Siberian Journal of Life Sciences and Agriculture

Effects of phytobiotic feed additives on productivity and gut microbiota of common carp

2025-08-30T00:46:16+07:00

Background. The use of phytobiotics in feeding may be a promising approach to control animal diseases without antibiotics.

The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of phytobiotic feed additives on the growth performance and on gut microbiome of common carp.

Materials and methods. The paper presents the results of a study on the use of phytobiotic feed additives in carp feeding: "Intebio" – an additive based on a mixture of essential oils (garlic, lemon, thyme and eucalyptus) and "Butitan" - a balanced microencapsulated combination of ellagotannins (sweet chestnut wood extract).

Results. When the studied additives were included in the diet of fish, a growth-stimulating effect was established: with the inclusion of "Butitan" by 11.7% (P≤0.05), and with "Intebio" by 8.8% (P≤0.05), relative to the control. The introduction of phytobiotic feed additives "Butitan" and "Intebio" into the diet of carp had a significant effect on the gut microbiome of fish. A decrease in the number of bacteria of phylum Actinomycetota, Bacillota and Bacteroidota and an increase in the content of microorganisms of taxa Pseudomonadota and Fusobacteriota (genus Cetobacterium) were found, which was reflected in the change in the number of microorganisms of Microbacteriaceae, Chitinophagaceae, and unclassified_Bacillota families. The analysis of the sequencing results showed that the impact of "Intebio" led to a change in the dominant genera of bacteria in the gut microbiota of fish. Numerous groups were bacteria of the genus Aeromonas, the genus Vibrio and the genus Cetobacterium.

Conclusion. The results obtained showed that the inclusion of "Butitan" and "Intebio" in the diet of carp has a positive effect on the indicators of body weight gain and can potentially be used as a basis for drugs to modify the gut microbiota.

Sponsorship information. The research was made with the financial support of the Russian Science Foundation No. 23-76-10054.

EDN: TROYTR

Assessment of the relationship between the level of somatotropin in hair and meat qualities of Hereford bulls

2025-08-30T00:45:12+07:00

Background. The issue of using hair as an indicator of long-term changes in somatotropin metabolism in the body of young bulls has not been sufficiently addressed. Moreover, there is almost no information on the relationship between the somatotropin level in hair and the meat qualities of young bulls, which determined the relevance of this study.

Objective is to study the effect of the somatotropin exchange pool, estimated by its concentration in hair on the meat qualities of the Hereford bulls.

Materials and methods. The studies were performed on the Hereford bulls. Animals were divided into three groups depending on the somatotropin level in hair: I - (53.4-57.1 pg / mg); II - (57.3 to 61.8 pg / mg); III - (62.1 to 67.1 pg / mg).

Results. Bulls with the maximum somatotropin level had the highest rates of weight gain. Animals of this group had higher slaughter weight and meat protein content, with a lower fat content. An increase in the somatotropin concentration in hair was accompanied by an increase in the concentrations of leucine + isoleucine, tryptophan, histidine, methionine, a decrease in phenylalanine and serine, as well as an increase in the concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the longissimus dorsi muscle. The longissimus muscle of bulls with the maximum somatotropin level in hair contained more calcium, copper, zinc and iodine, with relatively low lead concentrations.

Conclusion. The level of somatotropin concentration in hair from the withers is closely related to the intensity of weight growth, meat productivity and meat quality of Hereford bulls, which allows us to consider hair as a biosubstrate for assessing long-term changes in the level of somatotropin in the body, when developing measures aimed at increasing the meat productivity of bulls.

EDN: ZTSHVA

The influence of different processing methods on the phytochemical composition of leaves and cones of common hop (Humulus lupulus L.)

2025-08-30T01:30:37+07:00

Background. It has been established for a long time that medicinal plants contain a large number of active compounds that are used to treat many diseases. For the first time, a comparative study of the leaves and cones of common hops was conducted for the accumulation of phytochemical compositions. Commercial preparations of growth biostimulants (gibbersib, epin-extra) and bio-fertilizer (pudret) were selected. It was established that hops grown in the conditions of Tatarstan have a rich phytochemical composition and a high content of bioactive substances. can be recommended as a resource that will allow the pharmacological industry to use the highest quality raw materials.

Purpose. Conduct a comparative analysis of the phytochemical composition in the leaves and cones of common hop (Humulus lupulus L.) under different processing methods.

Materials and methods. Planting of rhizomatous hop cuttings was carried out at the beginning of May 2023 in protected soil under laboratory conditions. According to the experimental design, rhizome cuttings were planted in pots with soil to which pudret was added (bio-fertilizer from bird droppings dried in microwave rays, consisting of 88.4% organic matter, 4.59% nitrogen, 1.80% potassium, 3.70% phosphorus) at the rate of 10 g/kg of soil, in the second variant, rhizomatous hop cuttings were treated with gibbersib (666.6 μg/l) by spraying, and in the third variant they were treated with epin-extra (500 μl/l) also by spraying.

After 4 weeks, all variants and also the control were transplanted into open ground (soil acidity was 6.9, organic matter content (humus) 1.96%, nitrate nitrogen content 35.5 mg/kg, ammonia nitrogen 11.3 mg/kg, available phosphorus 584 mg/kg, the amount of exchangeable calcium was 13.25 mmol/100 g and exchangeable magnesium 1.5 mmol/100 g).

Samples for analysis (leaves and cones) were taken 12 weeks after planting in open ground (average night temperature was +14⁰С).

The phytochemical composition in the leaves and buds was determined by spectrophotometric methods described in a study by Al Hussain et al (2023).

The experiments were carried out in six biological replicates. Statistical processing of the data was carried out using Excel 2016. The significance of the difference was determined using the Mann-Whitney test with р ≤ 0.05.

Results. Epin-extra increased the content of flavonoids, tannins and vitamin B2 to a greater extent, gibbersib increased the content of phenolic compounds, carotenoids, sugars and proteins, and powder increased the content of vitamin C, carotenoids, vitamin B2 and proteins.

Conclusion. Our research shows that hop extracts have a wider potential for use in medicine and food technology than just fermentation, and this is due to the possibility of improving the content of useful primary and secondary substances using synthetic growth regulators and bio-fertilizers. A large number of hop leaves remain an unused agricultural by-product, but our research has proven the possibility of using hop leaves as a source of primary and secondary metabolites in medicine (as a sedative, antimicrobial, diuretic, anti-inflammatory agent in the treatment of gastritis, cystitis, urethritis, kidney diseases, liver and gall bladder) and food industry (brewing industry, bakery production).

EDN: ZXTFKS

Genotyping of Gleditsia triacanthos L. based on RbcL gene expression and using ISSR markers in arid climate conditions

2025-08-30T02:04:28+07:00

Background. Fighting against desertification is one of the priorities in the world. Gleditsia triacanthos L. is a promising species for afforestation as it has high drought resistance. Genotyping of G. triacanthos has not been previously conducted based on the study of photosynthetic productivity by evaluating the expression of the large subunit gene of RuBisCo - RbcL and linking it to ISSR markers.

Purpose. To conduct the genotyping of individuals in the G. triacanthos population by evaluation the quantitative expression of the large subunit gene of RuBisCo - RbcL and their linkage to ISSR markers.

Materials and methods. The study was carried out at the arboretum of the FSC of agroecology RAS, where 10 individuals of G. triacanthos in good vital state were selected. The expression of RbcL was evaluated using RT-PCR. ISSR analysis was performed to examine the genetic structure of the studied G. triacanthos individuals. Statistical analysis of experimental data was performed using the software package Statistica 12.0 (StatSoft, USA) and POPGENE version 1.31.

