VIROLOGY
The goal of this study was to investigate the effectiveness in suppressing viral replication of combinations of antisense phosphorothioate oligodeoxyribonucleotides targeting conserved regions in the HIV‐1 genome.
The antiretroviral activity of the antisense oligonucleotides was evaluated using human MT4 lymphocyte culture infected with HIV‐1 subtype A6. The amount of viral protein p24 was measured using an enzyme immunoassay (ELISA) to determine the effectiveness of the oligonucleotides treatments.The oligonucleotides studied and their combinations showed the ability to inhibit HIV‐1 replication at nanomolar concentrations. Among the mono‐oligonucleotides, the one targeting the gag gene region had the best anti‐viral suppression (IC50 = 58 ± 4.4 nM). Among the combinations, the most effective (IC50 = 29 ± 1.7 nM) consisted of oligonucleotides targeting the gag region and the primer binding site. These results confirm the potential of combining oligonucleotides that target different regions of the HIV‐1 genome to synergistically increase the anti‐viral effect, as compared to using each oligonucleotide individually. The justification for using a combination of oligonucleotides is important because the multidirectional antiviral effect of these molecules minimises the potential negative impact of HIV's mutational variability on the effectiveness of antiviral drugs.
Newcastle disease virus (NDV) continues to be a significant pathogen of avian species, with wild migratory birds playing a pivotal role in its circulation and interregional dissemination. This study aimed to investigate the biological characteristics of NDV strains isolated from wild birds in Russia, focusing on their replication efficiency and cytotoxic activity against mammalian tumor cell lines. Between 2018 and 2021, 92 samples were collected from wild waterfowl, and viruses were subsequently isolated in embryonated chicken eggs. Viral titers were determined using hemagglutination assays and VeroE6 cell cultures. Cytotoxicity of 19 NDV strains was evaluated on HeLa, SW13, RD, SKBR3, HEp‐2, and A549 cell lines. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay. The NDV strains exhibited substantial variability in both replication and cytotoxic activity. The most pronounced cytopathic effects were observed in SW13 and RD cells, whereas SKBR3, HeLa, and HEp‐2 cells displayed lower sensitivity. Strains with both high and low cytotoxic potential were identified, reflecting the heterogeneity of the isolates. These findings highlight the biological diversity of natural NDV isolates and their differential interactions with mammalian cells, which is relevant for assessing epizootic risk and exploring the virus’s potential as an oncolytic agent.
BOTANY
This paper presents the results of a comparative assessment of the flowering phenophases of apricot cultivars and natural forms of various ecological and geographical origins in the mountainous conditions of Dagestan, with the aim of subsequently identifying genotypes with late flowering periods.
The study was conducted on 130 apricot varieties and forms of varying ecological and geographical origins. In the spring of 2025, a phenological assessment was conducted at the Tsudakhar experimental base using five flowering traits: red bud, white bud, and the beginning, end, and duration of flowering.
Synchronous passage of the “red bud” (March 26–28) and “white bud” (March 30–31) phases was established in all accessions. In 89.2 % of accessions (116 genotypes), the "red bud" phase was observed from March 25–30, and the “beginning of flowering” (117 accessions) – from March 30 to April 4. The flowering duration in 85% of accessions was 10–15 days. The shortest flowering duration was noted in European varieties (5 days), ending by April 7–11. Extremely low variability of phenological traits (CV < 7 %) was revealed, due to the influence of high average daily temperatures in March. Dagestan genotypes of cultivated and wild origin demonstrated early flowering periods. Late flowering periods are typical for hybrid forms – 60 %, as well as samples from other groups from 2.8 to 14.3 %, with the exception of the Dagestan wild‐growing and Moscow groups.
The existing assortment of Dagestan varieties, forms and natural specimens is characterised as early flowering, which in the conditions of global warming requires the creation of new late flowering forms, such as the introduced genotypes: 'Zapozdaly', hybrid 8134, 'Kubansky Cherny', 'Tip Krasnoshchekogo' and the local variety 'Musa'.
