1.The significance of exhaled nitric oxide in the diagnosis of asthma
Densenbal D ; Solongo B ; Ankhbold G ; Amarsanaa O ; Battsengel Ts ; Zesemdorj O ; Janchivdorj Z ; Ankhil L ; Tseepil E ; Odonchimeg B ; Sarantuya J ; Ichinnorov D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):14-18
Background:
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by bronchoconstriction and breathing difficulties,
which can be triggered by both allergic and non-allergic mechanisms. In allergic asthma, a hyperreactivity reaction
occurs, leading to an increase in fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) levels. Therefore, FeNO is used to differentiate
allergic and non-allergic types of asthma. In recent years, studies have been conducted to assess FeNO as an indicator of
treatment effectiveness and symptom control. Our goal is to introduce FeNO measurement in Mongolia for the first time
and utilize it for asthma diagnosis and treatment outcome evaluation.
Aim:
Study of FeNO levels in Asthma Diagnosis in Relation to Laboratory Findings and Lung Function
Materials and Methods:
This study included a total of 70 adult patients (18 years and older) with asthma who visited the
Outpatient Clinic of Mongolia-Japan Hospital and Shargaljuut Spa Clinic from May to December 2024. Based on their
allergic history, total IgE levels, and peripheral blood eosinophil count, participants were classified into allergic (>5%)
and non-allergic (<5%) asthma. The study aimed to determine the diagnostic specificity and sensitivity of FeNO levels.
Asthma control levels were assessed using the Asthma Control Test (ACT), lung function was evaluated using spirometry,
and exercise capacity was measured with the 6-minute walk test.
Results:
In a single measurement, there were no differences between the allergic and non-allergic groups in parameters
other than total IgE, peripheral blood eosinophil count, and FeNO levels. For diagnosing the allergic form of asthma, at
a FeNO level of 25 ppb, sensitivity (Se) was 0.68, specificity (Sp) was 0.30 (p=0.008); at 40 ppb, Se was 0.77, Sp was
0.31 (p=0.001); and at 50 ppb, Se was 0.74, Sp was 0.33 (p=0.001). Lung function and exercise capacity were similar in
both asthma groups.
Conclusion
The sensitivity of FeNO in distinguishing between allergic and non-allergic forms of asthma is 67-81%, and
its sensitivity tends to increase as the FeNO level rises. By distinguishing the allergic type in which inhaled corticosteroids
are more effective, the outcome of asthma treatment can be predicted in advance based on the FeNO level.
2.Short-term effects of hot spring therapy on asthma
Densenbal D ; Ichinnorov D ; Ankhbold G ; Amarsanaa O ; Battsengel Ts ; Zesemdorj O ; Janchivdorj Z ; Ankhil L ; Tseepil E ; Tumen-Ulzii G ; Еkaterina Faermark ; Odonchimeg B ; Solongo B
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):19-23
Background:
Asthma management should be individualized, evidence-based, aimed at controlling clinical symptoms,
preventing severe exacerbations, and improving quality of life. Studies have shown that inhalation therapy with iodine-
bromide saltwater improves lung function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while radon-containing
mineral water inhalation reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in asthma. Several studies have analyzed the
composition of the Shargaljuut hot spring, with Oyuntsesteg et al. identifying high levels of Na+-HCO3
- and Na+-SO4.
Other studies on mineral water therapies have reported benefits such as thinning bronchial secretions, improving sputum
clearance, reducing inflammation and acidity, mitigating oxidative stress, and enhancing quality of life.
Aim:
To study the effectiveness of combined asthma treatment with inhaled corticosteroids and hot spring inhalation.
Materials and Methods:
The study included 67 participants diagnosed with asthma who consented to participate and
underwent 10 days of combined inhaled corticosteroid therapy and mineral water inhalation at Shargaljuut sanatorium. A
total of 57 participants completed the pre- and post-treatment assessments. Treatment result was assessed using Asthma
control questionnaire 7, asthma symptom control with Asthma Control Test (ACT), and exercise tolerance by a 6-minute
walk test. Chest X-rays were taken for all participants to rule out pneumonia, cancer, or pulmonary fibrosis. Treatment
outcomes were evaluated using ACT scores, peripheral blood eosinophil count, total IgE levels in serum, spirometry indices
(FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC), and the 6-minute walk distance.
