; Byambajav Ts ;
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):50-56
Background:
According to the 2024 national health statistics of Mongolia, colorectal cancer accounts for 5.1% of all newly diagnosed cancers, with 74.1% detected at an advanced stage. Although population-based screening programs have recently been implemented, no studies have established a risk factor–based scoring system with an optimal cut-off value or evaluated its clinical utility in resource-limited settings in Mongolia.
Aim:
To develop a modified APCS (mAPCS) scoring system and evaluate its clinical applicability for colorectal cancer screening.
Materials and Methods:
A hospital-based prospective cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2024 and February 2026 at the outpatient clinics of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences and the Mongolia–Japan Hospital. A total of 447 eligible participants were enrolled. Anthropometric measurements (height and weight) were obtained, and six categories of questionnaires (demographic data, APCS risk score, behavioral factors, medical history, and medication use) were administered. Eleven participants declined colonoscopy; therefore, 436 participants underwent colonoscopic examination, with histopathological evaluation performed when indicated.
Results:
A total of 436 participants were included, of whom 282 (64.7%) were female, with a mean age of 54.8±11.5 years. Colorectal adenomas (advanced and non-advanced) and colorectal cancer were detected in 199 (45.6%) participants. Among them, 43 (21.6%) had advanced colorectal neoplasia. Multivariable regression analysis identified age ≥55 years (OR 4.8), BMI ≥28 kg/m² (OR 3.6), and a family history of colorectal cancer (OR 3.1) as independent risk factors for advanced neoplasia. The optimal cut-off value for the mAPCS score was 4, with an overall diagnostic accuracy of 41.7% (sensitivity 97.7%, specificity 35.6%).
Conclusions
1. Age ≥55 years, BMI ≥28 kg/m², and a family history of colorectal cancer were identified as independent risk factors for advanced colorectal neoplasia. At a cut-off value of ≥4, the mAPCS scoring system demonstrated high sensitivity (97.7%), low specificity (35.6%), high negative predictive value (99.2%), and low positive predictive value (14.2%). 2. Therefore, the mAPCS scoring system may serve as a useful tool for risk stratification and efficient allocation of limited resources in colorectal cancer screening.
4.Prevalence of Taeniidae infection and associated risk factors in the domestic dog population of selected soums in Sukhbaatar Province
Tserenlkham M ; Otgonzaya B ; Ganzorig S ; Chinchuluun B ; Oyuntuya Sh ; Adiyasuren D ; Unursaikhan U ; Gurbadam A ; Bulgan G ; Battuul G ; Giimaa N ; Burnee M ; Temuulen D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):160-164
Background:
The family Taeniidae (Ludwig, 1886) belongs to the class Cestoda, phylum Platyhelminthes, and order Cyclophyllidea. Zoonotic parasites within this family, particularly Taenia and Echinococcus species, impose a significant socio-economic burden in developing countries.
Aim:
To determine the prevalence of Taeniidae infection in the domestic dog population of selected soums in Sukhbaatar Province and to identify associated risk factors.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 135 domestic dogs from seven soums bordering China in Sukhbaatar Province were dewormed, and post-treatment fecal samples were collected for the detection of Taeniidae eggs. DNA was extracted from egg-positive samples using the QIAamp Fast DNA Stool Mini Kit (QIAGEN, Germany). The cox1 gene was amplified using F/COI and R/COI primers through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to confirm infection. Associations between Taeniidae infection and potential risk factors were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.
Results:
Taeniidae eggs were detected in 35 of 135 fecal samples (25.9%). The mean number of eggs per gram of feces varied among samples. PCR amplification confirmed Taeniidae infection in 30 of the 35 egg-positive samples (85.7%), producing an 880-base pair fragment. The analysis revealed that several owner-related and management-related factors were significantly associated with an increased risk of Taeniidae infection in domestic dogs, including type of residence (OR=12.18; 95% CI: 1.51-98.89; p<0.019), allowing dogs to roam freely (OR=8.08; 95% CI: 2.19–29.73; p<0.002), and feeding dogs raw livestock viscera (OR=265.12; 95% CI: 16.2-4561.7; p<0.0001).
Conclusion
A 22.2% prevalence of Taeniidae infection was identified among domestic dogs in selected soums of Sukhbaatar Province. Household living conditions, allowing dogs to roam freely without restraint, and feeding dogs raw livestock organs and offal were identified as significant risk factors associated with Taeniidae infection.