Narrow‐local endemic species are of particular scientific and practical interest, as they define the originality and distinctiveness of a region's flora. The article discusses a narrow‐local endemic with a limited range within the Republic of Ingushetia, Campanula galushkoi (Taisumov et Teimurov) Murtaz. (syn. Symphyandra galushkoi Taisumov et Teimurov) – Nelkh Gorge near the confluence of the Nelkh and Assa Rivers, with minor occurrences in the Chechen Republic. The aim of this study was to detail and supplement the botanical description of the rare species Campanula galushkoi, clarify its range boundaries, ecological and coenotic association, bioecological features, limiting factors, recommendations for its protection in the Republic of Ingushetia and determine its conservation status.
The research was conducted using traditional floristic methods, using populations of the species Campanula galushkoi within the Republic of Ingushetia as the material.
A detailed morphological description of the species is provided, its habitat is characterised and its biological and ecological characteristics in the Republic of Ingushetia are studied. Factors limiting the taxon's population status are identified, the taxon's threat category and status are determined and recommendations for its conservation are provided.
Campanula galushkoi (Taisumov et Teimurov) Murtaz. (syn. Symphyandra galushkoi Taisumov et Teimurov) is a unique, locally endemic species described from the Nelkh Gorge, the only known location of this species in the Republic of Ingushetia. This species requires further detailed study and full protection.
ECOLOGY
This study aimed to investigate the population composition of erythrocytes in ground squirrels during deep hibernation and at various stages of rewarming upon induced arousal.
The study was conducted on little ground squirrels (Spermophilus pygmaeus Pall.). Experiments were performed on awake animals (control), animals in the middle of a deep hibernation bout, and in various stages of induced arousal (with body temperatures of 15 °C, 25 °C, and 37 °C). The population composition of erythrocytes was assessed using the acid erythrogram method.
During hibernation, an increase was observed in the number of erythrocytes undergoing spherocytic transformation, accompanied by a rise in the proportion of highly‐resistant and ultra‐highly resistant cells. Arousal and an increase in body temperature to 15 °C led to a decrease in the proportion of erythrocytes with low and medium resistance compared to the arousal state. Rewarming of ground squirrels to 25 °C was characterised by a higher content of spherulated and low‐resistance erythrocytes compared to all other states. Conversely, the population of highly resistant erythrocytes showed a significant decrease relative to the previous stages of the study. The level of ultra‐highly resistant cells remained relatively high compared to the winter control. Achieving a body temperature of 37 °C did not result in complete normalisation of the erythrocyte population composition.
During the hibernation–arousal cycle, the population composition of erythrocytes undergoes significant changes. These may be attributed both to alterations within the erythron system and to structural modifications of erythrocyte membranes, which change their sensitivity to hemolytic agents.
The objective of the present study was to investigate the epizootiology of dictyocaulosis in small ruminants and the ecology of its causative agent, Dictyocaulus filaria, within two natural‐landscape zones of Armenia – namely, the semi‐desert zone (375–700 m above sea level) and the mountain‐steppe zone (1200–2000 m above sea level). The research was conducted during the autumn–winter period of 2024 in both private and commercial sheep farms across the republic.
Fecal samples from 356 sheep of two age groups (1–2 years and over 2 years) were examined using the coprolarvoscopy method. Additionally, 56 sheep (24 young and 32 adult animals) were examined by partial helminthological necropsy.
The indices of prevalence (extensity) and intensity of invasion were determined. The prevalence rate in the lowland zone ranged between 25.26–33.33 %, while in the highland zone it varied between 31.79–40.0 %. Overall, infection rates in the mountain‐steppe zone were 13.9 % higher compared to those observed in the lowland zone. A similar pattern was recorded with respect to the intensity of Dictyocaulus invasion: in the lowland zone, the intensity varied between 16 ± 0.82 and 29 ± 1.39 larvae per 5 g of feces, while in the highland zone it ranged between 22 ± 0.68 and 31 ± 1.09 larvae.