Results:
The average age of participants was 52±12 years, with a predominance of females. The mean asthma control
score was 14.2±4.80, indicating poor asthma control. After 10 days of inhaling corticosteroids combined with hot spring
inhalation post-treatment quality of life increased by 0.5 points, FEV1 improved by 7.5%, FVC by 4.2%, peripheral
blood eosinophil count decreased by 0.3%, and total Ig E levels dropped from 73.3 (22.5; 216) to 73.2 (21.3; 223) u/ml
(p=0.000).
Conclusion
In cases of uncontrolled asthma remission, combining of inhaled corticosteroid therapy with hot spring
inhalation at Shargaljuut improved asthma symptoms, quality of life, enhanced lung function, and reduced inflammatory
markers (p<0.001).
3.Total phenolic content, antioxydant activity of thalictrum squarrosum steph.ex willd.
Tsend-Ayush B ; Solongo Ts ; Nomin M ; Pvrewdorj E ; Enkhjargal D ; Solongo A
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):41-45
Background:
Since ancient times, humans have used medicinal plants for medicinal purposes, and they have been recognized as beneficial to health. The basis of the treatment of these plants is phytochemical substances and in modern times,
with the development of science and technology, the substances contained in these plants are extracted and medicinal
substances and drugs are produced to treat many diseases. There are more than 800 medicinal plants in Mongolia, and
their chemical structure and properties are studied in detail, biological activity and main features are discovered, and new
medicines are produced. From the Thalictrum squarrosum plant, 25 compounds have been identified, such as triterpenoids
with 17 carbon atoms in the cycloartane type ring, saponins, oleic acid glycosides, phytosterols and their glycosides etc.,
and the structures of 7 new compounds have been determined and the research on phenolic compounds and antioxidant
activity has been limited, which is the basis for this research.
Aim:
Determination of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of Thalictrum squarrosum.
Materials and Methods:
Total phenolic compounds were determined spectrophotometrically using Folin-Chicolte color
reagent in 1.0 raw material of the Thalictrum squarrosum. Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH, FRAB and
ABTS in sub-extracts of 4 groups.
Results:
The total phenolic compounds of Thalictrum squarrosum were determined to be 1.9±0.001%. In the study of
biological activity of Thalictrum squarrosum plants, the antioxidant activity of 4 groups of sub-extracts was tested by
DPPH method, and the IC50 of total alkaloids (pH 9-10) was 201.58±0.1 μg/ml, ethyl acetate sub-extract 94.34±0.66
μg/ml, aqueous extract 824.18±0.08 μg/ml, and butanol sub-extract 128.75±0.58 μg/ml. When tested by ABTS method,
the IC50 of total alkaloids (pH 9-10) was 35.83±0.44 μg/ml, ethyl acetate sub-extract 90.45±0.62 μg/ml, aqueous extract
104.19±0.93 μg/ml, dichloromethane sub-extract 156.44±0.48 μg/ml, and butanol sub-extract 170.03±0.61 μg/ml. When
tested for antioxidant activity at 800 μg/ml by the FRAB method, the ethyl acetate sub-extract was 8946.16±14.79 μg/ml,
the dichloromethane sub-extract was 1670.12±39.28 μg/ml, the butanol sub-extract was 4863.97±25.98 μg/ml, and the
total alkaloids (pH 9-10) were 4897.99±58.12 μg/ml.
Conclusion
The ethyl acetate extract of the plant Thalictrum squarrosum has been found to be highly antioxidant active
and total phenolic compound was 1.9±0.001%.
4.Assessing quality of life among patients with pulmonary embolism
Javzan-Orlom D ; Munkh-Erdene D ; Zolzaya B ; Solongo B ; Chuluunbileg B ; Altankhuyag N ; Badamsed Ts ; Tumur-Ochir Ts
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):154-159
Background:
The assessment of patients’ quality of life has emerged as a critical metric in evaluating healthcare services.
Internationally, numerous studies have been conducted to assess the QoL of individuals diagnosed with pulmonary
embolism through the development of standardized questionnaires and their association with various clinical parameters.
Aim:
To adapt a standardized questionnaire for assessing the quality of life following a pulmonary embolism and to evaluate
the quality of life of affected patients.