Results. Based on the results of the RbcL expression evaluation, individuals with different transcriptional activity were identified: 20% of G. triacanthos individuals had high expression, 40% had moderate expression, and 40% had low expression. Effective primers from the UBC group, 836 and 873, were identified during ISSR analysis in G. triacanthos individuals. Genotyping by ISSR revealed two groups of G. triacanthos individuals with high and low RbcL expression.

Conclusion. The acquired data can potentially be used in molecular breeding of G. Triacanthos to obtain not only drought-resistant genotypes, but also genotypes with high photosynthetic productivity to address agroforestry tasks.

EDN: WKRCPL

Dynamics of heavy metals content in the Irtysh River water during the open water period within the boundaries of Omsk Region

2025-08-30T02:39:34+07:00

Background. The relevance of the work is due to the need to monitor the water quality of the trans-boundary Irtysh River subjected to intensive anthropogenic impact and to identify patterns of changes in the concentrations of heavy metals (Fe_total, Zn²⁺, Cu²⁺, Mn²⁺, Hg²⁺) during the open water period within the boundaries of the Omsk region. The novelty of the research is due to the lack of current data on the content of heavy metals in the Irtysh River water in the Omsk region.

Purpose. To estimate the level of heavy metals content in the Irtysh River water and to establish their dynamics during the period of open water within the boundaries of the Omsk region.

Materials and methods. Materials of hydrochemical analysis of the Irtysh River in the territory of Omsk region in the period of open water (May-October) 2023 were used in the article. Sampling was carried out once a month from the surface water layer (0-0.2 m) by sampler in 15 points along the river. A total of 90 water samples were collected and analyzed during the study period. Hydrochemical analysis was carried out in the accredited laboratory of FGBU "Center for Laboratory Analysis and Technical Measurements in the Siberian Federal District" (Omsk) for 6 indicators: Fe_total, Zn²⁺, Cu²⁺, Mn²⁺, Hg²⁺. Concentrations of Fe_total, Zn, Cu, Mn were determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, Hg – by atomic emission method.

Results. The average monthly values of maximum permissible concentrations for fishery waters were found to be exceeded for a number of indicators: Fe – 1.4-5.3 times, Zn – 1.1-7.6 times, Cu – 2.0-5.0 times, Mn – 1.2-1.9 times. Average monthly concentrations of mercury did not exceed the normative values. Concentrations of Fe, Cu and Mn depended on the season of the year - maximum values were observed in spring floods. During the summer-autumn low water period the concentrations of these elements decreased. For Zn ions no clear patterns in the change of content in natural waters by seasons of the year were revealed.

Conclusion. Dynamics of heavy metal content (Fe_total, Zn²⁺, Cu²⁺, Mn²⁺, Hg²⁺) in the Irtysh River water during the period of open water in 2023 within the boundaries of the Omsk region is determined by the interaction of anthropogenic and natural factors. Concentrations of the mentioned heavy metal ions, except for mercury, along the whole course of the river within the boundaries of the Omsk region exceed MPC_fish. Water quality does not meet hygienic standards.

Sponsorship information. The study was supported by the grant of JSC «RosSelkhozbank» (RSHB-009-40/39-2023).

EDN: WVFHBJ

Quality improvement bioassay procedure in specialized laboratories

2025-08-30T03:24:23+07:00

Обоснование. В методологии биотестирования остаются проблемными вопросы поиска целевых биотестов, количества оцениваемых тест-функций организмов, а также поддержания чувствительности тест-культуры в диапазоне, заданном методикой.

Целью исследования было обобщение научных подходов, способствующих повышению качества процедур биотестирования и их результатов: выбор наиболее подходящих методик, поддержание качества лабораторной культуры, реализация системного биотестирования с использованием нескольких конечных точек одного организма.

Методы исследования. В течение 2006-2024 гг. велись научно-исследовательские работы в лаборатории биотестирования Вятского государственного университета (г. Киров, Россия), по результатам которых далее были предложены научно обоснованные подходы повышения качества процедур биотестирования.

Результаты. В работе предложены три направления повышения качества процедур биотестирования для специализированных лабораторий. Алгоритм выбора метода биотестирования должен основываться на определении чувствительности доступных методов анализа. Подход работает, когда известны основные загрязнители (приоритетные токсиканты). Кроме того, рекомендуется проводить регулярный внутрилабораторный контроль качества тест-культуры, включающий оценку чувствительности организмов к эталонному токсиканту и набор показателей жизнедеятельности. Для многоклеточных организмов это средняя продолжительность жизни, начало размножения, суточный прирост смертности и т.д.; для одноклеточных – прирост биомассы или количества клеток. Затем, для прогноза воздействие загрязнения на окружающую среду, рекомендуется оценить несколько конечных точек воздействия на один стандартизированный вид.

Выводы. Реализация концепции «обоснованный выбор методов + качество тест-культуры + оценка спектра реакций организма» позволит сэкономить трудовые и временные ресурсы, получить воспроизводимые результаты, что особенно важно в условиях длительного экологического мониторинга.

EDN: WVTHLI

Vermitransformation of biodegradable disposable tableware

2025-08-30T03:58:35+07:00

Background. The recycling efficiency of disposable tableware can be increased with the help of vermiculture. The optimization of the substrate composition on the basis of the potential toxicity of biodegradable tableware and the use of earthworm prefererence reaction is necessary.

Purpose. The aim of this study was to test the potential toxicity of water extracts from biodegradable tableware sold on the Irkutsk market and find the optimal feed mixtures for tableware vermiculture.

Materials and methods. Disposable sugar cane and corn starch tableware were used in the study (Green Mystery, Eco Friendly, etc.). The level of toxicity of the water extracts of the biodegradable samples was measured using the test-objects: small duckweed (Lemna minor L.), the seeds of Lepidium sativum and terrestrial oligochaetes (Eisenia foetida andrei Bouche). Mature worms were put into the substrate to assess the ability of E. foetida to process biodegradable disposable sugar cane tableware.

Results. Biodegradable disposable sugar cane tableware accounts for 23.5 % of the Irkutsk market. Biotesting conducted on the test plants has revealed the safety of sugar cane tableware. The growth rate of duckweed fronds has increased by 5.7-6.3%, there has been an increase by 1.8% in the aqueous corn starch extract. The experiment on oligochaete survival has proved the safety of sugar cane tableware (100 % survival). Corn starch tableware has shown a little toxicity. The length of the sprouts of L. sativum has decreased and made up 20±1.2%, 33±3.5% of earthworms of E. foetida used in biotesting on earthworms were unviable. After earthworm incubation in the substrate with sugar cane tableware the number of young earthworms has gone up by 69.2±3.0%, the cocoons – 154.5±4.5%.

Conclusion. Biodegradable disposable sugar cane tableware can be used for vermitransformation.

Sponsorship information. The study was conducted within the framework of the budget project № 121032900077-4 «Ecological diagnostics of changes in some elements of biogeocenoses in the territory of East Siberia».

EDN: UTINNW

Use of ICE index for satellite monitoring of irrigation massifs and land condition

2025-08-30T11:52:21+07:00

Background. Globally, about half of the world's crops are cultivated under irrigation, which affects the climate of the fields and can also increase the comfort of the environment for humans. The development of satellite technologies has opened up opportunities for rapid and low-cost monitoring of the Irrigation Cooling Effect (ICE). This area of research is in its infancy, which predetermines the relevance of identifying the current trend of its development.

Purpose. To analyze scientific literature in the field of ICE satellite index use for irrigated lands monitoring, to identify main directions of development and research centers.

