Within the framework of the study, the effect of crossbreeding Romanov and Edilbaev sheep breeds on the quality characteristics and energy value of meat was investigated. The research subjects were purebred wethers of the Romanov breed (group I), their first- and second-generation crossbreeds with the Edilbaev breed (½ Romanov × ½ Edilbaev - group II; ¼ Romanov × ¾ Edilbaev - group III). Analysis of the obtained data revealed a significant crossbreeding effect on the studied parameters. In particular, crossbred individuals from groups II and III substantially outperformed purebred animals from group I in terms of dry matter content in muscle tissue - by 41.56 and 54.48%, respectively; protein yield - by 39.42 and 50.45%; extractable fat level - by 52.80 and 76.06%. Furthermore, purebred wethers from group I showed lower values compared to the first- and second-generation crossbreds (groups II and III) in energy concentration per 1 kg of muscle tissue (by 172 and 328kJ); energy yield in carcass tissue (by 23.93 and 32.03 MJ); maturity level (by 0.55 and 1.02%). At the same time, the protein-to-fat ratio remained nearly identical across all groups. The second-generation crossbreds (Group III) demonstrated the highest values across the entire set of analysed parameters.
Understanding the causes and mechanisms of squamous cell carcinoma in animals is an important issue in veterinary medicine and basic science. This study provides a detailed analysis of the interaction between oncogenic processes and develops a preliminary algorithm and mathematical model for predicting survival based on tumor morphology, with an emphasis on cases showing atypical cellular structures. There is no clear consensus on the etiology of malignant cell transformation in cats, nor are there well-defined criteria for differentiating contributing factors in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Predicting survival and metastasis of SCC in cats remains challenging despite advances such as standardized systems. The study revealed a relationship between morphological characteristics of SCC in cats and survival: degree of differentiation, cellular atypism, bone invasion, mitotic index, and necrosis. An experimental model has been developed to predict risks but requires validation on independent datasets due to the small sample size. Recommendations for implementing the model in veterinary practice have been developed. Thus, further investigation of factors influencing feline cancer development is essential. This will aid not only in predicting survival but also in the effective prevention and treatment of cancer - a key goal of modern oncology.
The problem of translocation of the systemic pesticide imidacloprid in potato plants is addressed. The aim of the study was to investigate the pathways of movement, the dynamics of accumulation, and the degradation of the active substance in different plant parts. The field experiment was conducted in the Leningrad Region on the potato variety Udacha, with sampling of aboveground biomass from different parts of whole plants and tubers after treatment. Chemical analysis was performed using an in-house method based on the QuEChERS methodology with HPLC-UV detection. The results confirmed the predominantly xylem-mediated transport of imidacloprid, with maximum concentrations found in the upper foliage. A retrograde redistribution of the active substance downward along the foliage was observed 24 hours after treatment, which may be attributed to reverse flow in the xylem associated with nocturnal root pressure and guttation. Accumulation of imidacloprid residues in tubers was detected, with a peak concentration of 0.074 mg/kg on day 7, exceeding the established maximum residue limit (MRL) of 0.05 mg/kg. This finding suggests a possible downward (basipetal) transport, which is atypical for classic xylem-mobile compounds. The novelty of this study lies in the comprehensive experimental identification of the possible translocation pathways of imidacloprid and the assessment of its redistribution and degradation within the plant. The practical significance is demonstrated by the proven need for strict adherence to the pre-harvest interval for this pesticide on potatoes, as a temporary but significant exceedance of the MRL poses a potential toxicological risk.
The aim of the study was to determine the content of heavy metals in native propolis and its extracts: alcoholic extracts (5%, 20%, and concentrated 70%) and aqueous extracts of propolis prepared via different methods, in order to optimize production technology and minimize the transfer of toxic metals into the final product. The concentrations of three toxic metals (Cr, Cd, Pb) were determined in native propolis samples from the Ryazan region and in the indicated extracts. The content of these pollutants was assessed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The results showed the presence of all analyzed metals in native propolis samples. The concentrations of elements ranged from 0 to 0.92 mg/kg for Pb, from 0 to 0.2 mg/kg for Cd, and from 0 to 1.54 mg/kg for Cr. Native propolis can be considered an indicator of toxic metals in the environment. For all analyzed metals, a significant decrease in their concentration was observed upon transfer into ethanolic and aqueous propolis extracts, making the product safe for consumption. The presence of toxic heavy metals necessitates quality control of bee products before their use as food additives. Given that bee products are highly heterogeneous and vary in elemental content depending on environmental factors, standards should be developed to regulate permissible levels of inorganic pollutants.
During the development of local and systemic infections of humans and animals, phytopathology, degradation of natural and synthetic polymers, residential and industrial structures, the adaptive potential of pathogens is inhibited by QS molecules that block the synthesis of intercellular communication inducers. The aim of the study was to analyze the dynamics of changes in morphofunctional parameters during the initiation, development, and dispersion of Aspergillus spp. fungi. To study the phenotypic characteristics and take into account the morphometric parameters of biofilms, microorganisms were cultivated at 35 ± 2.0°C for 168 ± 1h. Cultures of A. flavus, A. fumigatus, and A. niger microorganisms are fast-growing; depending on the composition of the nutrient media and the cultivation time, they differed both in the volume of aerial mycelium and in the staining of the reverse side. During the implementation of intercellular communication processes at the early stages of development, adhesion of conidia to the substrate surface was initiated. Due to the apical growth of germinal tubules, filiform structures - hyphae - subsequently differentiated. As cultivation time increased, areas of significant hyphal consolidation emerged, and conidiogenic structures differentiated. General patterns of heterogeneous biofilm development during the representation of QS signaling molecules are mediated by growth cyclicity and population adaptation to environmental factors. Understanding the mechanisms of initiation, persistence, and dispersion during adventitious sporulation and filamentation of micromycetes will facilitate the optimization of long-term retrospective mycological studies, the development of effective methods for biofilm eradication, and the rationalization of the use of fungal biosynthetic activity in biotechnology and bioremediation.