Materials and Methods:
A total of 33 patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism and hospitalized in the Department
of Pulmonology at the Third State Central Hospital in Mongolia between August 2022 and December 2023 were included
in the study. An observational cross-sectional study design was used. Inclusion criteria encompassed all patients diagnosed
with PE during the study period, while exclusion criteria included individuals with severe comorbidities, those aged
over 85 years, and those who declined participation. QoL was assessed using the Pulmonary Embolism Quality of Life
(PEmb-QoL) questionnaire, which consists of 39 questions categorized into six domains. Higher scores indicate poorer
QoL. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 16.
Results:
The average age of the participants was 61±15 years, and 18 (54.5%) were female. The median duration of anticoagulant
therapy was 170 days (range: 27–2555 days), and the average monthly expenditure on medication was 80,000
MNT (range: 63,000–400,000 MNT). The overall mean QoL score was 69.7±23.2. The median scores for the six domains
were as follows: frequency of complaints 1.6 (IQR 1.5-1.9; max 5 score), activities of daily living limitations 1.5 (1.3–1.8;
max 3 score), work-related problems 1.7 (1.5–2.0; max 2 score), social limitations 2.0 (2.0–3.0; max 5 score), intensity
of complaints 3.0 (3.0–4.0; max 6 score), emotional complaints 2.0 (1.5–2.4; max 6 score). The internal consistency reliability
of the questionnaire was assessed, with the symptom frequency category scoring well (α=0.74), while the other
categories had excellent reliability (α>0.85). A weak positive correlation was observed between overall QoL scores and
age, while a weak negative correlation was identified with body mass index (r=0.14 & r= -0.13, P>0.05).
Conclusion
The study findings indicate a low QoL among PE patients, emphasizing the necessity for enhancements in
post-diagnosis medical care and long-term management strategies to improve patient outcomes.
5.Trifocal intraocular lens implantation to treat visual demands in Mongolian patients
Narangarav G ; Tsendjargal G ; Davaa D ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2023;203(1):17-21
Introduction:
Intraocular lens (IOL) implants are monofocal and trifocal lenses which helps to clear up the vision after cataract surgery.
Goal:
In this work, we aimed to compare the monofocal and trifocal IOL implantation during phacoemulsification surgery.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted on 133 participants. Females comprised n=81, mean n=52 into equal groups. Preoperative and Postoperative cataract surgery UCVA and BCVA were measured and compared during the after 1 day, week 1, 2 weeks and month1.
Statistical analysis:
The results of the study were processed using the SPSS 25.0 program after coding the data and checking for typographical errors. The normality of the data distribution was tested by inspecting a histogram. Categorical variables were compared using the chi-square test or Fisher's test. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value lower than 0.05
Ethical statement:
The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (No.2021/05/21). All patients provided written informed consent before participating in this study.
Results:
The mean preoperative UCVA was 1.09±0.45D in monofocal IOL group, 0.99±0.49D in trifocal IOL group. At the first week: The mean postoperative UCVA at one week was 0.34±0.29D and 0.27±0.17D, in each group respectively. The mean postoperative BCVA in the first week was 0.28±0.27D and 0.20±0.15D in each group respectively. The mean postoperative UCVA at 1 month was 0.27±0.24D and 0.15±0.16D in each group, while BCVA was 0.26±24.94D and 0.06±0.63D.There was a highly significant statistical difference between the result of UCVA preoperative and the results of UCVA at the early and last postoperative follow up.
Conclusion
From our results, the best corrected visual acuity and was better for Trifocal group than Monofocal group. It is evident that post-operative near UCVA and BCVA was statistically significant at monofocal and trifocal groups.
6.Study of exposure and vaccination coverage of the medical students
Yanjindulam B ; Naranzul B ; Ulziisuren B ; Byambasuren S ; Gantsetseg G ; Solongo G ; Narangerel P ; Nyammkhuu D ; Nyamsuren B ; Munkhzul D ; Batchimeg Ch ; Ganchimeg Ch ; Oyunbileg D ; Khosbayar T
Diagnosis 2023;106(3):109-117
Background:
To prevent and combat the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Mongolia has implemented measures such as movement and time restrictions, social distancing and isolation, closure of schools, kindergartens and public places, immunization, and others. It has caused adverse consequences for people, social relations, and the economy, causing health, social, economic, and humanitarian crises. Not only does this situation, medical students, as frontline healthcare workers, are more susceptible to virus infection. Vaccines against COVID-19 have been researched quickly due to the pandemic and are being used under emergency use authorization. In our country the approach of mixing vaccine doses from different manufacturers was used (fractional doses). Therefore, there is no study on the exposure of medical students to the COVID-19 infection and the adverse effects after receiving a dose of a heterologous vaccine. Objective: To study the exposure to the COVID-19 infection and vaccination status of medical students.