Materials and methods. Information from the Scopus and RSCI databases was used as the main source of information. The case study demonstrates the relationship between ICE and NDVI for the XUAR irrigated area in the PRC.

Results. Analysis of primary literature sources has shown that at present ICE is used mainly to assess the cooling effect of irrigated crop and its water consumption, the cooling effect of urban vegetation, and to assess the impact of land cover change on local and regional climate. The main research centers are scientific organizations of China and the USA, which is confirmed by the number of scientific publications and amount of their citations. A promising direction is the use of ICE for operational satellite monitoring of crops (including rain-fed crops).

Conclusion. Thus, ICE can be regarded as a useful complement to the NDVI index commonly used in satellite crop monitoring, which causes the increasing use of this index in the world, especially for irrigated land monitoring.

EDN: UWOZGV

Assessment of the level of oxidative modification of proteins adapted milk mixtures

2025-09-02T01:33:21+07:00

Background. Recently, the determination of the level of carbonyl derivatives has been used in the study of food products. However, to increase sensitivity and specificity, it is necessary to compare different criteria for oxidative damage to milk proteins.

The purpose of the study is to compare the informative significance of indicators of the intensity of oxidative destruction of proteins of various adapted milk mixtures.

Materials and methods. Various adapted milk mixtures based on cow's and goat's milk were used as the material.

To assess the level of protein carbonyl derivatives, the Reznick A.Z. & Parker L. method and the method of complex assessment of the content of carbonyl derivatives, with the calculation of the reserve potential were used (Fomina M.A. et al. 2014).

Results. The calculation of the reserve potential (RP), carried out after the determination of spontaneous and iron-induced oxidation, made it possible to establish its increase (by 5-10%) in all dairy mixtures based on cow's milk in comparison with ultrapasteurized milk. An increase in the overall level of reserve potential is manifested by aldehyde-dinitrophenylhydrazones. A similar increase in the overall level of reserve potential is observed in adapted milk mixtures made on the basis of goat's milk in comparison with the indicator of ultra-pasteurized milk.

Differences in the ratio of aldehyde and ketone derivatives in adapted milk mixtures 1 and 2 based on cow's milk and in goat's milk mixtures have been established.

Conclusion. The determination of the reserve potential made it possible to identify adapted milk mixtures with the highest and lowest levels of this indicator, characterizing the resistance of proteins to the effects of the usual level of oxidants, for additional characteristics of the biological value of the product.

EDN: VOJPIM

Antibacterial activity of green synthesized silver nanoparticles using aqueous extract of Aeluropus litoralis and their anticancer and antioxidant properties

2025-09-02T02:09:22+07:00

Background. The biosynthesis of nanoparticles using plant extracts offers an eco-friendly and cost-effective method for producing stable nanoparticles with various applications in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.

Purpose. To investigate the ability of Aeluropus littoralis aqueous extract to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and of antibacterial activity, anticancer and antioxidant properties.

Materials and methods. A. littoralis aerial parts were washed, dried, and ground. Extract was prepared by boiling 7 g in 100 mL water, filtered, and dried. Aelu-AgNPs were biosynthesized by mixing extract with AgNO₃, incubating until color change, then centrifuging and washing. Nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, and zeta potential. Antibacterial activity was tested against MDR bacteria using agar diffusion, MIC, and MBC assays. Cytotoxicity was evaluated with MTT on cancer and normal cells. Antioxidant activity was measured by DPPH assay. Data analysis used SPSS and GraphPad Prism.

Results. The aqueous extract of A. littoralis operated as a reducing agent for AgNO₃, resulting in the formation of AgNPs (Aelu-AgNPs), which was confirmed by spectroscopy at the greatest peak of 410 nm. Based on FESEM analysis, the Aelu-AgNPs were around 41.43 nm in size. The XRD study demonstrated a face-centered cubic structure, whereas zeta potential assessment suggested significant stability at -40.4 mV. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Citrobacter freundii, Proteus mirabilis, Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli, Providencia rettgeri, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, S. haemolyticus, S. epidermidis, S. hominis, and Enterococcus faecium were all proven to be susceptible to the Aelu-AgNPs. Among the bacteria tested, P. mirabilis showed the most sensitivity, with a 19.5 mm inhibition zone. The MIC ranged from 62.5 to 7.8 µg/ml and the MBC from 62.5 to 15.6 µg/ml for all the bacterial isolates that were examined. The results showed that the Aelu-AgNPs had a potential antioxidant activity higher than ascorbic acid at a concentration of 12.5 μg/ml. The MTT assay validated superior efficacy in inhibiting the A375 cancer cell line with an IC₅₀ of 71.04 μg/ml, in contrast to 148.6 μg/ml of the normal cell line (HdFn).

Conclusion: The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles obtained from A. littoralis extract exhibit potential as antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer agents.

EDN: RHIAYC

The eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Maranta leuconeura ethanolic extract with the assessment of antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer activities

2025-09-02T02:47:39+07:00

Background. Considering the significant interest in the use of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) obtained from plant extracts.

Purpose. The study is aimed to utilize the ethanolic extract of Maranta leuconeura as a reducing agent to form AgNPs, and evaluate its biological potential effect.

Materials and methods. The plant was extracted using 70% ethanol to create silver nanoparticles.The synthesis of AgNPs was initially confirmed by surface plasmon resonance at 400 nm, facilitated by biologically active compounds that contributed to reduction, capping, and stabilization, as evidenced by FTIR analysis, while zeta potential analysis indicated good stability at -37.1 mV. The fabricated AgNPs microscopic study revealed spherical particles of average sizes 39.9 nm, whereas XRD analysis indicated a face-centred cubic (FCC) crystalline nature.

Results and discussion. The antibacterial efficacy of AgNPs against tested isolates indicated that Staphylococcus epidermidis and Proteus mirabilis exhibited the highest sensitivity to silver nanoparticles, with an average inhibition zone measuring 14.4 mm. The results of the antioxidant activity demonstrated comparable radical scavenging to ascorbic acid, depending on the concentration. The evaluation of cytotoxicity against cancer SiHa cell line and normal HdFn cell line, revealed a concentration-dependent effect and potential anticancer impact, with an IC₅₀ of 17.49 and 125 μg/ml for SiHa and HdFn respectively.

Conclusion. Nanoparticles produced from Maranta leuconeura leaf extract may be significant in medicinal applications owing to their distinctive features.

EDN: RZPONV

Identification of the carriers of the mutant alleles in the cattle in the Central Black Earth region of Russia using NGS sequencing

2025-09-02T06:37:00+07:00

Background. To carry out high-quality breeding work in the cattle populations, it is necessary to use next generation sequencing (NGS) methods, which allow large samples of the animals to be assessed for a significant number of the single nucleotide substitutions (SNPs) in a short period of time.

Materials and methods. Genotyping of the Holstein black-and-white cattle bred in the Central Black Earth region of Russia (Belgorod region) was carried out using NGS sequencing (multilocus panel TruSeq® Bovine Parentage Kit, Illumina USA).

