Abstract. Aim. To carry out scenario modeling of development of social and economic system of the Untsukulsky area of the Republic of Dagestan from positions of its stability. Material and methods. The work was based on data on the environmental and socio-economic development of the district, on the relationships of the main subsystems that form the socio-economic and environmental regional mechanism, the results of expert surveys, annual statistical reporting on the socio-economic development of the territory. Results. Cognitive maps of interrelations of basic parameters of ecological, social and economic development are constructed, the enlarged map of interrelations of social-economic and ecological subsystems of the Untsukulsky area is also constructed. The analysis of stability of socio-ecological-economic system of the territory. Scenario modeling of parameters of socio-ecological and economic development of the district is carried out. The results of the scenario modeling of the territory development showed that the regulatory role of the Federal center is an essential governing factor for the region in relation to its stability. The possibility of using scenario modeling for designing strategies for sustainable development of the territory on the basis of cognitive structurization of the development of possible situations is shown. Conclusion. The possibilities of cognitive structuring of knowledge about the problem situation are significant for the development of scenarios not only for a particular territory, but for the region in terms of its sustainability and design strategies based on them for the sustainable development of its socio-economic system. The most significant stage of the study of this problem is the collection of information, and its structuring in the form of a cognitive map.

Abstract. Aim. The aim of the research is to analyze the reasons for the migration of mountain people to the plain, the identification of the most significant stages of the resettlement movement in the Republic of Dagestan, the identification of ways to preserve and revive the mountain villages of Dagestan. Discussion. At present, the outflow of population from mountainous areas to flat land is actively continuing which leads to the abandonment of dozens of mountain villages. Therefore, in modern conditions, the urgent task is to preserve and revive the mountain villages of Dagestan. For this, first of all, the creation of a developed infrastructure, high-quality medical care and education, as well as the revival of traditional forms of land use, horticulture and cattle breeding, creation of new jobs are necessary in mountainous areas. The traditional habitat should be attractive for young people. The understanding of the problem of preservation and revival of the mountainous regions of Dagestan exists not only at the governmental level but also in Dagestan society as a whole. It is shown that the natural-historical and cultural complexes of Dagestan should be used for the development of various types of tourism, especially cultural-cognitive and ethno-tourism, ecological and religious tourism. Conclusion. Almost every ancient mountain village of Dagestan is actually an ethnographic museum in the open air, therefore the development of the tourism industry, in particular cultural-cognitive and ethno-tourism, will contribute to the preservation and revival of ancient auls in the republic.

Abstract. Aim. The aim is to study the rich traditions that have developed in the art crafts of Dagestan in the formation of the product range in modern conditions. Materials and methods. At the first stage of the study, according to the register and publicly available materials, the constantly changing market of products of folk art crafts was studied as well as its growing influence on the artistic quality of products manufactured by the enterprises of folk arts and crafts. Discussion. To identify the causes that gave rise to this phenomenon, we need to turn to the state of folk art in the late 50's - early 60’s of the twentieth century, when almost all the traditional enterprises of the art crafts of the Russian SFSR experienced an acute industrial crisis, which collapsed the unique centers of folk art. As a result of a sharp decline in demand for products of folk handicrafts, the volume of production of enterprises has decreased significantly; skilled hereditary masters with rich experience of making highly artistic works of folk art began to leave the fields. Conclusion. During the research, were revealed the main problems of sustainable development of folk arts and crafts in modern conditions in connection with the changing market conditions.

Abstract. Aim. Results of bird counts carried out over the period 1996 – 2016 in Intra-mountain Daghestan have been analyzed. The species composition of birds was determined for the first time and the ecology of the avifauna of the research area was characterized. Methods. Based on the original and conventional methods, the ecological structure and the parameters of variation in bird population density in the Dagestan Mountain Region were determined. Results. The bird species composition and ecological structure of avifauna of the middle-mountain province of Daghestan are described for the first time. The variations in bird population density are identified and specific features of ecology are characterized for each of 11 bird communities with their full set of birds, which is of principal importance, because the scanty species add uniqueness not only to the pattern of a separate faunal community, but also to the avifauna of the studied region in whole. Main conclusions. The research has shown that a specific pattern of the avifauna of Intra-mountain Daghestan is provided not only by resident communities of typical mountain birds but also by nesting in mountains adapted populations composed of migratory birds of valleys. Analysis of the collected material gives an image of the species composition and territorial distribution of birds and also shows resource capacities of avifauna in Intra-mountain Daghestan.