Methods:
The survey was conducted from November 2023 to December 2023 using a cross-sectional study design, and 170 students who study at ASUSU and live in the dormitory were included.
Results:
A total of 170 students participated in the study. 55.9% (n=95) of them were in the first year, 22.4% (n=38) were in the second year, 10% (n=17) were in the third year, 7.6% (n=13) were in the fourth year, 2.4% (n=4) were from the 5th year and 1.8% (n=3) were from the 6th year students. 88.2% (n=150) of students were female and 11.8% (n=20) were male. In this study, 37.1% of the students were infected by COVID-19 infection previously. Among them, 50% of the students were infected from family members, 16.7% from the school environment, and 15.2% did not know about the source of infection. 76.2% of the respondents were diagnosed with COVID-19 in a medical institution, and forty-one students answered that they were treated at the hospital. 83% of the cases were treated at home and were cured within 14 days. In contrast, 93.8% of the hospitalized students were treated within four months to 1 year. The current study demonstrates neurological, respiratory, sensory, cardiovascular, psychiatric, digestive, and dermatological symptoms were in 37.6%, 24.1%, 27.6%, 17.6%, 11.8%, 11.2%, and 10% of the students who participated in the study, respectively. For a year or more, symptoms of all organ systems were present, but neurological symptoms appeared to be the highest. 55.9% (n=115) of the enrolled students received 3 or 4 doses of the vaccine, 3.5% (n=6) did not receive the vaccine. In total, 35% (n=60) of the enrolled students experienced side effects and 65% (n=106) had no side effects.
Conclusion
In this study, 37.1% of the students were infected by COVID-19 infection previously. According to the current study, symptoms related to the nervous system was the most prevalent and 55.9% (n=115) of the enrolled students received 3 or 4 doses of the vaccine. In total, 35% (n=60) of the enrolled students experienced side effects.
7.A study of the BALAD model to evaluate the prognosis of liver cancer
Odongoo J ; Solongo E ; Nurlan Kh ; Buyandelger B ; Otgonbyamba D ; Batnasan B ; Bayarmagnai L
Diagnosis 2023;106(3):118-127
Background and Aims:
The BALAD scores are developed to provide an objective determination of prognosis for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by incorporating five serum markers, namely albumin, bilirubin, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), agglutinin-reactive alpha fetoprotein (AFP-L3), and des-γ-carboxy prothrombin. We aim to study the applicability of BALAD score and prognostication of the three tumor markers, albumin and bilirubin.
Methods:
Patients who were served by clinical laboratory were prospectively enrolled. All the baseline characteristics and serum albumin and bilirubin level were documented at base line. The levels of the three tumor markers (AFP, AFP-L3, and des-γ-carboxy prothrombin) were determined in serum samples. assays of AFP, AFP-L3, and DCP were conducted in the same serum sample by using a microchip capillary electrophoresis and liquid phase binding assay on a μTAS Wako i30 analyzer (Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd, Osaka, Japan). To detect albumin and bilirubin amount were using the cobas 6000 analyzer series that is a fully automated, software-controlled system for immunoassay and photometric analysis intended for qualitative and quantitative in vitro determinations.
Results:
A total of 103 patients who were served by clinical laboratory were recruited. AFP, albumin, bilirubin, DCP and AFP-L3 levels were independent prognostic factors. When the study participants evaluated BALAD scores, 45.63% scored 0 points, 28.16% scored 1 point, 10.68% scored 2 points, 8.74% scored 3 points, 3.88% scored 4 points, 1.94% 5 points, and 0.97% 7 points.
Conclusion
BALAD score is applicable in the population of hepatitis B and C virus related HCC. When AFP L3% increases by one unit, BALAD scores are 0.04 times higher (P=0.0001) that is presenting statistically significance.
8.Determination of concentrations of indoor air pollutants emitted from briquette combustion
Oyun-Erdene O ; Chinzorig B ; Barkhasragchaa B ; Tumendelger D ; Solongo Ch ; Anu B ; Burmaajav B ; Suvd B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2022;199(1):53-61
Introduction:
This field assessment was performed to ensure the effective implementation of Order No. A/142 of the Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia dated 30th December 2021 and Order No. A/01 of the Head of the National Committee for Reducing Environmental Pollution dated 3rd January 2022 and to monitor the level of indoor air pollutants emitted from traditional stoves and standard stoves.
Purpose:
To determine the level of indoor air pollutants emitted from briquette combustion and to develop recommendations by comparing various types of stoves and dwellings.
Materials and Methods:
Through analytical cross-sectional designs, three households from Songinokhairkhan district and one household from Chingeltei district were selected to participate in this assessment as they use briquettes for heating, vary in their dwelling types (ger (traditional Mongolian tent), house) and their stove types (traditional, standard), stay home during the day and chose to participate in the assessment. 24-hour continuous measurements were conducted for each dwelling and before taking measurements, we calibrated and adjusted the air suction velocity of the measuring instrument at the Central Metrology Laboratory. The monitor was placed at a distance of 0.5m from the stove and a height of 0.5-1.0m from the floor. The results were then compared with the Mongolian National Standard “General air quality and technical requirements MNS4585:2016” and WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality 2021. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 24.0 software, mean, ANOVA test, and if the p-value is less than 0.05, our results are statistically significant.
Results:
The concentration level of SO2 in houses with “Dul” stoves was within the level specified in the Mongolian standard MNS4585: 2016 and WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality 2021, while 24-hour SO2 concentration in gers and houses with traditional stoves was 1.3-2.92 times higher than the standards. The 24-hour average concentration of nitrogen dioxide in houses with traditional stoves was 1.73 times higher than the Mongolian air quality standard MNS4585: 2016. There were statistically significant differences in the emission levels of SO2 and NO2 depending on dwelling and stove types (df=4, f=4.04, p=0.008 and df=4, f=17.17, p=0.001, respectively.). The 8-hour average (10,000 μg/m3) CO concentration was statistically significant for various types of dwellings and stoves (df=4, f=45.17, p=0.001), whereas there was a statistically significant difference in CO concentrations in gers with traditional stoves and gers with standard stoves in terms of morning, afternoon, and evening hours (df=3, f=33.17, p=0.001).
Conclusion
Indoor air pollutants in the households except for houses with “Dul” stoves have been determined to exceed the air quality standards set by the Mongolian air quality standards and WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality 2021.
9.Study of chloroformic fraction of bassia dasyphylla (fisch. Et mey.) Ktze. By gas chromatography mass spectrometric method
Solongo T ; Gerelt-Od Ya ; Dumaa M ; Batsuren D ; Tunsag J
Mongolian Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2020;17(2):43-48
Abstract
Chloroformic fraction from the aerial parts of Bassia dasyphylla (fisch. et mey.) ktze. growing in Mongolia have been studied by means of Gas Chromatography Mass spectrometry method. Benzyl alcohol, phenol 2-methoxy, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, 2-propenoicacid, 3- (2-hydroxyphenol)-,(E), Ibuprofen methyl ester, 3’,5’-dimethoxyacetophenone, 3-hydroxy-β-damascone, megastigmatrienone, 5-hydroxy-7-methoxy-2-(p-methoxyphenyl) -6,8-dimethyl-4-chromanon 18 compounds were determined and found for the first time from this plant species.
10.Studies on structure and maturation of the ovaries in girls
Solongo O ; Bolorzaya Ts ; Ariungerel G ; Myadagmaa D ; Enkhee N ; Dagdanbazar B
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2018;185(3):132-137
Since a human being was born, female reproductive organs, particularly the structure and function
of the ovaries are constantly changing. The findings of overseas studies referred hereunder show
that the ovarian follicular growth and atresia in young girls occur simultaneously, continuously and
actively. The histopathology and ultrasound examination of the ovaries in girls were similar in principles. We found that ovarian maturation is influenced by hormonal stimulation, not only by age. In
the most of the study, ovarian follicles were divided into two groups; as micro-cysts (<9mm) and
macro-cysts (>9mm).
In every country, physical development of inhabitants shall be researched academically in every 5 to
10 years, comparing to geography, nature, weather conditions, culture, occupation and livelihood of local residents, in connection with the social and economic development of the country; urban and
rural areas. In the studies regarding physical growth and development of Mongolian children’s body, structure and maturation of the ovaries in girls have not been determined. However, in 1996, Tuul M.
studied ovarian measurements in Mongolian adults sampling organs from cadavers. Fundamental
research determining the characteristic of ovarian structure and maturation in Mongolian girls and
comparing results with an onset of puberty is needed to be developed.
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