Results. It was found that most of the animals studied are the inter-line hybrids. Correlation analysis of the "Reflection Sovereign", "Montvik Chieftain" and "Vis Back Ideal" lines showed no correlation dependency (r=0,165, p=0,106). Additionally, 10,4% of the cattle were carriers of the gene related to the Holstein red-and-white coat color. Furthermore, 61,5% of the cattle were carriers of the mutant allele G (_SNPchr8_108833985), which lowers immunity and contributes to the development of moraxellosis. Carriers of several unfavorable mutations were identified, such as Syndactyly (SY) – 8,3%, mutations leading to leukism (MITF gene) – 12,3%, and mutations in the melanocortin receptor gene (MC1R) – 10,4%. Carriers of the semi-lethal mutation (allele T) in the APAF1 gene accounted for 3,0% of the cattle, carriers of the lethal mutation (allele C) in the HH3 gene – 14,6%, carriers of the lethal mutation (allele C) in the HHB (BLAD) gene – 1,0%, carriers of the semi-lethal mutation (allele A) in the SLC35A3 gene – 2,0%. All this indicates errors in the breeding work. Against the backdrop of these unfavorable genetic factors, carriers of mutations with a positive effect on meat and milk productivity were observed, namely carriers of the MSTN gene mutation (allele T) – 50%, carriers of the ABCG2 gene mutation (allele C) – 4.2%, carriers of the DGAT1 gene mutation (allele A) – 28,1%, carrier of the CSN1S1 gene mutation (allele A) – 1,0%.

Conclusion. We believe that adjusting the breeding work regarding these mutations, both with negative and positive effects, will allow farms to create core herds of high-productivity animals, which will contribute to increasing the quantity and quality of dairy products.

EDN: RCSHPU

The results of the study of the effects of glyphosate and antibiotics on the composition and functions of the intestinal microbiome of broilers

2025-09-02T15:21:59+07:00

Background. The combined effect of residual amounts of pesticides and antibiotics in poultry feed can lead to a negative effect on the composition of the intestinal microbiome of livestock.

Purpose. To analyze changes in the composition of broilers intestinal cecum microbiome under the influence of glyphosate in an amount of 1 MPC for food products in isolation and with a combination of glyphosate with antibiotics and an anticoccidial drug.

Materials and methods. The experimental birds were divided into 4 groups: Group I - control, which received the basic diet (BD), experimental group II - BD with the addition of glyphosate; III experimental - BD with the addition of glyphosate and veterinary antibiotics; IV experimental - BD with the addition of glyphosate and anticoccidial drug. The composition of bacteria was determined by NGS sequencing on a MiSeq automatic sequencer (Illumina, Inc., USA). PICRUSt2 (v.2.3.0) software (https://github.com/picrust/picrust2) was used to perform functional activity prediction of the metagenome, gene families, and proteins.

Results. The results showed that under the influence of glyphosate (experimental group II), on the 7th and 40th days of life of broilers, microorganisms of the phylum Proteobacteria were completely eliminated from the community of microorganisms in the chyme of the intestinal cecum; on the 14th day, their content decreased by 3 .7 times compared to control group I (P≤0.05). In groups III and IV, their number increased compared to group II to 3.1 and 7.9 times, respectively (P≤0.05). At 7 days of age in experimental group II, as well as at 7-40 days of age in experimental group III, the number of Ruminococcaceae and Oscillospiraceae bacteria decreased to 10.3 and 11.8%, respectively, compared to control group I (P≤0. 05). Changes in the composition of microbial taxa under the influence of pesticides and medicinal substances introduced into feed led to changes in 185 potential functional pathways (P≤0.05). Thus, the activity of the pathways of energy, carbohydrate, protein metabolism, fat metabolism, biosynthesis of coenzymes and cofactors, vitamins decreased in experimental groups II-IV compared to control group I (P≤0.05).

Conclusion. Our data indicate that during the experimental contamination of feed with the herbicide glyphosate, the introduction of veterinary antibiotics and anticoccidial drug into the feed in the caeca of the intestines of broiler chickens, changes in the structure of the microbiome occurred already at high taxonomic levels, and critical inhibition was also observed important potentially underlying functional pathways. This can negatively affect the host's body.

EDN: ODFQOK

“Probable acetyltransferase” TTHA1209 Thermus thermophilus bacteria: Gene cloning, structural and functional analysis of the enzyme

2025-09-02T22:28:31+07:00

Background. In the last decade, bacterial N-acetyltransferases (ATs) have been intensively studied because they are involved in the biosynthesis/inactivation of antibiotics, form the “toxin-antitoxin” system and the acetylation status of proteins and peptides influences their virulence and pathogenicity. AT enzymes have a low percentage of amino acid sequence identity, which complicates their identification and annotation in genomes. In this regard, the aim of this work was the structural and functional analysis of a new “probable” acetyltransferase encoded by the open reading frame (ORF) TTHA1209 of the bacterium T. thermophilus.

Materials and methods. Structural analysis of the enzyme was carried out using bioinformatics methods. Genetic engineering methods were used to clone the TTHA1209 gene. Affinity chromatography was used to purify the protein. The protein activity was tested in an in vitro reaction of acetylation of the model protein parvalbumin (PA). The incorporation of an acetyl group at the N-terminus of PA was evaluated by mass spectrometry.

Results. It was found that TTHA1209 share single GNAT domain in its structure and exhibits the alternation of secondary structure elements and three-dimensional folding characteristic of N-terminal At (NAT). The similarity of the structure of the TTHA1209 enzyme with orthologous proteins from E. coli was investigated. The highest percentage identity of TTHA1209 is observed with the RimI enzyme (27%). It has been shown that the TTHA1209 enzyme acetylates parvalbumin, i.e. has a specific Nα-acetyltransferase activity.

Conclusion. The new enzyme TTHA1209 from the bacterium T. thermophilus exhibits properties characteristic of NAT at all levels of organization, has a specific activity and can be annotated in the genome as an N-terminal acetyltransferase. The results obtained create the prerequisites for further investigation of the substrate specificity and biochemical properties of the new NAT TTHA1209, which will open up prospects for its use in biotechnology for the acetylation of proteins and peptides.

EDN: PJYJXI

SPECIES IDENTIFICATION OF BACTERIA OF THE GENUS CLOSTRIDIUM, ISOLATED FROM CATTLE, BY MULTIPLEX REAL-TIME PCR

2025-09-02T23:31:51+07:00

Background. Diseases caused by clostridia are widespread in cattle. In addition to pathogenic clostridia, non-pathogenic species are constantly living in the organism of animals, and to make a correct diagnosis it is necessary to differentiate isolated cultures of these bacteria. A promising direction for solving this problem is the search for highly specific and sensitive methods of genetic analysis. Based on the application of real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which makes it possible to detect and determine the species affiliation of microorganisms in a short period of time.

Purpose. To develop a multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction for the detection of toxigenic Clostridium species: Clostridium sporogenes, Clostridium perfringens and Clostridium sordellii in mixed and pure bacterial cultures, to determine its sensitivity and specificity.

Materials and methods. In our studies we used samples of biological material from sick animals, from which clostridia cultures were isolated on artificial nutrient media with their subsequent identification based on the results of culture and biochemical properties. Primers and probes were designed using the PrimerQuest tool, and then the sensitivity and specificity of PCR were determined using reference strains and bacterial isolates.

Results. In the period from 2023 to 2024, 90 samples of biomaterial from cattle collected in livestock farms of the Novosibirsk Region were investigated. As a result of bacteriological studies, 44 isolates of clostridia of nine species of the genus Clostridium were obtained. For the selection of primers and probes, we analysed three pairs of primers and probes, which were used to detect the gerKA gene in C. sporogenes, C. perfringens - plc, C. sordelli - NanS. In addition, a pair of primers was used to detect species of the genus Clostridium by the 16S RNA gene. In order to determine the working concentrations of primers and probes that would provide the necessary sensitivity of the analysis, a series of studies were carried out to optimise the conditions of the analysis. Analysing the results of the studies, we determined the sensitivity of the reaction, which was not less than 102 CFU/ml for pure bacterial cultures of C. sporogenes, C. perfringens and C. sordelli species, and for other species of Clostridia spp. 101 CFU/ml.