Young sheep consistently demonstrated higher prevalence and intensity indices of invasion compared to adult animals in both ecological zones of Armenia. The results obtained indicate that Dictyocaulus filaria infection among sheep remains at a relatively high level within both naturallandscape zones of the republic.
MYCOLOGY
The current work is aimed to provide data on the first finding of Hericium cirrhatum in the Republic of Dagestan, new localities of Hericium coralloides in the region, their ecological features, as well as to analyze the cultural characteristics of new Hericium strains in vitro.
The authors collected the original material during own field mycological inventories of forest ecosystems in the Republic of Dagestan in 2023–2025. Fungal specimens and strains were studied by techniques of light microscopy, solid‐phase cultivation, molecular analysis of nrDNA, as well as qualitative evaluation of enzymatic activity. All samples are deposited at the LE Mycological herbarium and the LE‐BIN culture collection (St. Petersburg).
The first data on the record of Hericium cirrhatum in the Samursky National Park and new locations of the red‐listed species H. coralloides in the Kazbekovsky and Magaramkentsky districts of the Republic of Dagestan are presented. The cultural and morphological features of three new dikaryotic strains of H. cirrhatum and H. coralloides are described. Pure culture analyses have been performed to assess the lignocellulolytic and degradation potential of these white‐rot xylotrophic species.
The data obtained can contribute to nature conservation practice, including the preservation of the gene pool of rare and little‐known fungal species.
RECREATIONAL GEOGRAPHY
The article examines the relationship between the digitalisation of travel agencies and the development of ecotourism in the Republic of Dagestan. It analyses current trends in the implementation of customer request management information systems based on the 1C:Enterprise 8.3 platform in the activities of regional travel companies.
The study is based on systems analysis, institutional analysis and the method of expert assessments.
The study demonstrates how the automation of travel agency business processes contributes to the optimization of tourist flow management, the reduction of anthropogenic pressure on natural areas and the implementation of sustainable tourism principles. Particular attention is paid to the ecological potential of the Republic of Dagestan, which includes unique natural sites that require careful treatment and a scientifically sound approach to the organization of tourism activities.
The main advantages of implementing modular information systems that allow travel companies to coordinate ecological routes, take into account recreational load and ensure compliance with environmental standards have been identified. The results of the study confirm the hypothesis that the digital transformation of the tourism industry’s information and coordination infrastructure is a necessary condition for the development of environmentally responsible tourism in regions with high natural potential. Practical recommendations have been formulated on integrating information technologies into the activities of travel agencies in the Republic of Dagestan to ensure a balance between the economic development of the industry and the preservation of the region's unique natural resources.
GEOECOLOGY
The aim of this study was to analyse strategic approaches for restoring steppe ecosystems in Russia through the lens of global practices, scientific approaches and national sustainable development programs with the aim of proposing recommendations for integrating conservation measures into state policy.
The paper addresses key degradation factors – including massive plowing, livestock overgrazing, alteration of hydrological regimes and the impact of global climate change. It provides a comparative analysis of international restoration methods: from the Conservation Reserve Program (USA), bison reintroduction projects (Canada), large‐scale shelterbelt programs in China, to renaturation projects in Europe. Russian case studies were examined in greater detail – specifically the Orenburg Nature Reserve with its Przewalski’s horse reintroduction program and the unique Pleistocene Park. The importance of interagency coordination, scientific support, government oversight and involvement of public organizations is emphasized. Focus is placed on the necessity of developing a national strategy and regulatory framework, including the creation of specialized protected areas and economic incentives for sustainable land use.
Implementation of the proposed comprehensive measures will enhance the resilience of steppe ecosystems to climatic and anthropogenic pressures, preserve biodiversity, and integrate nature conservation technologies into the Russian system of natural resource management. Successful restoration depends on collaboration between the state, scientific community, local populations and active international cooperation. This will represent a significant step toward ensuring ecological stability and sustainable development of the country’s steppe regions.
Analysis, using geoinformation technologies, of the ecological state of the pastures of the semi-desert zone of the south-west of the Nogai region, Dagestan.
The research material was based on unified methodological approaches based on a preliminary study of satellite imagery of degraded agricultural landscapes. The research materials were based on uniform methodological approaches, implemented through the preliminary study of satellite imagery of degraded agricultural landscapes. Using orthogonal (panoramic) photography and determining reflected radiation spectra based on image standards, a photographic reference image of the study area was obtained.
The sandy soils of the test site within the Terek Sand Massif (southwestern Nogai District) are characterized primarily by a light mechanical composition, a very low content of mobile forms, and a soil solution reaction ranging up to strongly alkaline. By degradation type, they are classified as deflationary with chloride-sulfate salinisation. The plant species composition is mixed herbaceous (Agropyron sibiricum + psammophytic mixed herbs) in combination with sand feather grass (Stipa joannis).
The soil cover is inherently linked with zonal and climatic factors and the specifics of the deltaic soil formation process. During the growing season, blue alfalfa (28 %) and sand wormwood (25 %) play a dominant role here. The use of a standard photographic reference image is applicable as an identifier of pasture degradation, allowing for recommendations to improve the agro-ecological situation of the semi-desert zone of Dagestan.
The aim of this study was the justification of measures for ecological optimisation of landscapes: a case study of Pervomaisky and Svetlinsky districts of Orenburg region using the basin concept.
River and lake-river basins, which largely coincide with the boundaries of municipal entities, are considered as unified natural-economic systems with interconnected components. Within the framework of the study of the current land-use structure, a comprehensive analysis was conducted of official statistical data reflecting the distribution of land resources by categories and types of permitted use.
The physical-geographical characterization of two municipal districts in Orenburg region was carried out, with a focus on morphometric parameters of river and lake basins. The analysis of land fund distribution in the compared districts revealed both significant similarities in land use and considerable structural differences, which indicate specific features of their cadastral registration and economic development. This enabled the identification of issues in natural resource management.
The basin-based approach to planning ecological optimisation of steppe landscapes enables the effective implementation of projects related to land reclamation and water body protection. Maintaining river flow continuity during low-water periods (low flow seasons) requires restrictions aimed at runoff regulation and optimal functioning of water-release structures. In the basins of small and medium-sized rivers, it is advisable to establish landscape-hydrological protected areas (PA, Protected Areas) to safeguard springs and zones of enhanced biodiversity. Existing water protection zones do not ensure protection against the degradation of landscapes associated with the hydrographic network.
This study aimed to undertake a comprehensive hydrogeological and hydrochemical assessment of groundwater in the Pakokku area, Central Myanmar, to classify water types, identify dominant hydrochemical facies and evaluate suitability for irrigation under arid conditions.
Groundwater samples from 17 bore wells, representing alluvial and Irrawaddy aquifers, were analysed. Field parameters (pH, temperature, EC, TDS) were measured in situ, and major ions were determined using standard laboratory methods. Hydrochemical facies were interpreted using Piper and Chadha diagrams, while irrigation suitability was assessed through indices (SAR, SSP, RSBC, MAR, PS, KR, PI) and Richards and Wilcox diagrams.
Results indicate two dominant facies: Ca–Mg–Cl–SO₄ and Ca–Mg–HCO₃, with 82% of samples belonging to the former, reflecting carbonate and silicate weathering. EC ranges from 480–1100 μS/cm and TDS from 310– 715 ppm, indicating fresh to slightly mineralised water. SAR values (0.99– 2.04) and SSP (<40%) classify most samples as excellent to good. Most waters fall within C2–S1 and C3–S1 fields, showing moderate salinity and low sodium hazard.
Overall, the groundwater of 14 of 17 samples is suitable for irrigation, while three show elevated salinity or magnesium hazard. Groundwater in general is assessed as fresh, stable and suitable for sustainable agricultural use with proper salinity management.
MEDICAL ECOLOGY
The aim was to study the ecological, epidemiological and clinical features of toxoplasma invasion in women of reproductive age with obstetric pathology.
112 women of reproductive age (average age 34.5+2.7 years) who were undergoing inpatient treatment at the gynecology department of maternity hospital No 2 of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Dagestan were examined for toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis was diagnosed based on the results of laboratory, clinical, and epidemiological studies.
The examined women had a complicated obstetric history (miscarriages, stillbirths, fetal malformations). In addition to obstetric pathology, these women also had gynecological pathology (cystitis, endometritis, salpingoophoritis, cervical erosion). The clinical symptoms were polymorphic – lymphadenopathy (8 people), sub-febrile fever (7 people), myalgia and arthralgia (9 people), uveitis (3 people). Women with toxoplasma invasion underwent complex antibacterial therapy with the inclusion of the polyoxidonium immunomodulator (12 mg vaginal suppositories) and the “Selzink-plus” antioxidant complex in the treatment regimen. The clinical and microbiological effectiveness of complex antibacterial therapy was 78.6 %.
The therapy conducted contributed to the regression of clinical symptoms of the disease, a decrease in laboratory parameters and an improvement in the quality of life of the women.
GENERAL PROBLEMS
The aim was to identify the most promising directions for improving the system of environmental prevention in the era of digital technologies.
The research utilised general scientific and specialized criminological methods. The digital paradigm phenomenon is a significant threat to environmental security. In advance of practical application, crime prevention theory and criminology are developing a scientific framework to address the use of environmentally hazardous digital technologies, environmental activism, extremism, and terrorism.
The thesis is put forward on improving the system of environmental prevention along several interconnected lines:
Organizational and managerial measures of environmental prevention:
- a) Strengthen state control over the use of the digital environment in the regions of the Russian Federation, considering the increasing danger of digitalisation for atmospheric air, water quality, and soil; b) Modernize the system of controlling bodies, during which digital training of specialists in the field of environmental prevention will take place. Moral and educational measures of environmental prevention:
- a) engaging the public in environmental prevention activities and solving environmental problems through online initiatives; b) integrating positive aspects of religion, traditions, customs, and social control into the system of environmental prevention as components for fostering environmental culture and ecological legal awareness.
Criminal law measures:
- a) increasing the penalties for environmental crimes; b) introducing criminal liability for legal entities; c) reforming the correctional system.
The current state and features of the functioning of light industry production facilities, as well as the features of the implementation of light industry goods, require the introduction of resource-saving, environmentally sound approaches to the design and production processes of products that allow the maintenance of consumer level of quality and reduction of the amount of waste. One of the promising concepts is the zero waste fashion concept, which aims to achieve zero waste design.
The article discusses tested directions of designing garments, taking into account the maximally possible minimisation of waste during cutting. The basis of these developments was the substantiation of calculations of elementary parts (modules), the organisation of the spatial form of products and the formation of the outline of the layout of parts in a rectangular frame in accordance with the geometric characteristics of materials.
Experimental data are presented, confirming the effectiveness of the implementation of these design directions in production. The environmental and resource aspects of applying an ecological approach at the design stage within the framework of the cyclical economy are discussed. It is concluded that introducing such developments into the production process at the enterprises of the garment industry is expedient.
In the context of an excess of waste in the form of used clothing items and inter-pattern and end-of-line residues at garment industry enterprises, as well as the growing environmental responsibility of manufacturers and consumers, the proposed developments allow increasing the degree of usage of materials, reducing the percentage of waste, and expanding conditions of operation of products, thereby extending service life. The described approach is economically justified and provides good consumer characteristics in the industrial production of samples.
ISSN 2413-0958 (Online)




