Abstract. Aim. The aim is to analyze the fauna of buffalo helminths at the northern border of the European part of Russia, the extensiveness and intensity of cattle infection in pastures of different ecological types, environmental factors affecting the population size and the formation of the helminth faunistic complex of anthropogenic foci of bio and geo-helminthoses. Methods. To achieve the goal, the following methods were used: helminthoscopy, ovarioscopy and larvoscopy; technique of complete helminthological dissection of animals and humans according to K.I. Scriabin; artificial acquisition of larvae, study of mollusks, oribatid mites, flotation, successive washing of faeces. Results. A study carried out for more than 40 years has shown that the fauna of buffalo helminths is represented by 44 species, where 5 of 15 biohelminthes are of the trematode class, 7 cestodes, 3 nematodes and 29 geo-helminths (nematodes). A rich species composition (25 species) is represented by Strongylata suborder, Railliet et Henry 1913. The complex of buffalo helminthes fauna is represented by a rich biodiversity of species (44 species) on lowland moist pastures and on coastal areas flooded with freshened waters of the western shores of the North Caucasus. The formation of the complex of buffalo helminthes fauna occurs in the second and third year on the above mentioned ecological types of pastures. Conclusion. Buffalo is infected by helminths with a prevalence rate (PR) of 0.8-42.1%, with an infection intensity (II) of 2-2040 specimens. Mixed foci of helminthiases are formed on all ecological types of pastures. This is due to the fact that 93.2% of parasites are specific for ruminants. Biodiversity of species, the formation of the complex of buffalo helminthes fauna depends on the impact of environmental factors. The complex of buffalo helminthes fauna on different types of ecological pastures is represented in mixed invasions from 3 to 14 species of pathogens.

Abstract. The aim of the research is to summarize the scattered information about the types of decorative flora of the Chechen Republic and adjacent territories; to identify highly resistant ornamental plants for cities and settlements of the North Caucasus and other territories of Russia. Discussion. Currently, in a variety of botanical gardens of the North Caucasus grows a large number of decorative plant species, widely used in green construction. However, not all species posses the quality to sufficient resist unfavorable conditions of the changed abiotic and biotic environment. Among the studied, the most valuable and promising for widespread introduction are the species of more than 122 taxa, the decorative effect of which is preserved throughout the year with no signs of aging. Many examples of the targeted use of herbs, tree species, lianas, bulbous plants were cited in the research. We give a large list of Caucasian species for growing on lawns, flowerbeds, flower gardens, alpine and stony mountains, roadsides and parks, urban parks, squares and alleys as a type of gardening. Their decorative properties, vitality, durability, life form and other bio-ecological features, attitude to abiotic factors (soil conditions, illumination, temperature, soil and atmospheric humidification conditions, etc.) were taken into account. Conclusion. We give a large list of ornamental species and various planting techniques of specific species are introduced in conditions of Chechnya and its adjacent territories as well as the methods of implementing in the landscaping practice in other (middle and northern) regions of Russia.

Abstract. Aim of this research is to study winter resistance, drought resistance, resistance to fungal diseases and harmful insects of Washingtonia filifera (Lind. ex Andr., H. Wendl. ex A. Bary, 1879) and to examine the possibility of the subsequent selection using the experimental mutagenesis for increasing its frost resistance at the Southern Coast of the Crimea (SCC). Material and methods. The material and objects of our research were the collection plantations of Washingtonia filifera in the Arboretum of Nikitsky Botanical Garden (NBG) and parks of the South Coast of Crimea. Research methods: comparative-ecological, biometric, analytical and visual. To achieve the objective, the following results were obtained in the course of the studies. The history of introduction of this species in the NBG has been described and its occurrence at the Southern Coast of the Crimea (SCC) shown. An analysis of the quantitative biometric indicators of the leaves’ growth and die-back on average over the vegetation period on the basis of phenological observations over the test plants has been carried out taking into consideration the existing agricultural background. The reasons and factors influencing the frost resistance of this species depending on the combination of the set of meteorological indicators causing a certain level of frosting depending not only on the minimum negative temperatures but also on the soil and atmospheric moisture have been identified. Thresholds values of the impact of extreme negative temperatures for the Washingtonia filifera at the lethal and sub-lethal levels have been identified. Danger of infection of the representatives of the Arecaceae family (Arecaceae C.H. Schultz) with the new types of dangerous phytophages has been identified. The possibility of its selection with the use of a mutagen – colchicine has been shown. Main conclusions. The criteria have been outlined which will give the opportunity in the future to provide the science-based recommendations as to the agrotechnics of cultivation of this species under conditions of the SCC.