5.Management and monitoring of hypokalemia occurring during certain diseases
Temuulen Ts ; Maral B ; Baasanjargal B ; Agidulam Z ; Burenbayar Ch ; Ankhbayar D ; Tsogdulam S ; Amardulguun S ; Otgon-Erdene M ; Anujin G ; Khongorzul U1 ; Delgermaa Sh ; Odgerel Ts
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):51-54
Background:
Hypokalemia is considered when the serum potassium level is less than 3.5 mmol/L. Clinical research indicates
that hypokalemia affects 20% of hospitalized patients, and in 24% of these cases, inadequate interventions result
in life-threatening complications. At present, there is no research available on the prevalence, management, and outcomes
of hypokalemia in hospitalized patients, which justifies the need for this study.
Aim:
The study aimed to examine the prevalence of hypokalemia and the effectiveness of its management in hospitalized
patients within the internal medicine department, in relation to the knowledge of doctors and resident physicians.
Materials and Methods:
This hospital-based retrospective study included a total of 553 cases of patients hospitalized in
the Internal Medicine Department of the Mongolia Japan Hospital between January 2024 and August 2024. Patients with
a potassium level of <3.5 mmol/L were diagnosed with hypokalemia, and the effectiveness of potassium replacement
therapy was evaluated according to the method of supplementation employed.
Results:
The prevalence of hypokalemia among hospitalized patients in the Internal Medicine Department was 9.8%
(54 cases). Based on the study criteria, 42 cases of hypokalemia were selected for further analysis, and a total of 118 potassium
replacements were performed through oral, intravenous, and mixed methods. Following potassium replacement
therapy, 37.3% (44) of patients achieved normalized potassium levels, while 62.7% (74) still had persistent hypokalemia.
Conclusion
According to the study results, the prevalence of hypokalemia among hospitalized patients in the Internal
Medicine Department is 9.8%. The method of potassium replacement and the severity of hypokalemia do not impact the
normalization of potassium levels, with the critical factor being the proper dosage of supplementation. The knowledge
of doctors and resident physicians regarding hypokalemia is insufficient, and there is a need to implement guidelines and
protocols for potassium replacement therapy in daily clinical practice.
6.Central serous chorioretinopathy
Temuulen B ; Baasansuren G ; Byambadorj M ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):257-262
Background:
Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is described by researchers as a condition that results from fluid
under the retinal pigment epithelium, originating from the choroid of the eye. This disease usually affects the central part
of vision and may resolve on its own over time, though in some cases, it can persist for long periods or recur. In our country, there is a lack of research regarding this condition, which led to the motivation for gathering and reviewing existing
works on this topic.
Aim:
To collect and analyze a review of the studies on central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR).
Methods:
We reviewed and analyzed literature related to CSCR published in electronic sources such as Thomson Reuters, PubMed-central database, and Google Scholar using literature review methods.
Results:
CSCR is most commonly seen in individuals aged 35-55 years, with a significantly higher prevalence in men
(9.9/100,000) compared to women (1.7/100,000). Researchers found that the prevalence of CSCR is nearly the same
among populations in Europe, Africa, and Asia. CSCR typically affects one eye, but it occurs in both eyes in up to 40%
of cases. Weenink A (2001) studied the family members of 27 patients with bilateral CSCR, finding that 52% of family
members had been diagnosed with CSCR, and 27.5% of them had chronic CSCR in at least one eye. This suggests a
potential genetic predisposition to CSCR. According to researchers, while CSCR can be diagnosed clinically, additional
imaging techniques like fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography are frequently used to rule out other
diagnoses and guide treatment.
Conclusion
CSCR generally has a favorable prognosis, but recurrences and its effects on visual function indicate the
need for effective management strategies. To maintain long-term visual improvement, it is essential to provide healthcare
services tailored to the patient’s specific conditions and risk factors.
7.The Correlation Between Prognostic Indicators of Chronic Liver Diseases and Certain Blood Test Parameters
Munkhtsetseg M ; Allabyergyen M ; Temuulen Ts ; Narangere .B ; Temuulen E ; Sumiyabazar A ; Bolormaa B ; Munkhuu A ; Dorjzodov D ; Munkhbat R ; Odgerel Ts
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):191-195
Background:
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver cancer originating from liver cells, classified as a chronic
liver disease. This cancer ranks third in the world in terms of mortality rate. The MELD (Model for End-Stage Liver
Disease) and Child-Pugh scoring systems are utilized to assess the prognosis of chronic liver diseases. Based on studies
suggesting that certain blood test indicators, particularly red cell distribution width (RDW), could be used to predict the
prognosis of liver cancer and other cancers, as well as serve as diagnostic markers, this topic was chosen to evaluate the
clinical significance of RDW in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Aim:
The aim is to study some blood test indicators and compare them with the MELD score and Child-Pugh score systems
in order to determine the prognosis of chronic liver diseases.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective, single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted at Mongolia-Japan Hospital.
