Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) causes one of the most important inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system, namely severe encephalitis in Europe and Asia. Since the 1980s tick-borne encephalitis is known in Mongolia with increasing numbers of human cases reported during the last years. So far, however, data on TBEV strains are still sparse. We herein report the isolation of a TBEV strain from Ixodes persulcatus ticks collected in Mongolia in 2010. Phylogenetic analysis of the E-gene classified this isolate as Siberian subtype of TBEV. The Mongolian TBEV strain showed differences in virus titers, plaque sizes, and growth properties in two human neuronal cell-lines. In addition, the 10,242 nucleotide long open-reading frame and the corresponding polyprotein sequence were revealed. The isolate grouped in the genetic subclade of the Siberian subtype. The strain Zausaev (AF527415) and Vasilchenko (AF069066) had 97 and 94 % identity on the nucleotide level. In summary, we herein describe first detailed data regarding TBEV from Mongolia. Further investigations of TBEV in Mongolia and adjacent areas are needed to understand the intricate dispersal of this virus.

2016-12-23T18:44:59

Introduction: Bornuur and Jargalant districts are sites with relatively long history of artisanal gold mining. The findings of this study are presented in the context of previous mercury exposure assessment conducted in 2008 by the WHO. This article summarizes the assessment of environmental and occupational exposure to mercury in the region following recent implementation of National Mercury Risk Management policies. Methods: A total of 79 blood and urine samples were analyzed for mercury content and grouped as: (1) as occupational exposure for high and medium values and (2) as an environmental exposure for low values. Mongolian background values for mercury content in blood and urine were used as a control. Internal mercury content distributions of the subgroups were compared using statistical tests. Results: The study revealed substantial reduction of mercury urine levels for both occupational

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