Abstract. Aim. Study the ecophysiological reaction of Nerium oleander L. on effect of progressive soil drought. Estimate the optimal and threshold values of environmental factors limiting photosynthesis rate of Nerium oleander L. plants. Materials and Methods. As the research materials, were used the young plants of Nerium oleander L. For continuous automatic recording of CO2/H2O gas exchange of intact leaves we used PTM-48A Photosynthesis Monitor. Results. It was established that N.oleander begins sense a water stress deficit during the critical period of active growth by reducing soil moisture content up to 35% field capacity (FC). Net photosynthesis (PN) and stomata conductance (gs) decreased under progressive soil drought stress and dropped to zero under condition: soil water beneath 2-4%VWC (6-11% FC) during more than 24 hours, leaves temperature – more than 37°C and PAR – more than 1300-1700 µmol/(m2 s). Optimal light and temperature conditions for intensive growth: leaf temperature from 23 to 36.5°C, light regime: full sunlight in the range PAR 850-1600 µmol/(m2 s) when soil moisture 45-75% FC. Conclusion. Genotypic characteristics of N. oleander plants in supporting optimal on accordance with the environmental conditions water balance were determined. One of the specific adaptation reaction for N. oleander to extreme drought conditions in case of complex influence of water stress (soil water content at level of wilting range (<6% FC) during more than 48 hours), high levels of irradiance and overheating is the accelerated senescence and exfoliation not only old but also young leaves resulting in the loss of ornamental value cultivar.

Abstract. Aim. The current state, variability, dynamics of natural and natural-anthropogenic landscapes of dry steppes and desert steppe of the south-east of the Russian plain were studied. Methods. Methods of field complex landscape studies, remote methods of decoding space images and estimating the state of geosystems based on NDVI were used. Results. On the basis of long-term landscape-ecological monitoring on the territory of the Donskoy and Eltonsky natural parks of the Volgograd region, it is established that the main causes of disturbance of geosystems and desertification are fires, spontaneous livestock raising, overgrazing. After the impact of fire, the biological diversity of geosystems is reduced, the processes of self-regulation are weakened, and resistance to external influences is reduced. The structure is simplified, the homogeneity of the vegetation cover increases, the height of the grass stand is reduced 2-3 times and the total projective cover is reduced 1,5-2 times, the tree and shrub vegetation dies, the proportion of polynia and weeds grows. For a long term (3-5 years), the bioproductiveness of geosystems is significantly reduced 1,5-3 times. The upper layer (2-4 cm) of the humus horizon burns out, the fertility of soils decreases. The local climate of pyrogenic geosystems is aridized, evaporation increases, soil moisture deficit increases, groundwater level decreases, springs run out. The processes of wind and water erosion are activated. Fires destroy places of reproduction, recreation, feeding of animals, habitats of rare and endangered species. Conclusions. Pyrogenic transformation is the most serious real threat to the biological and landscape diversity of the steppes.

Abstract. Aim. The aim of the study is to establish the regularities of the geographical distribution of the ecologically dependent and socially significant morbidity in the settlements of the Untsukulsky district of the Republic of Dagestan. Material and methods. In order to achieve this goal, we created a database on socially significant and ecologically dependent diseases of the population of the Untsukulsky district of the Republic of Dagestan. The statistical processing of the results was carried out using STATISTICA and Excel application packages. Results. The largest long-term intensive tuberculosis incidence rates are observed in the villages of Kolob, and Irganay; incidence of vision loss is detected in the villages of Untsukul, Kahabroso, Tsatanih, Arakani; oncological morbidity in the villages of Arakani, Tsatanih; child morbidity in the villages of Shamilkala, Untsukul; morbidity of the cardiovascular system in the villages of Untsukul; incidence of the endocrine system in the villages of Kahabroso, Untsukul. The smallest average long-term intensive rates of tuberculosis incidence are registered in the villages of Gimry, Ashilltah, and Tsatanih; incidence of vision loss in the villages of Kolob, Maydansky; oncological morbidity in the villages of Balakhani, Ashilltah, Maydansky; child morbidity in the villages of Tsatanih, Irganay; morbidity of the cardiovascular system in the villages of Tsatanih, Irganay; incidence of the endocrine system in the villages of Balakhani and Tsatanih. Conclusion. One of the primary indicators of the ecological well-being of the territory is human health. The revealed peculiarities of the morbidity of the population of the Untsukulsky district of the Republic of Dagestan indicate unfavorable trends in the state of health. The results of this study may be the basis for understanding the causes of diseases and environmental factors that affect their growth.

Abstract. The aim is to study the influence of neuro-information signals modulated by pulse hypoxia on the rhythm of cardiac contractions in low-mountain and high-mountain conditions. Methods. Heart rate was measured using the pulse oxymetry device ELOX-01M2. The impact analysis of information-wave signals was carried out with the help of the neuro-protector "Anthropotherapist", non-invasively (remotely) at a distance of up to 5 meters for 5 min. /day during 10 days. The investigations were carried out in lowmountain conditions (city of Nalchik, 550 m above sea level) and highlands, Mount Elbrus (site of "Garabashi", 3780 m. above sea level). Participants in the study were divided into groups: control group – 18 participants; experimental group - 18 participants. In the low-mountain and high-mountain conditions, the control group was not affected by the neuro-protector. In high-mountain conditions, the participants in the control group experienced only the effects of high-altitude hypoxia sessions. The experimental group was exposed to the neuro-information signals from the neuro-protector. High-altitude studies were carried out in the following mode: heart rate was recorded at the altitudes of Nalchik - exit to Elbrus – on the way to the site of "Garabashi" - return route to Nalchik. Results. It was found that with frequency exposure, there is a significant decrease and fluctuations in heart rate in low-mountain inhabitants. The stability of these changes in the rhythm of cardiac activity can also be seen in conditions of high-altitude hypoxia. Conclusion. Consequently, the proposed mode of frequency impact, implemented using the "Anthropotherapist" neuro-protector technology, can form a stage of adaptation to hypoxia and unfavorable climatic and environmental factors.

Abstract. Aim. Marine mammals play the role of "sentries", standing guard over the health and functioning of marine ecosystems. The analysis of data reported in literature was carried out to understand and to evaluate a circulation of representatives of the Orthomyxoviridae and Paramyxoviridae, dangerous pathogens capable to cause morbidity and mortality in marine warm-blooded animals. Discussion. In the population of marine animals, in the available literature, no more than twenty infectious diseases were described. At the same time, according to preliminary estimates, about 15% of marine mammals die from indicated diseases. Previous studies conducted by various groups of scientists have already shown the circulation of various viral pathogens, which cause different infections in these animals. The present fact indicates the important role of marine mammals in the ecology and spreading of a number of viruses. In accordance with a literature data, representatives of Orthomixoviruses and Paramyxoviruses are among the most dangerous pathogens, which may infect this type of animals. Thus, it was suggested that seals may be infected with a wide range of influenza viruses without prior adaptation. It was emphasized that pinnipeds are one of the reservoir of a human influenza B virus in nature. Infections caused by morbilliviruses, can be the reason of epizootics in a population of seals and among the other species of marine mammals. Signs of a disease are similar to the clinic of carnivore plague. Main conclusions. The data presented in literature is extremely not enough for fully understanding a role of marine mammals as hosts or carriers of potential zoonotic pathogens, such as avian influenza virus (AIV), morbilliviruses and others. Thus, this issue requires further more detailed study.

Abstract. Aim. The aim of the study is to show the possibility and efficiency of large-scale industrial production of microalgae in the Republic of Dagestan for the development of agriculture (feed for animals and poultry) and other technological applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries for the production of algalin flour (eco bread), polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6) physiologically necessary for humans, biologically active substances (astaxanthin, phycocyanin), new-generation antibiotics, biofuels and other high added value biotechnological products. The problems of using microalgae for bioremediation of the environment, in particular, purification of geothermal waters from phenols before discharging into the sewage system are considered. Methods. Microalgae are grown in closed and open type plants. Valuable algae components can be extracted using supercritical fluid technology of continuous action. Results. We give a comparative evaluation of the efficiency of using microalgae as a biological raw material in comparison with traditionally used oilseeds. Conclusion. For Dagestan, located on the shore of the Caspian Sea, with its warm climate and an abundance of solar and geothermal energy, the development of this technology is a task of great economic importance. The advantages of microalgae technologies are the basis for the creation of large-scale production of microalgae in southern Russia. Biotechnology in Dagestan can become not only profitable, but also a high-tech and innovative industry.

Abstract. Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of a consortium of hydrocarbon oxidizing bacteria in various model systems. Methods. Two types of model systems were used for carrying out the experiments: with a liquid mineral medium and with non-sterile soil. To determine the number of microorganisms, a standard method of serial dilutions with seeding to individual colonies was used. Individual strains in the consortium were distinguished using selective media with antibiotics. Oil degradation was assessed by IR spectrometry. Results. The consortium was capable to effective oil destruction in a liquid medium at 4°C and at 24°C, and with respect to control, oil loss is higher at low temperature. At 50°C, the consortium was inactive. In model non-sterile soil systems, the stimulation of native microorganisms by introducing mineral fertilizers did not lead to significant changes in the number of oil-degrading microorganisms but the degree of oil degradation increased. With the joint introduction of the microbial consortium and fertilization, the greatest number of both heterotrophic and oil-degrading strains was observed in the soil system. The degree of oil destruction in this system was also the highest: 59% at 42 days at room temperature. Main conclusions. The developed bacterial consortium has a high oil-degrading activity both at low (4°C) and moderate (18-25°C) temperatures. In non-sterile soil systems, the consortium's microorganisms do not inhibit the local biota, maintaining their numbers at about constant levels, but at the same time they make the main contribution to pollution degradation.

Abstract. Aim. The aim is to study the threshold sensitivity to salinization of the environment of individual isolated structures for evaluating the salt tolerance of plants. Methods. Comparison of the reaction to salinization of seeds, sprouts, epicotyls, leaves, cotyledons and flowers in species of cultural and natural flora. The following parameters were taken into account in the work: the life span, the time and capacity of for mation of roots and buds, and the wet and dry biomass of species. The results were processed by Statara version 3.0 Shareware (Statistic 5.0) by the parameters of the interaction of roots and shoots. Results. Plant individuals are characterized by the presence of structures that differ in specialization and life span. The question of the correspondence of reactions of structures with the salt tolerance of plants needs to be studied. The stability of the individual as an integral system is determined by the interaction of organs and structures with each other and with other components of the complex community. It evolves in the course of evolution by selecting individuals in the formation of stable plant communities. Quantitative methods of autoecology and genetics of populations are used to understand its mechanisms and role. Conclusion. The structure of an individual plant in an isolated culture is characterized by the specific reaction to salinization of the environment. In this case, the reaction of seeds, sprouts and isolated epicotyls corresponds most closely to the stability of the individual under the stress.

Abstract. Aim. The aim is to study the dental morbidity by examining the representatives of the urban population i.e. detection of tooth decay in the adult urban population of the Chechen Republic and  identification of a connection with the concentration of fluoride in drinking water, as well as with the age and place of residence. Methods. The study involved (random sampling) 600 people aged from 20 to 60 years who were born and permanently residing in various cities of the Chechen Republic. When collecting material, a card was used to systematically monitor the oral cavity, which included caries-affected teeth, filled teeth, teeth to be extracted as well as the extracted teeth due to caries complications. The content of fluorine in drinking water was determined in the Republican Health Inspection Services by the potentiometric method according to the state standard "Drinking water" (GOST 4386-81). Results. The prevalence of caries among the urban population of the Chechen Republic is quite high. At the age of 20-29 years, it reached 94.4%, increasing with age, reaching 100% in the older age groups. The findings obtained can largely be explained by the different content of fluorine in drinking water in the surveyed cities. Conclusion. Dental examinations of the urban population of the Chechen Republic living in the same climatic conditions allow us to note that the need for therapeutic and preventive care for basic dental diseases, such as dental caries, is quite high. All this requires taking urgent measures to improve dental care for the population in the cities surveyed.

Abstract. Aim. The aim of this work was to study the content of poisonous substances in the aquatic environment of the river Terek during the year of 2016 in the territory of the Chechen Republic. Materials and methods. Water samples of the river Terek were analyzed in the Laboratory of Environmental Control of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection. Dry residue was determined by weight analysis; stiffness by acid-base titration; acid-base properties by potentiometric method; the ion content was determined spectrophotometrically; concentration of heavy metals was identified with voltammetric analyzer; concentration of calcium and magnesium ions was measured titrometrically with Trilon B in the presence of an appropriate indicator. Results. The intensity of contamination of the water body was assessed according to the following parameters: total hardness, dry residue, permanganate value, pH, chlorides, dissolved oxygen, sulfates, nitrates and heavy metals content. In the course of the study, sensory characteristics such as smell, taste, turbidity and color were also determined; indicator value - permanganate value, which characterizes the contamination of water bodies with industrial and household wastewater as well as atmospheric precipitation. Conclusion. Studies of the ecological state of Terek, the main river of the Chechen Republic, have shown that the quality of the water body corresponds to hygienic standards: the content of pollutants is much lower than the maximum permissible concentration. In terms of water quality, the Terek River belongs to the 2nd class of surface water bodies, the water quality characteristic is relatively clean and the river pollution index corresponds to II.