Among 322 patients diagnosed with HCC, 24 patients were selected for the case group, and 37 patients with liver cirrhosis
were included in the control group.
Results:
According to the research criteria, 61 patients were selected and divided into 3 groups, and statistical analysis
was performed. In the detailed blood test, platelet count and WBC count showed statistically significant differences
among the 3 groups (p< 0.024). In the biochemical tests, C-reactive protein (CRP) was p< 0.018, total bilirubin p< 0.001,
and the mean albumin level p< 0.015, all showing statistically significant differences among the 3 groups. A statistically
significant inverse correlation was observed between RDW-CV and the clinical MELD score (r=-0.356).
Conclusion
Platelet count, RDW, CRP, total bilirubin, and average albumin levels are significantly different across the
studied groups. RDW-CV shows a moderate inverse correlation with MELD scores, suggesting its potential as a prognostic
marker in chronic liver diseases. Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended to confirm these findings.
8.Assessment of rational use of antibiotics among hospitalized pregnant women at the National Center for Maternal and Child Health
Oyungerel V ; ; Temuulen T ; Sosorbaram A ; Purevsuren S ; Tungalag B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;90(6):178-183
Background:
Pregnancy induces multiple physiological, metabolic, and immunological alterations that increase susceptibility to infections, often necessitating antibiotic therapy. Evaluating the rational use of antibiotics among pregnant
women is crucial for optimizing antimicrobial stewardship at the hospital level, improving clinical pharmacy services,
and reducing the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
Aim:
To assess the rational use of antibiotics, including indication, selection, dosage, and treatment duration—among
hospitalized pregnant women in the Department of High-Risk Pregnancy and the Department of Preterm Birth at the
National Center for Maternal and Child Health.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective study was conducted using a specifically designed data collection form to assess
antibiotic use among inpatients at the National Center for Maternal and Child Health. Descriptive statistical analyses were
performed using SPSS version 29.0.
Results:
A total of 348 pregnant inpatients were included, with a mean age of 31.6 ± 6.9 years. The mean length of hospital stay was significantly longer in the Department of Preterm Birth (12.5 ± 5.0 days) compared to the Department of
High-Risk Pregnancy (5.9 ± 2.0 days; p < 0.001). The indications for antibiotic use were therapeutic in 39.1%, prophylactic in 33.0%, and unspecified in 21.3% of cases. The most frequently prescribed antibiotic regimen was a combination
of β-lactams and metronidazole (29%). While the dosing of cefazolin and cefotaxime was largely appropriate, notable
dosing discrepancies were observed in the dosing of ampicillin and azithromycin. Based on the U.S. FDA pregnancy risk
classification, among a total of 762 antibiotic prescriptions, 87.0% belonged to category B, 8.8% to category C, and 4.2%
to category D, with no significant variation across trimesters (p = 0.695).
Conclusion
The assessment of antibiotic use among hospitalized pregnant women at the National Center for Maternal
and Child Health revealed that 39.1% of the prescriptions were therapeutic, 33.0% were prophylactic, and 21.3% lacked
a clear indication for use. β-lactam antibiotics were the most commonly used agents, frequently combined with metronidazole. Based on the FDA classification system, 87% of the prescribed antibiotics belonged to category B, 8.8% to
category C, and 4.2% to category D. These findings indicate inappropriate antibiotic use and insufficient implementation
of antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Therefore, strict adherence to antibiotic stewardship programs and strengthening
of clinical pharmacy services are necessary to improve antibiotic use practices.
9.ADULT ORTHODONTICS WITH DAHL TECHNIQUE FOR BETTERFUNCTION AND AESTHETICS
Bilgee J ; Gantsetseg L ; Enkhjargal N ; Khorolbayar Sh ; Temuulen B ; Orkhon B ; Urjinlkham J
Innovation 2018;12(4):40-44
BACKGROUND. The Dahl Concept refers to the relative axial tooth movement that is observed when a localized restorations are placed in supra-occlusion in dental hard tissue worn anterior area and posterior full arch occlusal contacts re-establishes over a period of time irrespective of age and gender. The literature reports that the objectives of the Dahl concept are achieved in the majority of cases (94%-100%). Some minor and transient adverse events, such as initial difficulty with mastication could develop. If dental arch is crowded and some of the teeth are pushed away, they tends to be pushed more even they were visually aligned by a heavy preparation under the ceramic restorations such as crowns and veneers. To avoid these costly and teeth-harmful treatment options for patients with anterior crowding and who wants straighter and beautiful looking teeth, we use a conservative approach of Align+Bleach+Bonding technique.