Conclusion. The developed multiplex real-time PCR allows short-term diagnosis of bovine clostridiosis and species identification of pathogens. In addition to C. perfringens, C. sporogenes, C. sordellii, other species of Clostridium spp. may be involved in the etiology of bovine clostridiosis. It is necessary to improve diagnostic methods of clostridiosis and expand the range of detectable clostridium species.

Sponsorship information. This work was financially supported by the Russian Science Foundation under the project 23-26-00009 “Species composition and toxigenic properties of clostridia in cattle in the West Siberian region and development of a test system for their rapid identification”.

EDN: PSCOZR

Analysis of gene expression changes in canola in response to inoculation with biotic and abiotic elicitors to Alternaria brassicae

2025-09-03T00:14:16+07:00

Background. Alternaria brassicae is one of the most destructive pathogens of oilseed rape growth and production. Oilseed rape roots treated with biotic and abiotic elicitors have shown resistance to A. brassicae as a result of induced systemic resistance (ISR). In this experiment, we aimed to identify resistance genes in two rapeseed genotypes (Raphanus brassica and Brassica napus).

Methods. Pseudomonas fluorescens PF83 as a biotic elicitor and with Salicylic acid (SA) as an abiotic elicitors were used induced systemic resistance in rapeseed. The expression levels of six defense-related genes (VSP2, MYC2, PR-2, PR-3, PR-4 and PR-5) by Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) at three times 24, 48 and 120 hpi.

Results. VSP2, MYC2, PR-3 and PR-4 gene expression levels increased in infected leaves by A. brassicae and in oilseed genotypes treated by PF83, while the expression levels of PR-2 and PR-5 were increased in leaves treated with SA. The results indicate that the induction of resistance genes depends on the type of elicitor, the biotic and abiotic elicitors interferes with phytohormones SA- and JA-pathways to A. brassicae, through the increase in the transcription of resistance-related genes. The abiotic elicitor is key to inducing resistance genes associated with SA-pathways, while the biotic elicitor is key to inducing resistance genes associated with JA-pathways. The results of our study provide a new understanding of the control mechanisms of A. brassica.

Conclusion. This study provides a new understanding of the control mechanisms of A. brassica. The abiotic elicitor is key to inducing resistance genes associated with SA-pathways, while the biotic elicitor is key to inducing resistance genes associated with JA-pathways. This study explained, that the RR genome is responsible for disease resistance in oilseed R. brassica (AARR) to infection processes of A. brassicae, so we recommend that using R. brassica as resistance genotype to produce oilseed.

EDN: PTWHNI

Product quality of different cucumber hybrids (Cucumis sativus L.) depending on the fruiting period and sowing time in greenhouses

2025-09-03T01:15:26+07:00

Background. In greenhouses in the Lipetsk region they grow cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, but cucumber is the main vegetable in winter, occupying 70-80% of the area. In the conditions of the Lipetsk region, for 5th generation greenhouses, insufficient work has been done to determine the best hybrid, sowing dates and quality indicators of products in order to increase their profitability. Modern technology for industrial production of cucumbers involves growing high-yielding varieties and hybrids, to which advanced innovative technologies must be applied, taking into account the full use of all resources while simultaneously reducing material costs, high quantity and quality of manufactured products.

Purpose. The objective of the study was to study the comparative characteristics of different cucumber hybrids for greenhouses with a year-round cultivation cycle in terms of the yield of high-quality and cheaper products depending on the sowing dates in the conditions of central Russia (Lipetsk Region).

Materials and methods. The research was conducted in the greenhouse complex "Eletskie Ovoshi" (Lipetsk region). This is a modern complex of 5th generation greenhouses, which was built taking into account the latest technological innovations. The entire technological process of growing cucumbers in the greenhouse complex is controlled by a computer system for creating an artificial climate. The cucumber was grown in a greenhouse using low-volume hydroponics on mineral wool with periodic supply of nutrient solution in winter-spring crop conditions. The objects of the research were promising parthenocarpic hybrids: long-fruited smooth cucumber Lohengrin, medium-fruited smooth cucumber Meva. During 13 weeks of fruiting, weekly accounting of qualitative and quantitative indicators of the harvest was carried out. Fruits of the highest, first, second, third grade and substandard were noted. Statistical processing in the experiment was carried out by the method of dispersion analysis according to B.A. Dospekhov.

Results. For the first time, it has been established for the conditions of the Lipetsk region, located in the central zone of Russia, that the cultivation of modern parthenocarpic cucumber hybrids in winter-spring rotation is best sown in the first ten days of February (February 6). This is the optimal sowing period. Over the entire fruiting period (13 weeks), the quality of the cucumber variety Mewa (Mewa F1) was the best at this sowing time. The hybrid Lohengrin has a property in the conditions of the Lipetsk region to sharply worsen the production by the 13th week of fruiting, starting from the 10th week. In comparison with the hybrid Meva, 40.5% less top-quality cucumbers were obtained, and 37.4 and 3.1% more of the second and third grades. Growing the hybrid Meva in comparison with the hybrid Lohengrin leads to an increase in greenhouse productivity by 3.57 kg/m2 and a decrease in the price of cucumbers by 1.09 rubles/kg.

Conclusion. The possibility of obtaining protected soil products is shown using cucumber as an example with different ratios of quantity, quality and price depending on the fruiting period, sowing period and hybrid. Economic efficiency showed the feasibility of increasing the area for growing the medium-fruited cucumber hybrid Mewa (Mewa F1), which will contribute to increasing the productivity of modern greenhouses.

EDN: NAASHI

Cultivation of sunflower hybrids depending on treatment with agrochemicals in conditions of the southern part of the Non-Black Earth Region of the Russia

2025-09-03T01:48:57+07:00

Background. For the first time in conditions of the southern Non-Black Earth Region, comprehensive researches were carried out to study the influence of microbiological fertilizers Phosphatovite, Baikal EM, Azotovite on the productivity of promising hybrids NK Neoma, SI Bacardi in conditions of a training experimental field of Ryazan State Agrotechnological University Named after P.A. Kostychev, Ryazan region, Russia.

Purpose. The purpose of the work was to identify the efficiency of agrochemicals in agrocenoses of various sunflower hybrids in conditions of Ryazan region.

Materials and methods. The two-factor field experiment was launched in 2022 and 2023. The studies were carried out according to the experimental design: 1. Control (without treatment); 2. Microbiological fertilizer Phosphatovite; 3. Microbiological fertilizer Baikal EM; 4. Microbiological fertilizer Azotovite.

Results. The average yield of sunflower seeds in options with hybrid SI Bacardi was lower (23.4-26.4 dt/ha) than in hybrid NK Neoma (24.0-26.8 dt/ha). On average, the maximum yield was found for the option with the action of Azotovite, 1 l/ha on plots with hybrid NK Neoma, and amounted to 26.8, which was 2.8 dt/ha more than the control option. Qualitative analysis of seeds showed that the microbiological fertilizers used did not significantly affect the oil content of sunflower. Let us highlight the higher oil content of hybrid SI Bacardi: 47.4-49.3%, which was 1.5-2% higher than that of hybrid NK Neoma. The maximum fat yield was obtained in options NK Neoma + Azotovite (1 230.1 kg/ha) and SI Bacardi + Baikal EM (1 258.0 kg/ha), where the indicator depended mainly on seed productivity. The maximum oil content was obtained with Phosphatovite + SI Bacardi option (49.3%).

Conclusion. In the conditions of the Ryazan district of the Ryazan region, it is recommended to grow sunflower hybrids SI Bacardi, NK Neoma with the use of microbiological fertilizers Azotovit, Phosphatovit and Baikal EM in culture cultivation technology as seed treatment before sowing and application during the growing season in the period of 4-8 real leaves.

EDN: LLNVQY

Aphidophages of the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar territory and their role in regulating the number of pests

2025-09-03T02:17:07+07:00

Background. The climaticandfloraldiversity of the biocenosis of the Lazarevskydistrict of the resortcity of Sochiserved to form a uniquespeciescompositionofPalearctic,subtropicalandtropicalentomofaunain the region.Astablesymbiosis of the aphidcomplexandtheirnaturalpredatorsandparasites has been formed. During theperiod of rapidincrease in the numberofphytophages, the controlbioagentsweresyrphidlarvae,chrysops(up to 77eggsin the egg),coccinellidlarvaeandimagos(up to 70larvaeand4imagosperplant),larvae of aphidimizagallica(up to 17individualsperleaf).

Purpose: to studythe aphidophages of the Black Seacoast of the KrasnodarTerritoryandtheirroleinregulating the number of pestsin the agro-cenoses of the Lazarevskydistrict of Sochi.

Materials and methods. Phytosanitaryinspection was carried out in the spring and summerperiod-4timesamonth,inautumn and winter-2timesamonth. The choice of the registration date during thegrowingseason was determined by the appearance of the firstphytophagousindividualsafterwintering.Identification of the identifiedphytophages was carried out in the laboratories of the stationaccordingto generally accepted methods(MarshakovV.G.,1985).Mathematicaldataprocessing was carried out usingMSExcel.Innaturalandartificialbiocenoses, coccinellides showed the greatesteffectiveness.

Results.For the first time in 2021-2024, the role of phytophages in regulating the number of pests in the agrocenoses of the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory was assessed. The averagebiologicalefficiency of entomophageswas80 %.Inuncontrolledopengroundconditions, harmony was the bestbioagent for aphidcontrolwith an efficiencyof95 %.Highpredationresults were shown by nativepredators-polyphagesmacrolophusanddicyphus.Theirbiologicaleffectivenessin the closedgroundaveraged70 %with a predatorratio:The victim is 1:30. The use of laboratorypopulations of specializedparasites of lisiflebusandaphidiusincontrolledindoorconditionsshowed a parasitization rate of up to 84 %.

Conclusion. Insufficient effectiveness of natural aphidophages has been revealed when they are used as a mono-agent of aphid biocontrol. Significantly higher results were shown by the simultaneous use of a complex of aphidophages consisting of coccinellides, syrphides, halides of aphidimysis, macrolophus and dicyphus. As a result of studies on the toxicity of the most common insecticides and fungicides against entomophages, the negative effect of some drugs on the further development of insects has been revealed. A decrease in the number of pupated larvae was recorded from 34.7 % to 37.9 % and departed imago harmonia from 29.9% to 33.6%. The most effective drugs were identified based on the entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria and Lecanicillium found in the region, which showed an efficacy of up to 90 %.

Sponsorship information. The work was carried out according to the state assignment of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation within the framework of research on the topic No. FGRN-2022-0005.

EDN: ZTSHVA

Fitness of Venturia inaequalis isolates with resistance to multiple chemical classes of fungicides in vitro

2025-09-03T02:43:37+07:00

Background. The development of fungicide resistance in the apple scab pathogen suggests the development of measures to manage the development of resistance that can functionally delay the emergence of resistant populations of the pathogen. Knowledge of the pathogen's fitness is essential to applying this approach and assessing how successful it will be, since resistance may come with a fitness cost.

Purpose. To evaluate the fitness of sensitive Venturia inaequalis isolates and isolates with multiple fungicide resistances to osmotic and oxidative stress in vitro.

Methods. The size of isolates from four groups (a group with baseline sensitivity and three groups with different multiple resistances to fungicides) was evaluated on potato-glucose agar with the addition of various concentrations of NaCl (2, 3, 4, and 6%) and H₂O₂ (2, 5, and 10 mM).

Results. The inhibition of mycelium growth in variants with the addition of NaCl relative to the control occurred on average by about 10% with an increase in concentration of 1%. In all variants of the experiment, the average size of isolates in the initial group was smaller than in the pathogen groups with resistance to fungicides. Oxidative stress has the following effect on the average size of the isolates: in the control, it was 12.2 mm; at a concentration of H₂O₂, it was 2 mM–6.7 mm; and at 5 mM–1.3 mm. There was a tendency for the isolates to have a higher average size in the group with simultaneous resistance to two fungicides, compared with other groups at concentrations of H₂O₂ of 2 mM and 5 mM.

Conclusion. The absence of significant lower values of the average size of isolates in groups with multiple resistances to fungicides in comparison with the baseline group under in vitro stress conditions shows the absence of fitness cost.

Sponsorship information. The research was carried out with the financial support of the Kuban Science Foundation within the framework of the scientific project № MFI-20.1/98.

EDN: KAIYAV

Effective methods of forest breeding and varietal seed production for forest reclamation of arid territories of European Russia

2025-09-03T18:31:36+07:00

Background. Of particular relevance is the problem of creating a new generation of viable protective forest plantations from a reliable assortment on a breeding and genetic basis from seed material of the highest breeding conditions.

Purpose. Goal. Selection of promising tree species for the arid region (European territory of Russia) based on effective methods to increase the stability of plantations for forest breeding and seed production.

Materials and methods. Genetic assessment of forest seed plantations was carried out using analysis of variance, the coefficients of repeatability and heritability, and the proportion of influence of genetic and environmental factors on phenotypes. Genotypes were isolated using an inventory at the level of a competitive test based on a set of positive signs and the degree of their value for each species under study. The ranking of taxation indicators was carried out in order to select promising clones and families for high-yielding forest seed plantations with signs of intensive growth. Field and laboratory methods were used in the research: phenological, morphological, physiological and biochemical.

Results. It has been established that by reintroducing into the culture the selection of age-old reproducers with good vitality and resistance to adverse environmental factors of individuals, it is possible to significantly increase the stability of plantations for various purposes. The good preservation and taxation indicators of the studied rocks can be associated with the formation of an intrazonal ecological situation in the plantations. The high efficiency of the selection of hybrid forms is confirmed, since all the studied plants had a satisfactory condition and a high percentage of preservation.

Conclusions. The developed scheme for increasing the stability of ZLN (protective forest plantations) will create a valuable breeding fund for agroforestry development, the main breeds of which include Robinia pseudoacacia L., Quercus robur L., Pyrus communis subsp. pyraster (L.) Ehrh., Ulmus pumila L., Fraxinus excelsior L., Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marshall., Pinus nigra subsp. pallasiana (Lamb.), Pinus silvestris L. The effect of planting on the fruiting of clonal offspring is unreliable, the effect of the queen bee is reliable at the level of 1-5% significance in relation to plus trees on the plantation. The species composition of the plantations of the Novoanninsky population is classified as promising and can claim the status of a cultural variety.

EDN: KEVYQR

Race-specific leaf and root resistance of winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) to Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris

2025-09-03T18:59:36+07:00

Background. Researchers from France, Serbia, and Russia have reported the spread of Black Rot in winter rape crop. The cultivation of resistant varieties and hybrids is considered to be the most effective method of reducing the economic damage caused by the disease. The complexity of breeding for resistance to Black Rot lies in the presence of at least 11 races of the pathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris, each of which requires its own resistance gene. Studies of race-specific resistance of winter rapeseed are limited to the study of resistance to 1 and 4 races of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris using leaf-piercing technique.

Purpose. The objective of this research is to study the manifestation of leaf and root resistance of rapeseed to Black Rot and to identify sources of high race-specific resistance to 1, 3, 4, and 6 races of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris.

Materials and methods. Artificial screening of resistance to black rot was carried out using a genetic collection of winter rapeseed, represented by 30 accessions. Inoculation using bacterial suspensions of Xanthomonas campestris pv. сampestris was conducted under controlled conditions of a climate chamber. The inoculation process involved leaf-piercing technique by clipping the leaf edges near the veins using forceps or root traumatization. Black rot resistance or susceptibility were estimated on a two-point scale.

Results. One source of leaf resistance to race 4 of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris “Tegg” was identified in the genetic collection of winter rapseed. When plants were inoculated using the root traumatization system, the samples Dagg with root resistance to Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris race 4 and Fagg with root resistance to race 3 were identified.

Conclusion. Two independent race-specific systems of resistance to black rot have been identified in winter rapeseed, which are manifested using different methods of inoculation with Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris pathogen. The identified sources of resistance can be used in rapeseed breeding programs for resistance. Hybridologic and molecular genetic analysis of each of the identified resistance systems is required.

EDN: KKBEWM

Drought resistance assessment of olive cultivars and hybrids

2025-09-03T20:49:51+07:00

Background. Olive (O. europaea L.) is one of the main fruit crops in the world. It is most widespread in the Mediterranean region. In recent years, due to global warming and aridization of the earth, most olive-producing countries have suffered significant losses and are forced to transfer olive plantings from the traditional southern regions to the more humid northern ones. Insufficient precipitation and lack of irrigation water are currently some limiting factors in this crop's spread. Producers are increasingly focusing on planting drought-resistant cultivars that could produce high and regular yields in conditions of insufficient water supply. In this regard, this study aimed to identify genotypes of O. europaea with high adaptive ability to the arid conditions of southern Russia and to determine the most informative indicators of drought resistance for collection screening.

Materials and methods. Studies of water regime indicators (water-holding capacity, water deficiency, water content) and relative electrolyte yield, when the cell membrane is damaged under conditions of dehydration of leaf tissues, were carried out on 60 intraspecific hybrids of European olive. Corregiolo and Ascolano cultivars served as the control.

The experiments were performed in laboratory conditions under controlled temperature of 30°C and relative air humidity of 30%. After leaf tissues' saturation with water (control), as well as after they were dehydrated for 24, 48 and 72 hours, drought resistance indicators were assessed.

Results. Based on a cluster analysis, the main indicators of drought resistance, four groups of olive genotypes with different resistance to drought were identified. The greatest interest is for hybrids in the group with very high drought resistance. This cluster consists of 14 of the most promising hybrids that are superior in drought resistance to the control olive variety Ascolano. Water loss for these accession varied from 20.81 to 33.63%, and the relative yield of electrolyte varied from 0.27 to 0.36 RU, which allows us to conclude that their drought resistance is very high. Based on the analysis of principal components between various criteria of the water regime of olive plants, the relationship and influence on the integral assessment of drought resistance was shown. It is noted that the most informative indicator, which has a negative correlation with water loss and the relative yield of electrolytes when the cell membrane is damaged, is water-holding capacity. Indicators of drought resistance such as water content in leaves, water deficit, and relative water content in leaves are not sufficiently informative for the selection breeding of drought-resistant cultivars and forms of olive.

EDN: HAMDEP

Physiological parameters formation of drought resistance in the process of adaptation of plants Ulmus pumila L. to adverse environmental factors in the conditions of the Astrakhan region

2025-09-03T21:34:08+07:00

Background. The studies were carried out in the Astrakhan region, where dust storms are common and there is a deficit of precipitation. Only a few species of trees and shrubs can grow in this region, one of which is Ulmus pumila L. The adaptation of this species largely depends on the ability to adapt to drought by regulating the internal water environment during the growing season in semi-desert conditions. When there is a lack of moisture in the soil, drought-resistant elm trees have more pronounced protective self-regulatory reactions.

Purpose. Assessment of physiological parameters of adaptation of Ulmus pumila L. to unfavorable environmental factors in the conditions of the Astrakhan region.

Materials and methods. The objects were two groups of plants: floodplain plantings and plantings of green umbrellas Ulmus pumila L. in the Kharabalinsky district of the Astrakhan region. The degree of drought resistance of Ulmus pumila L. was assessed by the state of water content of the leaves and the functioning of the plant pigment systems in the hot summer period.

Results. It was found that the highest indicators of water-holding capacity were observed in plantings of green umbrellas. The chlorophyll content in the leaves of Ulmus pumila L. varies on average from 31 to 30 mg/cm in two populations.

Conclusion. Prolonged drought and high average daily temperatures in the Astrakhan region worsened the indicators of pigments in the leaves, but the life processes of plants in two plantings were stable and no suppression of taxa was observed. Ulmus pumila L. has a high adaptation to small soils suitable for vegetation in the Astrakhan region.

EDN: GAXHUR

Disability of the adult population due to HIV infection: A regional aspect

2025-09-04T13:43:50+07:00

Background. The problem of HIV infection due to HIV infection has a high medical and social significance due to disability and mortality of the population. The study of regional trends and peculiarities of disability of the population due to HIV infection is relevant.

Purpose. To analyze the regional peculiarities of disability of the adult population of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania due to HIV infection.

Materials and methods. The data of the Federal state Institution "Main Bureau of Medical and Social Expertise for the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania" of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Russian Federation (f. No. 7) for the period from 2018-2022 and certificates of examination of those first recognized as disabled due to HIV infection are analyzed.

Results. There is a stable downward trend similar to the Russian Federation in 2020-2022. Regional indicators of people with disabilities recognized for the first time. The decrease in primary disability rates in the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania reflects the all-Russian trends associated with a decrease in the detection of the disease during the COVID-19 pandemic. The decrease in the indicators of primary disability was accompanied by an aggravation of disability and the prevalence of disability group II by more than 2 times, compared with 2019. The age-sex structure of disability due to HIV infection is dominated young people and men. In order of ranking, three rural municipal districts have been identified in which the level of disability is correlated with the level of morbidity due to HIV infection.

Conclusion. The identified regional features of the primary disability of the adult population due to HIV infection make it possible to predict its trends and are suitable for planning measures to reduce it, including effective antiretroviral therapy. The issue of preserving the health of young people is strategically important.

EDN: DUKZPM

Comprehensive assessment of the development potential of plant production in the municipal district

2025-09-04T14:21:13+07:00

The work examines a comprehensive assessment of the variability of natural-climatic and production-economic characteristics to determine the potential for the development of crop production in a municipal district. This approach allows optimizing the resources of agricultural producers, improving forecasts, plans and increasing labor productivity. The goal of the work is to analyze the variability of climatic factors and production-economic characteristics to assess the potential for agricultural development in the municipal district. The scientific novelty of the study is associated with a comprehensive assessment of climatic and production-economic characteristics using mathematical modeling for forecasting and planning production for a long-term perspective, taking into account various conditions of the agricultural producer's activities. To achieve this goal, long-term changes in precipitation and temperatures for each month of the growing season were analyzed. The influence of these factors on crop yields was determined and the most significant of them were identified. Multi-level trends were highlighted in the series of bioproductivity of grain crops, vegetables and potatoes. Crop yield losses were determined. Based on a parametric programming problem with probabilistic characteristics, plans for obtaining volumes of the main types of agricultural products until 2026 were built. At the same time, predictive and stochastic values of crop yields were previously determined. Solutions to the extreme problem were obtained for average, favorable and unfavorable conditions of activity of agricultural producers. The methodology for a comprehensive assessment of the potential for agricultural development is applicable to enterprises, municipal and agricultural landscape areas. In the article, the methodology was tested for the Irkutsk district.

Sponsorship information. This work was supported by the Russian Science Foundation grant No. 24-21-00502.

EDN: DYMPRI

Pheno-genotypic characterization of the enteromicrobiota of wild and zoo animals as a natural reservoir of antibiotic-resistant microbial strains

2025-09-04T18:38:31+07:00

Background. Currently, there is increasing attention to the rise in the number of cases of bacteria with multiple antimicrobial resistance found in the environment, including in wildlife. Wild animals may play a significant role in the transmission of antibiotic resistance on the local and global levels. The genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance originated in environmental microorganisms, thus a thorough analysis of habitats is necessary to predict the processes of evolution and spread of antibiotic resistance.

There is increasing attention of cases of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria being detected in wildlife is attracting increased attention from scientists. Wild animals are involved in the transmission of antibiotic resistance in microorganisms. The genetic determinants of resistance arose in environmental microorganisms, so a thorough analysis of their habitats is necessary to predict the processes of evolution and spread of this phenomenon.

Purpose. The objective of the study is to examine the pheno-genotypic profile of antibiotic resistance in microorganisms isolated from the enteromicrobiota of wild and captive (zoo) animals.

Materials and methods. Microorganisms were identified using bacteriological methods and time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The detection of genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance was performed using PCR.

Results. The studies have shown that the microbiota of the digestive tract of wild and zoo animals is represented by five families: Streptococcaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, Bacillaceae, Staphylococcaceae, and Pseudomonadaceae. A high resistance of certain bacterial species (E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus faecalis, and others) to antimicrobial agents of the biosynthetic penicillin group and β-lactamase inhibitors has been established. Additionally, half of the E. coli isolates were found to carry the blaCTX-M gene, which encodes an extended-spectrum β-lactamase. The blaOXA10 gene, encoding class D β-lactamases, was detected in 15.2% of E. coli cultures.

Conclusion. The analysis of actual data from microbiological and molecular-genetic monitoring can serve as an important and effective assessment of the dissemination of clinically significant antimicrobial-resistant microbiota among wild animals.

Sponsorship information. This work was supported by the Russian Science Foundation grant (Agreement No. 23-26-00118 dated January 13, 2023).

EDN: BRAOCI

Fish parasitofauna of Tavush reservoirs

2025-09-04T19:54:50+07:00

Background. The flora and fauna of the river basins of the Republic of Armenia is quite rich and very diverse. Of particular interest is the life of the fish living in them and parasitic diseases, which have received little study.

Purpose.The purpose of the research is to study the parasite fauna of fishes of Tavush and Varagajur rivers, Tavush and Hakhumi reservoirs.

Material and methods. The research was carried out in 2022-2023. In the laboratory of "Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Sanitary Expertise Research Center" of the Armenian National Agrarian University. Fish caught from Tavush and Varagajur rivers, Tavush and Hakhum reservoirs were the materials for research. 231 individuals were dissected by the method of complete parasitological dissection (by the method of Bykhovskaya-Pavlovskaya, 1985). The statistical processing of the data was carried out with the "BioStat 2009" computer program.

Results. During the parasitological research conducted in the water basins of the Tavush region, 4 types of helminths were found in the fish species examined: broun trout, kura barbel, caucasian scraper, wild common carp, sout caspian sprilin, prussian carp and caucasian chub europiean chub Dactylogyrus vastator monogenetic ectoparasite, Diplostomum spathaceum and Diplostomum rutili trematode metacercariae, Rhabdochona fortunatowi nematodes and 3 types of protozoa Chilodonella cyprini, Ichthyophthirius multifiliis and Trichodina nigra.

Conclusion. As a result of the research of the parasitofauna, it was revealed that out of the 7 studied fish species, the broun trout is the most susceptible to parasitic diseases, and the most common of the diseases is rhabdochonosis, which was found in all the studied fish species.

EDN: CKGBXQ

Involvement of abandoned agricultural land in Bryansk Oblast to agricultural use and factors determining the scale of this process

2025-09-04T20:44:15+07:00

Background. Involvement of abandoned land to agricultural turnover is especially relevant in countries are facing with a rising dependence from agri-food imports.

Purpose. The purpose of the research is to study the spatial occurrence of the process of abandoned agricultural land returning to agricultural use (re-agrogenesis) on the example of Bryansk Oblast – one of the leaders among Russian regions in agricultural production and to identify the key factors that determine its direction.

Materials and methods. The study is based on the concept of agricultural environmental management as a factor causing the transformation of natural, ecological, geographical, social, and economic space. Data for this study were gathered from the official statistical sources for the period 2014-2021. Methods of mathematical statistics were applied. Geospatial analysis of re-agrogenesis was carried out by taking into account the factors determining the directions of re-agrogenesis.

Results. The areas with similar characteristics of re-agrogenesis were identified. The factors defining agricultural land dynamics were determined. Correlation links between factors affecting landscapes are used for agricultural purposes and the dynamics of agricultural lands within the boundaries of these areas were set. It is shown that in Bryansk Oblast the large-scale process of abandoned agricultural lands returning to agricultural use has started since the Russian food embargo introduction. The factors of a reverse process to re-agrogenesis (deagrarization) were determined.

Conclusion. The results of the study showed that the statistical relationships between the factors contributing or limiting the occurrence of re-agrogenesis within the determined areas are different. They depend on agro-environmnetal characteristics of the territory, economic orientation of the municipal districts, investments to the agro-industrial sector, and on environmental and socio-economic situation.

EDN: CNOICA

Post-mortem diagnosis of pig pasterellosis

2025-09-04T22:18:22+07:00

Background. Due to the widespread spread of pasteurellosis among animals, particularly in pigs and the enormous economic damage it causes to pig farms due(significant loss of pig population, treatment costs, decreased quality of products and the danger of infection of people), the problem of diagnosing pasteurellosis is an urgent task of veterinary science.

Purpose. The purpose of our research was post-mortem diagnosis of pasteurelosis in three pig farms in the Armavir region of the Republic of Armenia, identification of its causative agent, with the aim of properly organizing treatment and preventive measures

Material and methods. The study was carried out in three pig farms in the Armavir region. A post-mortem examination of the lungs of pigs was carried out to study the nature of their lesions, and the average weight of slaughtered animals was determined. Pathological material was selected from the affected parts of the lungs, which was used for culturing and identifying the pathogen. Identification of the pathogen was carried out on blood agar, Mac Conkey agar. Determination of the biochemical properties of the pathogen was carried out using biochemical tests API 20E.

Results. In 74 slaughtered pigs, pathological changes in the lungs were characteristic of lobar, serous-fibrinous pneumonia, fibrino-necrotic pleuropneumonia, pleurisy and bronchopneumonia, and a decrease in body weight was observed. When inoculated on MPA containing 5℅ serum, colonies with morphological properties characteristic of pasteurel colonies were found. Biochemical studies confirmed that the pathogen belongs to the species P. multocida.

Conclusion. During examination the lungs of slaughtered animals, pneumonia, pleuropnemonia and pleurisy were found in the majority of the lungs. When inoculated on nutrient media, the pathogen P. Multocida was identified. Summarizing the research results, we can conclude that pasteurelosis is widespread, accompanied by lung damage.

EDN: FBSWNB

О фундаментальном вкладе Ивана Владимировича Холикова в развитие медицины, организации здравоохранения и международного сотрудничества в области военной медицины (к 50-летнему юбилею ученого)

2025-09-04T22:37:18+07:00

О фундаментальном вкладе Ивана Владимировича Холикова в развитие медицины, организации здравоохранения и международного сотрудничества в области военной медицины (к 50-летнему юбилею ученого)

EDN: BGSVJN