MATEREALS AND METHOD. For tooth alignment we used Inman Aligner, Clear Aligner and Clear Smile Braces (fixed ceramic braces with super elastic Ni-Ti wires) or their combination. After short orthodontics a Dahl concept was applied to improve patients’ functional occlusion and anterior guidance. A “free-hand” and “no-any-drill” composite restoration technique was used to restore worn anterior teeth. For proper orthodontic diagnosis, assessment and treatment planning Spacewise analysis and Digital Caliper measurement were performed using models, their digital scans and intra/extraoral photos. We use Inman Orthodontic Lab in Florida for Inman Aligner fabrication and IAS Laboratory in London for Clear smile braces set up. Clear aligners (Scheu Dental, Germany) are planned and fabricated at the Digital Dental Office’s Clear Aligner certified laboratory. All treatments are start only after thorough diagnostic analysis, case discussion and acceptance from technical experts and orthodontists from UK, USA and Germany and acceptance of planned results from the patients. A course of home bleaching was then performed followed by resin bonding of anterior teeth edges to stabilize anterior guidance.
RESULTS. More than 200 cases of upper and lower anterior crowding have been treated in comparably short period of time. From those we are introducing 3 different cases which were treated using above mentioned three appliances as an example. Average orthodontic treatment lasted 8-16 weeks depending on degree of crowding and type of appliances used. The arch crowding were less than 4 mm in all of them. No any teeth were extracted. After orthodontic treatment patients had double retentions (fixed+clear retainers). Dahl concept was performed in patients with anterior attrition and few patients experienced minor difficulty with chewing for their first week only. To control results of molar extrusion we measured space between occlusal surfaces of opposing molars in the SAM 3 articulator positioned in the centric relation.
CONCLUSION. In order to get a long term proper stability of dento-facial function with a bonus of beautiful smile the concept of keeping own teeth and its structure became essential in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. The good thing of Dahl technique is its simplicity if it is done properly and its cost effectiveness. And as it was described the edge bonding itself could be a permanent retainer which prevents a future relapse in ortho-aligned teeth. Moreover patients were highly satisfied due to fast alignment, opportunity of keeping their teeth untouched and getting aesthetically pleasant result with a stable function.
10.ЭХЭМҮТ-Н ХЗП-Н СОНСГОЛ ЗАСЛЫН КАБИНЕТААР ҮЙЛЧЛҮҮЛСЭН ГАДНА ЧИХНИЙ ГАЖ ХӨГЖИЛТЭЙ ХҮҮХДҮҮДИЙН ХЯНАЛТЫН СУДАЛГААНЫ ЗАРИМ ҮР ДҮН
Ariuntuya D ; Zolzaya Ts ; Enkhtunsag B ; Temuulen B
Innovation 2018;12(3):18-21
BACKGROUND: Microtia is often associated with hearing loss and patients typically
require treatment for hearing impairment and surgical ear reconstruction. The
occurrence of microtia is of public health importance in part due to the psychosocial
sequelae, including the stigma associated with malformations of the ear and the burden
of undergoing multiple surgeries
In addition, greater than 90% of individuals with microtia experience conductive hearing
loss on the affected side. Although children with microtia-anotia are at a greater risk of
delayed language development and attention deficit disorders.
METHODS: Our study has a 173 childrens from the UB city and countryside. 23 children
has a bilateral microtia and anotia. 6 patient wearing BAHA soft band from 6 months
age. 150 patients have an unilateral microtia. Microtia was found more commonly in
males, unilateral and right sided. Even children with bilateral microtia may have wearing
BAHA soft band before 6 months age.
RESULTS: External ear malformations are more commonly found in males. Sex ratio 2:1.
From other studies right ear malformations are more common in male children. In our
study children who have bilateral ear abnormalities wearing BAHA softband and
language therapy from 6 months age to able to have normal language development.
Children who had surgical treatment and using hearing aid can have normal social life
and increased quality of life.
CONCLUSION: Early screening in children who have external ear malformation,
monitoring language development, wearing BAHA softband from 2 months age who
have bilateral ear malformation and one ear affected other one is normal children
wear BAHA softband increases children speech and language development.
Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail