Regulatory Mechanisms in Biosystems

Morphological-anatomic analysis of the medicinal plant raw material of the herb Daucus carota

M. Hrytsyna — 2025-10-27

Daucus carota (wild carrot ) is a wild plant with unlimited resources used in pharmacology. Its medicinal raw materials are fruits ( Fructus dauci ), but inflorescences and leaves have various biologically active substances. There is a need for their detailed study. The research study aims to describe in detail this biennial herb's anatomical and morphological characteristics, which are promising for phytotherapeutic use. The D. carota leaves are short-petiolate, deep green, oblong in outline, three times pinnately dissected, with incised-toothed lobes, pubescent with one-, rarely two-, three-celled sharp hairs. Up the shoot, the leaves are sessile, forming a sheath; their terminal lobes gradually become oblong. The epidermis on the lower side of the leaf has rectangular cells with slightly curved walls and a diacytic stomatal apparatus. Under it lies the collenchyma. Along the veins are pointed, one-celled, warty hairs. The epidermis on the upper side is formed from small polygonal, cells; stomata are single. Columnar parenchyma is formed by 1 – 2 rows of elongated cells. The spongy tissue consists of wide, irregularly shaped cells that do not fit tightly together. There is a layer of special cells in which assimilates accumulate at the border between the spongy and palisade tissues. The conducting bundle is closed, bilateral, surrounded by sheath cells. The inflorescence is a compound umbel, each ray forming a secondary umbel. At the base of the compound umbel there is a spathe of pinnately dissected leaves. The marginal flowers of the outer umbels have petals of different sizes, incised into unequal lobes, with veins, yellowish-white with pink edges. In the inner flowers of the umbels and the inner umbels of the complex inflorescence, the flowers have five identical, broadly oval, white petals , incised in the middle, and curved upwards. Their epidermal cells are oval, large, with nuclei and papillary hairs. Since a high content of coumarins and pyrocatechins was found in the inflorescence of D. carota , the diagnostic features of its medicinal raw material ( the herb ) were described for further scientific research, writing a monograph for the European Pharmacopoeia and creating new herbal medicines based on it.

COI gene-based identification and phylogenetic analysis of silkworm (Bombyx mori) from Changa Manga Forest, Pakistan

H. Alam — 2025-09-28

The silkworm ( Bombyx mori ) is an important species in the sericulture industry, which contributes significantly to global silk production. However, identifying and distinguishing different strains of B. mori has been challenging, especially at the larval stages, where morphological similarities are prominent. This study aims to assess the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of B. mori from the Changa Manga Forest, Punjab, Pakistan, by using mtDNA COI gene sequences. The DNA was extracted from thorax tissue and amplified using the COI gene’s universal primers. The obtained DNA sequences were trimmed and analyzed using BioEdit. After trimming the ambiguous bases, the DNA sequences were submitted to Genba n k and accession numbers were obtained. The phylogenetic analysis was performed through Neighbor-joining method using 100 bootstrap pseudo-replicates in MEGA X. The results showed that the B. mori strains present in Pakistan exhibited a high d e gree of genetic identity with Chinese strains. The mean genetic divergence of B. mori from Bombyx mandarina was found to be 0.016 ± 0.003. Furthermore, entropy plot analysis revealed both conserved and variable regions within the COI gene. The present study underscores the potential of the COI gene as a key marker for silkworm species identification and genetic characterization, contributing to the improvement of sericulture practices. The findings also have implications for biodiversity conservation and forensic applications in the sericulture industry. Future research with larger sample sizes across different regions will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic diversity and strain characteristics of B. mori , which is crucial for enhancing silk production and sustainable sericulture practices.

Spatio-temporal analysis of African Swine Fever in Ukraine over 2020–2024

V. V. Ukhovskyi — 2025-09-18

African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease of pigs, causing devastating losses to swine production globally. Since its first detection in Ukraine in 2012, ASF has remained a critical challenge for the national pig industry, threatening both food security and economic stability. The ongoing spread of ASF in Ukraine is exacerbated by insufficient biosecurity, illegal pork circulation, and uncontrolled backyard slaughter, particularly under wartime conditions. This study provides a retrospective spatio-temporal analysis of ASF outbreaks across Ukraine during 2020–2024. Official data from regional laboratories of the State Service of Ukraine on Food Safety and Consumer Protection were collected and analyzed. Descriptive statistics, choropleth mapping, kernel density estimation, and standard deviational ellipses were a p plied using QGIS 3.28 to assess the dynamics, geographical distribution, and seasonal trends of confirmed ASF cases in domestic pigs and wild boars. A total of 185 outbreaks were recorded over the five-year period: 151 in domestic pigs and 34 in wild boars. The highest number of outbreaks occurred in 2024 (85), which is 9.4 times higher than in 2022 (9). Two se a sonal peaks were identified: a major one in July–August and a smaller one in November. These trends suggest that the warm-season peak is likely linked to the distribution of infected pork products, while the colder months favor virus survival in the environment. Central Ukraine (particularly Kyiv, Poltava, and Kirovohrad regions), Chernihiv ( Northern Ukraine) and Mykolaiv (south) regions showed the highest density of outbreaks and the largest number of slaughtered pigs, with over 98 , 128 head slaughtered due to ASF during the study period. The analysis confirms that ASF incidence is geographically clustered and persistent in the central part of Ukraine. The disease dynamics trends in domestic pigs closely mirror the ove r all trend observed in both domestic pigs and wild boars. The results highlight the importance of improving surveillance systems, enforcing backyard farm controls, and implementing risk-based biosecurity interventions. Spatial analysis tools proved highly effective for identifying high-risk zones and guiding veterinary decision-making.

Kinetic properties of glutathione-S-transferase in prostate gland biopsies of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and chronic prostatitis

M. E. Kushynska — 2025-11-14

The molecular and stromal mechanisms associated with the pathogenesis of prostate hyperplasia as a metabolic disorder are not yet fully understood, but it is believed that the etiology of hyperplasia is influenced by a number of factors, including aging, hormonal changes, metabolic syndrome, dietary factors, inflammation, oxidative stress, and, more recently, suppression of apo p tosis in prostate tissue. A number of studies emphasize the disruption of pro/antioxidant status in the development of prostate hyperplasia. The aim of the research is to study the activity and kinetic characteristics of glutathione-S-transferase (GsT) in pro s tate biopsies from patients with benign hyperplasia and hyperplasia with chronic prostatitis. The prostate tissue (biopsies) from two groups of patients were used. Group 1 consisted of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (n = 14); group 2 consisted of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and chronic prostatitis (n = 14). It was shown that GsT activity in the soluble fraction of prostate biopsies from patients with benign hyperplasia with chronic prostatitis was 1.60 times higher than in patients without chronic prostatitis. It was found that the kinetics of the GsT reaction is consistent with the patterns of a zero-order reaction in the range of 0–3 min: in this time interval, the dependence graph of the product formation on the incubation period was practically linear. It was shown that the value of V ₀ in patients with prostatic hyperplasia with chronic prostatitis wa s almost twice as high as that in patients without chronic prostatitis. Over the entire range of GSH concentrations, enzyme activity in samples from patients with inflammation was higher than in patients without chronic prostatitis. Similar changes were also observed with an increase in the concentration of 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene in the incubation medium at a constant GSH concentrations. Calculation of the kinetic parameters of GsT activity shows that the maximum reaction rate of accumulation of the optically active dinitrobenzene conjugate, determined by GSH, was 1.44 times higher in patients with chronic prostatitis compared to the first group. The affinity constant for GSH in this group of patients was 2.28 times higher compared to patients without chronic prostatitis. When interpre t ing the obtained kinetic parameters determined by GSH, it is shown that GsT activity in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia without chronic prostatitis is reduced both due to a decrease in the enzyme reaction rate (V _max decreases) and due to a increase in the enzyme's affinity for GSH (KGSH decreases).

Comparative flower morphology of the Anthericum liliago and Cordyline fruticosa (Asparagaceae)

O. S. Fishchuk — 2025-09-08

The structure of Anthericum liliago and Cordyline fruticosa flowers was studied on permanent cross-sectional and longitu dinal sections using a light microscope. The genus Anthericum belongs to the subfamily Agavoideae, the family Asparagaceae, which is characterized by the capsular spherical to three-faced fruit. The flowers are pollinated by hymenopterans, while the seed s are distributed by the wind and flowering period extends from June through August. The genus Cordyline belongs to the subfamily Lomandroideae, the family Asparagaceae and has small white to mauve flowers form ed on panicles. Flowering occurs from September to October. Fruit is an orange-red berry, ripening from December to March. This species propagates easily from seeds, suckers or stem cuttings. Micromorphological studies of the flower are considered as a way for detection of unknown plant features, adjustment of plants to specialized ways of pollination and determining the first stages of morphog e nesis of fruit, and further use of these features in taxonomy. 15 flowers of A . liliago and C . fruticosa were sectioned using standard methods of Paraplast embedding and serial sectioning at 20 micron thickness. Sections were stained with s afranin and Astra Blau and mounted in Eukitt. It was found that in the studied species the tepals have three-bundle traces. The vascular system of A . liliago consists of three dorsal bundles of the carpel and three pairs of smaller vascular bundles – roots of the ventral complex, which branch higher and form twelve bundles of the carpel (ventral complex) at the level of the ovary base. The outer vascular bundles form three-bundle traces of the outer and inner tepals, the other vascular bundles merge and form a continuous central cylinder. The trace of the ovules is single-bundle. For the first time, the following gynoecium zones were detected in A . liliago : sterile synascidiate with a height of about 360 μm, symplicate 180 μm, fertile hemisymplicate with a height of 1100 μm – the middle part of the ovary with two ovules and asymplicate. The total height of the septal nectary is 1580 μm. The vascular system of C . fruticosa forms a circle of seven vascular bundles, from which three dorsal carpel bundles extend and, in the center, there remain three vascular bundles on the radii of the septa – the roots of the ventral complex. Each of the three ventral bundles of the gynoecium divides into two, forming six ventral vascular bundles, which are located in the ovary septa and form the traces of the ovules. The trace of the ovules is single-bundle. In the gynoecium of C . fruticosa there are three vertical zones: a short sterile synascidiate with a height of about 220 μm, fertile hemisymplicate with a height of 1540 μm – the middle part of the ovary and asymplicate. The total height of the septal nectary is 1720 μm. The ovary roof is 200 μm in A . liliago and 320 μm in Cordyline fruticosa . Triple dorsal bundles of carpels in C . fruticosa have been identified, which could be considered as adaptation of different stages of morphogenesis of fruit to dehiscence. The new data obtained by the vascular anatomy of the flower and the presence of different ovary zones are a significant addition to information about anatomical and morphological features of the studied species, which can be further used in the taxonomy of the family Asp a ragaceae.

Molecular docking of GAD to gut pathogen targets: New prospects for probiotic therapy in post-traumatic stress disorder

N. V. Boyko — 2025-09-22

The human gut microbiome is increasingly understood as a central regulator of brain function through the complex bidirectional system known as the gut - brain axis. One of the most influential microbial metabolites involved in this communication is gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that plays a critical role in regulating anxiety and stress responses. Probiotics that are capable of producing gamma-aminobutyric acid, also called psychobiotics, are now regarded as promising candidates for innovative therapeutic approaches in trauma-related psychiatric conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder. The findings of this study reveal that probiotic-derived glutamate decarboxylase, the enzyme responsible for gamma-aminobutyric acid synthesis, exhibits selective and high-affinity interactions with enzymes originating from pathogenic microorganisms in the gut. Strong binding was observed with dihydrofolate reductase and beta-lactamases, which are essential for pathogen survival and resistance. These interactions were stabilized through salt bridges, hydrogen bonds, and aromatic stacking involving conserved residues such as glutamate-25, arginine-42, and phenylalanine-20. In contrast, the interactions with enzymes from commensal gut bacteria were weak, transient, and non-inhibitory, suggesting that the probiotic enzyme selectively targets pathogens while sparing beneficial microbial species. In addition, probiotic strains capable of producing glutamate decarboxylase demonstrated pronounced antagonism against members of the Ent e robacteriaceae family, a group strongly associated with microbial imbalance and psychiatric comorbidities. This dual effect – direct antimicrobial activity together with enhancement of gamma-aminobutyric acid availability in the gut – points to an important role for probiotic glutamate decarboxylase in both microbiota restoration and modulation of neuroimmune communication. Taken together, these results highlight the therapeutic promise of gamma-aminobutyric acid-producing probiotics. Their ability to simultaneously suppress pathogenic bacteria and increase neuroactive metabolite levels, without disrupting commensal populations, underscores their potential as safe and effective psychobiotic interventions. Future investigations should focus on confirming these effects in vivo and on translating them into clinical strategies for trauma-related mental health disorders.

Hyaluronic acid: Innovations and prospects in biology and medicine

A. A. Seliuta — 2025-09-24

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural glycosaminoglycan found in all tissues and body fluids of vertebrates, including those of humans. Its biological functions vary with molecular weight. As the main component of the extracellular matrix, HA, owing to its high water-binding capacity, plays a critical role in maintaining tissue hydration, osmotic balance, lubrication, and cellular activity. It influences cell proliferation, differentiation and migration, inflammation, immunomodulation, angiogenesis, and other biological processes. This article reviews recent advances in HA applications across regenerative medicine, orthopedics, derma tology, neurology, dentistry, cosmetology, cryobiology, drug delivery, oncology, and the food industry. E ffectiveness of HA in wound healing depends largely on its molecular weight: high molecular weight HA exhibits immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects, whereas low molecular weight HA promotes immunostimulation and amplifies inflammation. Hydrogels based on HA and its derivatives have gained prominence as potential treatments for bone diseases. Advances in 3D printing enable precise control of scaffold architecture and porosity, which is essential for mimicking native bone tissue, and allow int e gration of HA-based hydrogels with other materials to generate composite scaffolds with enhanced performance. In dentistry, HA is commonly used for diverse procedures, including papilla regeneration injections, implant coating, topical treatment of oral ulcers, supplementation to platelet-rich fibrin, plasma and growth factors, use as a matrix for encapsulation of stem cells and signalling molecules and as a nanocarrier of drugs, and therapy of denture- or surgery-induced stomatitis and irritation. In op h thalmology, HA is used in eye drops to relieve eye dryness and to improve contact lens tolerance. Due to its viscosity, HA is useful in various ophthalmic procedures, including cataract surgery, vitreoretinal surgery and glaucoma treatment. In cryobiol o gy, HA is being explored as part of complex cryoprotectant formulations. For example, HA is known to be able to neutralize free radicals and to protect cells from reactive oxygen species generated by cryoprotectants. The article also highlights prospects for the rising use of innovative HA-based products to advance current medical practices and biotechnologies.

Substituting fishmeal with insect protein: Impact on growth and growth hormone gene expression in Labeo rohita

N. Ismat — 2025-09-05

The study investigates the impact of substituting fishmeal with insect protein , specifically black soldier fly (BSF) and mea l worm (MW) larvae , on the growth performance and growth hormone (GH) gene expression in Labeo rohita . The experiment was conducted in triplicates for 60 days in 30 aquaria with ten fingerlings of Labeo rohita in each of them. BSF and MW - based diets were used with the following levels of inclusion ; 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% . The results revealed that moderate inclusion levels (75% BSF and 50% MW) enhanced growth performance of L . rohita . The 75% BSF diet resulted in the highest weight gain (14.53 ± 0.43 g), final weight (20.08 ± 0.38 g) and specific growth rate (SGR) (1.837 ± 0.038) with the lowest feed conve r sion ratio (FCR) (1.313 ± 0.071). In contrast, the 100% BSF diet showed reduced weight gain (12.04 ± 0.19 g) and SGR (1.643 ± 0.023). The 50% mealworm based diet achieved the highest weight gain (15.56 ± 0.41 g), final weight (21.90 ± 0.43 g) and SGR (1.763 ± 0.029) with the lowest FCR (1.140 ± 0.070). In comparison, the 100% mealworm diet resulted in the lowest growth performance with a final weight of 19.04 ± 0.44 g, weight gain of 12.68 ± 0.46 g, and SGR of 1.563 ± 0.042. Gene expression analysis showed that BSF inclusion at 75% and mealworm inclusion at 50% upregulated GH and IGF1 expression correlating with improved growth. However, excessive inclusion (100%) of both insect meals led to a decline in gene expression and growth performance. The findings are largely consistent with previous studies but also highlights the species specific differences in the response to insect based proteins as well as the importance of optimizing inclusion levels to avoid metabolic imbalances. Future studies should also attempt to understand the complete lifecycle effect of BSF and MW based diets , including the effect on repr o ductive success of fish and their capacity to resist disease challenge.

Assessment of administration pattern of laxatives in pharmacies in Nasiriya City, Iraq

L. Jabbar — 2025-09-11

Constipation affects 15–20% of the global population and is classified as primary or secondary. Primary constipation involves neuromuscular or sensory dysfunction, while secondary causes include medications, metabolic disorders, or structural abnormalities. The objective of this study was to determine the laxatives most frequently dispensed by the community pharmacists in Nasiriyah city, Southern Iraq. The data included information on dosage forms, dose, frequency, interval between doses, safety in pregnancy and lactation, and adverse reactions. The research took place during 10 months (from January to October 2023). Bisacodyl was found to be the most widely prescribed laxative (48.7%) in Nasiriyah, followed by lactulose (25.0%). Oral forms were preferred (81.2%). Safety was the primary decision factor (35.0%) and efficacy and cost as well had significant roles. W e found that bisacodyl is more popular in Nasiriyah than U.S. or Europe , where lactulose is mo re frequently used . This indicates that differences in the medical practice, recommendations, and availability of drugs themselves impact regional prescribing . In Southern Iraq, bisacodyl remains dominant, with minor variations among governorates. These findings highlight the need for localized research to understand and improve healthcare practices. Given the variety of laxatives and their impact on safety and efficacy, assessing their usage is crucial. Our findings recommend aligning laxative prescription practices with WHO guid e lines. We also suggest implementing a stricter follow-up system for over-the-counter sales in Iraqi pharmacies to ensure proper use and reduce risks from misuse. This is vital for improving public health.

Prognostication of hypocalcemia in dairy goats

V. Sakhniuk — 2025-09-12

Metabolic diseases significantly affect the health, productivity and reproductive performance of goats. Therefore, accurate pr e diction and early diagnosis are extremely important for their effective treatment and prevention. The aim of this study was to inve s tigate the use of linear regression and ROC analyses for prognostication hypocalcemia in dairy goats. The study included clinically healthy (n = 321) and subclinically hypocalcemic (n = 216) pregnant and lactating animals. The concentration of total calcium and ionised calcium, the activity of total alkaline phosphatase and its bone and intestinal isoenzymes were determined in blood serum using standardised methods. According to linear regression analysis and ROC analysis, the determination of ionised calcium co n tent in the blood serum of goats has high diagnostic value for prognostication hypocalcemia, and it is advisable to measure total calcium concentration for monitoring studies of its metabolism. Based on the results of regression analysis, we did not find a stati s tically significant relationship between total calcium and its ionised fraction with the activity of total alkaline phosphatase and its bone and intestinal isoenzymes in the serum of goats, as the coefficients of determination in linear regression analysis were low. However, based on ROC analysis between these values, we found high diagnostic significance of total alk a line phosphatase and its isoenzymes for prognostication of hypocalcemia in goats.

Developmental features of small spruce bud scale (Physokermes hemicryphus) (Hemiptera, Coccidae) on spruce trees in arboretums and urban plantings

V. Melenti — 2025-10-13

Small spruce bud scale ( Physokermes hemicryphus Dalman, 1826) is one of the most widespread and harmful phytophagous insects in spruce stands. A feature of its development is the clear synchronization of phenological stages with the seasonal growth dynamics of Norway spruce ( Picea abies (L.) H. Karst, 1881) and blue spruce ( Picea pungens Engelmann , 1875), which ensures a high level of pest adaptability and complicates control measures. Studies have shown that the pest overwinters as the first-instar larvae, which resume feeding in early spring, immediately after the start of host tree vegetation. The further development of the pest coincides with spruce growth: the formation of second-instar larvae and young females is observed precisely during the active elongation of shoots and the growth of needles. This leads to competition for assimilates and significant depletion of trees, which is manifested in a decrease in branch growth, loss of decorative properties and general weakening of the stands. An important factor is weather conditions. Increased spring temperatures accelerate development and generation change, while cool periods prolong individual stages, but increase the duration of larval feeding, increasing harmfulness. Outbreaks of P. hemicryphus not only limit tree growth but also create conditions for its secondary infection by fungal pathogens, in particular sooty molds that develop on honeydew. Thus, P. hemicryphus is a pest and worsens the health of spruce forests. Phenological observations are of key importance for timely forecasting of the abundance of P. hemicryphus . Recognizing the periods of active feeding of larvae and generation formation allows one to optimiz e the forest protection system, in particular, the use of biological agents and the rational use of insecticides. The obtained results confirm the need for comprehensive monitoring of the pest phenology, considering regional climatic features, which is the basis for the develo p ment of effective protection methods.

Evaluation of levels of bradykinin, intercellular adhesion molecule-ICAM and electrolytes in patients with ischemic stroke

I. A. A. K. Al-Samarai — 2025-10-19

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, especially among the elderly. Fifty blood samples were collected from patients (25 females and 25 males) suffering from ischemic stroke (IS) who visited the central health laboratories at the Medical City. The p atients belonged to different age groups ranging from 45 – 65 years. Twenty samples (10 females and 10 males) were collected from healthy individuals who did not suffer from any diseases as a control group. Several biochemical parameters were tested, such as intercellular adhesion molecule ( ICAM ) , bradykinin , sodium and potassium in the patient’s blood serum. The results of the present study indicated a significant elevat ion in ICAM, bradykinin , Na, K in the blood serum of the patient group compared to the control group. The results also showed a highly significant positive correlation between bradykinin concentration and ICAM in the blood serum of the patient group, as the value of the correlation coefficient was 0.724. The results also showed that the area under the curve value for the studied variables, ICAM, bradykinin, was excellent, so they can be cons i dered important diagnostic variables for patients with ischemic stroke.

Comprehensive phytochemical and antioxidant evaluation of Salvia officinalis via in vitro and in silico analyses, ADME prediction

Z. Benouadah — 2025-11-25

Currently, there is considerable interest in traditional medicine and herbal treatments. Salvia officinalis L., commonly known as sage, is a Mediterranean plant and classified under the family Lamiaceae. It is an important medicinal plant utilized for diverse therapeutic applications. The aim of this work was to investigate the phenolic profile and to evaluate the antioxidant activity of aqueous and methanolic extracts of S. officinalis . Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, coumarins, and saponosides in both solvent extracts. The phenolic content was determined by using the Folin–Ciocalteu phenol reagent, and the flavonoid content was determined by the aluminum chloride colorimetric method. The outcome showed that the aqueous extract had a higher total phenol content (55.06 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g extract) compared to the methanol extract (46.51 ± 0.02 mg GAE/g extract). On the other hand, the methanol e x tract had a higher flavonoid content (20.70 ± 0.13 mg QAE/g extract) compared to the aqueous extract (12.12 ± 0.01 mg QAE/g extract). Furthermore, the methanol extract also exhibited significantly higher antioxidant activity (12.31 ± 0.58 µg/mL) compared to the aqueous extract (23.48 ± 2.52 µg/mL). Therefore, the obtained results indicate that S. officinalis represents a valuable source of natural antioxidants. The molecular docking analysis showed that the phenolic compounds of Salvia officinalis interact differently with the main antioxidant enzymes: catalase (2CAG), glutathione peroxidase (2P31), and superoxide dismutase (1CB4). Salvianolic acid exhibited the highest affinity toward catalase (ΔG = –10.9 kcal/mol), followed by cirsimaritin and kaempferol (ΔG = –10.2 kcal/mol). Rosmarinic acid and salvianolic acid effectiv e ly bind to glutathione peroxidase, while quercetin showed the strongest affinity for superoxide dismutase SOD.

Association of TCF7L2 gene expression with clinical and biochemical markers in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Babylon Province

T. H. Mgheer — 2025-09-29

T2DM is a long-term, progressive metabolic disease characterized by elevated blood glucose levels brought on by insulin resistance and a decline in pancreatic β-cell function. Our r esearch aimed to examine the correlation between the levels of parameters (FBS, HbA1c, TG, TC, HDL, LDL, and VLDL) and the genetic expression of the TCF7L2 gene in patients with T2DM (G2) in comparison to the control group (G1). There were 200 participants in the study: 100 patients with T2DM (G2) and 100 ethnically matched controls (G1). The T2DM patients were nonsmok ers between the ages of 45 and 60 who attended the Marjan Teaching Hospital, Specialized Diabetes Center in Babylon Governorate, Iraq . Together with the genetic expression analysis of the TCF7L2 gene, which was confirmed to be pertinent to the clinical symptoms and biochemical features of the present investigation, specific tests were performed for the biochemical parameters of FBS, HbA1c, TG, TC, HDL, LDL, and VLDL. The study found that the re was a significant difference between the two study groups in the levels of FBS, HbA1c, TC, and the gene expression level of the TCF7L2 gene. T he mean values for the parameters of FBS, HbA1c, TC, HDL, LDL and VLDL were high in the T2DM group (G2) compared to the control group (G1). B y studying the Pearson correlation, a correlation was found between FBS and HbA1c, between FBS and TG, and between HbA1c and TG, where the Pearson correlation value was signif i cant . The study concluded that low gene expression of TCF72 is associated with high FBS, HbA1c, and TG levels in patients with T2DM, and that there is a correlation between clinical parameters in patients with T2DM . .

Integrative model of plant immunity to pathogens and stresses: A multilevel signal-metabolic network

S. H. Khablak — 2025-10-01

The study presents an innovative integrative model of plant immune architecture, based on the utilization of autophagy as a key regulator of multilevel immune cascades. The proposed approach establishes the foundation for a new practical paradigm in crop science – “immune management,” which enables targeted regulation of the balance between autophagy, reactive oxygen species (ROS), hormonal signaling, and regenerative processes. The concept of autophagic priming provides the basis for preventive immunity, substantially enhancing both the speed and efficiency of crop adaptation to diverse pathogens and stress factors. The practical significance of this model lies in its potential for the development of immunomodulatory bioproducts, the breeding of cultivars with broad-spectrum stress resistance, and the design of flexible agro-technological schemes aimed at yield stability and reduced reliance on chemical crop protection. The integration of biological inducers, microbiome-based products, and precision farming technologies paves the way for next-generation agricultural systems capable of ensuring sustainable production under variable climatic conditions. The cumulative economic effect of implementing autophagic priming and fourth-generation bioproducts worldwide is estimated at 15–25 billion USD annually, highlighting their pote n tial as a key driver of global transformation in the crop protection market.

Сomponents of colostrum regulate the activity of the immune system in animals with liver fibrosis

E. G. Ivanov — 2025-10-01

Regulation of the functional activity of the cellular component of the body's immune system against the background of var i ous liver pathologies, primarily fibrosis, represents a promising approach to developing treatment strategies for such altered fun c tional states. Low molecular weight protein components (LMW) obtained from whole cow colostrum were analysed as natural regulators of immune system activity. The effect of LMW on the number of cytotoxic components in blood serum, the activity of oxygen-dependent and oxygen-independent phagocytosis, and the number of circulating immune complexes in the blood of animals with Cu-induced liver fibrosis was determined. Liver fibrosis was induced in Wistar rats by 6 consecutive injections of copper sulphate at a dose of 1 mg/100 g body weight, and after 3 days one of the groups of animals was administered LMW at a dose of 0.1 mg/100 g body weight per os daily for 6 days. It was found that animals with Cu-induced liver fibrosis had a twofold increase in cytotoxic components in the body compared to the control group. This was accompanied by a twofold increase in the spontaneous level of phagocytic activity of neutrophils (without additional stimulation with zymosan), while the functional r e serve of neutrophils was depleted (there was no stimulation with zymosan); the ability of phagocytic cells to absorb foreign su b stances was increased by only 34%, while the number of circulating immune complexes was reduced by 33%. This immune status of animals with Cu-induced liver fibrosis can be defined as a risk factor for the developmen t of an autoimmune component. Administration of LMW to animals with liver fibrosis for 6 days at a dose of 1 mg/100 g of body weight led to a decrease in phagocytic activity to the level of control indicators, restoration of the reserve of oxygen-dependent phagocytosis of neutrophils and normalisation of oxygen-independent phagocytosis indicators, while the number of circulating immune complexes corre s ponded to the control values. The restoration of cellular parameters under the influence of LMW may prevent the chronic deve l opment of liver fibrosis and its transition to cirrhosis, and further systemic studies will allow the development of treatment tactics using natural LMW.

Effects of insulin-like growth factor-1 and fibroblast growth factor-2 on the in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes

S. S. Derkach — 2025-11-20

As of now, the leading method of reproducing highly productive animals in animal husbandry is production of cattle e m bryos in in vitro conditions, in particular transvaginal ultrasound-guided oocyte aspiration with further in vitro maturation, which is currently more popular than the in vivo embryo production. Despite the broad introduction of the technique, this process is artificial, meaning limited percentage of maturated oocytes, and therefore lower final yield of embryos suitable for transplant a tion. Augmenting the success rate of oocyte cultivation in in vitro conditions would mean a greater effectiveness of reproductive technologies. Therefore, the objective of our study was to improve the culture medium for maturation of bovine oocytes by co m paring the effects of different concentrations of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and the fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2). For this purpose, the cumulus cell-oocyte complexes were divided into six experimental groups: control and groups with different concentrations (50 and 100 ng/cm ³ ) of insulin-like and fibroblast growth factors and their combination, comprising 50 ng/cm ³ of each. The effects of the growth factors were assessed by analyzing the morphological maturity of the oocytes (the cumulus e x pansion index and percentage of oocytes at the MII stage) and also the parameters of embryonic development (the percentage of cleavage and yield of blastocysts). The study revealed that insulin-like growth factor, regardless of concentration, provided no statistically significant increase in the percentage of blastocysts formed, compared with the control. Meanwhile, addition of 50 ng/cm ³ of fibroblast growth factor produced a significant, although not always statistically significant, increase in the studied parameters. The greatest support of maturation was achieved in the group with the combination of growth factors, which pr o vided the highest level of blastulation, accounting for 31.7 ± 2.9%, and a significant difference compared with the control. An optimal strategy for increasing the effeciency of maturation of bovine oocytes in in vitro conditions was a combined enrichment of the culture medium with of 50 ng/cm ³ of IGF and 50 ng/cm ³ of FGF 2, leading to the highest yield of mature oocytes that were competent for fertilization and further embryonic development of gametes.

Hematological and biochemical determinants of anemic syndrome in animals with babesiosis: A review of current data

A. Nevidnyk-Pravda — 2025-11-08

A review of Babesia infection in dogs and other animals is presented, including the life cycle, epidemiology, hematological and biochemical changes, oxidative stress, immune response, clinical manifestations, diagnostic challenges, and treatment strat e gies. Babesiosis is a multifactorial disease caused by intraerythrocytic protozoa of the genus Babesia, primarily transmitted by ticks. Species such as B. canis , B. vogeli , B. gibsoni , and B. rossi differ in pathogenicity and geographic distribution. Pathogenesis involves massive hemolysis, systemic inflammation, hepatic and renal dysfunction, metabolic disorders, and oxidative stress, leading to anemia, thrombocytopenia, changes in leukocyte composition, and organ damage. Biochemical markers include el e vated ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin, BUN, creatinine, and oxidative stress markers (MDA, LDH) with decreased antioxidant e n zymes (SOD, catalase, PON-1). Acute phase proteins (SAA, CRP) and antibody titers correlate with severity of infection and prognosis. Microscopy and serology have diagnostic limitations, while molecular methods (PCR, qPCR, LAMP) provide higher sensitivity. Clinical management requires a combined approach: specific antiprotozoal therapy, supportive care (infusions, tran s fusions), hepatoprotection, and correction of protein-energy balance. Comparative data for dogs, horses, and wild animals de m onstrate common pathogenetic mechanisms, emphasizing the role of wild reservoirs and expansion of the vector range in the spread of the disease. Integration of hematological, biochemical and immunological markers improves early diagnosis, monito r ing and prognostic assessment, especially in regions at risk of vector-borne transmission.

Drought tolerance of developed wheat genotypes based on early diagnostics

Z. M. Novak — 2025-11-08

Climate change is being observed worldwide, affecting all continents. Currently, it has the most devastating effects in the r e gions of the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in African countries, although its impact is felt across the entire planet. Global climate change necessitates the development of highly productive crop varieties and hybrids whose physiological mechanisms promote efficient metabolism and redistribution of assimilates from vegetative tissues to generative organs and seeds. A key challenge in this context remains the creation of source material resistant to abiotic stress factors, particularly drought. Mannitol can serve as a model agent for screening drought-tolerant genotypes. Its concentrations exert selective pressure on biological objects, enabling the identification of materials that exhibit neutral or reduced responses to a given stressor. As a result of intra s pecific hybridization between geographically distant forms, spring durum and bread wheat accessions were developed and used as the subject of research aimed at selecting drought-tolerant, high-yielding genotypes. The experiments were conducted under moderately continental climatic conditions during 2021–2024 at Uman National University of Horticulture (Central Ukraine). Throughout the study years, insufficient precipitation and elevated air temperatures were recorded, resulting in specific phenoty p ic responses of the breeding material. The use of mannitol solutions during germination caused a decrease in seed germination rates, as well as reductions in root and shoot length and seedling biomass in wheat samples. At the same time, genotypes di s played differential responses to mannitol concentrations, allowing the identification of breeding materials that were less affected by the stress factor. These materials can be effectively used as sources of drought-tolerance genes in breeding programs aimed at developing high-yielding spring bread and durum wheat varieties. Early diagnostics of drought tolerance using mannitol-based germination tests represents a promising tool for accelerating the selection of high-yielding and drought-tolerant crop genotypes.

Synergistic effect of some antibiotics against multidrug resistant clinical isolates Acinetobacter baumannii

G. F. Karim — 2025-10-22

Synergistic antibiotic combinations might offer an approach to overcome microbial resistance mechanisms. This work i n vestigated genetic determinants of resistan ce to antibiotics. and evaluated in vitro the impacts of several different antibiotic combinations on a panel of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) and the extended drug-resistant A. ba u mannii (XDR – A. baumannii ) strains. Clinical samples were obtained from patients hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) from August 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025. The "BD Phoenix Automated System" was employed to identify isolated bacteria at species-level, and for determination of the blaOXA-51-like gene. The isolates were screened for some c arbapen e mase genes and the IS A ba1gene using PCR. The fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) was used to detect the effect of the various antibiotics used in combination. The study used 24 strains of A. baumannii . All tested antibiotics, except for coli s tin (CL), were ineffective against the isolates. The major mechanism of resistan ce to carbapenems was the coexistence of blaOXA -51-like and IS A ba 1 genetic elements in 24(100%) isolates, foll owed by isolates carrying the blaOXA-24-like and blaNDM-1 genes, accounting for 16 (66.7%) and 8 (33.3%) of all isolates respectively. A single effective combination of CL and tigecycline (TGC) exhibited the maximum rate (100%) of synergy against th e A. baumannii sample s . The s ynergistic effect of CL in combination with TGC was confirmed , which may confer therapeutic benefits against XDR- A. baumannii . This fin d ing is valuable and emphasizes the necessity to discover novel combination therapies that are effective against virtually untrea t able XDR- A. baumannii infections. However, further clinical trials are required to verify the efficacy.

Effect of protein and fat content in artificial feeds on productive and biological parameters of Tinca tinca

R. Konopelskyi — 2025-11-08

The variety of technologies for growing tench ( Tinca tinca Linnaeus, 1758) is currently limited by the low intensity of pond aquaculture. However, the demand for it is growing and there is a need to study the physiological parameters that affect the well-being of tench during its more intensive cultivation. This study analyzed the growth intensity and the effect of different formulations of artificial feeds when growing age-1+ tench in a recirculating aquaculture system facility. Three 0.96 m ³ tanks were used for the study. The duration of cultivation was 225 days. The stocking density of age-1+ fish was 600 ind./m ³ . Three experiments were formed in which the artificial feed differed in protein and fat contents. Experiment I – artificial feed with 44% protein and 9% fat content; Experiment II – artificial feed with 46% protein and 10% fat content; Experiment III – artificial feed with 54% protein and 15% fat content. The experiments showed that the highest yield and maximum body weight were obtained in the experiment using artificial feed with 46% protein and 10% fat content. Accor d ing to the obtained survival rates and average body weight, the yield of age-1+ tench was 35.5–41.6 kg/m ³ , and the fish productivity of the tanks was within 30.6 – 36.7 kg/m ³ , the highest productivity being in experiment with a medium protein and fat content . The specific growth rate of age-1+ tench was maximum in the first two months of cultivation, and gradually decreased as they grew in October. The superiority of age-1+ fish fed with artificial feed with 46% protein content in terms of growth rate was noted only in April and June-July. Age-1+ tench of this experimental group also had a higher count of erythrocytes, neutrophils, basophils, platelets and hematocrit, as well as the relative content of neutrophils, monocytes and basophils. The analysis of blood serum showed that the content of urea, creatinine and the activity of transaminases and alkaline phosphatase in the experimental groups of tench did not have a direct dependence on the protein content in the diet of tench, but was defined by the generalized effect of the composition of each feed on protein metabolism. According to the results of the studies, it was found that the physiological needs of age-1+ tench for growing in conditions of recirculating aquaculture systems require artificial feeds with a protein content above 45% and below 10% fat.

Spirurida (Nematoda) parasites of animals in Uzbekistan

F. Akramova — 2025-10-16

We analysed our research data and available literature on the species composition of the order Spirurida, parasites of fish, birds and mammals in Central , North - Eastern and North - Western Uzbekistan, and esta b lished that Spirurida in this region are represented by 133 species belonging to the suborders Spirurina, C a mallanina and Filariina. Spirurina includes 44 species, 14 of which are parasites of birds and 30 are parasites of mammals. Camallanina are represented by 15 species, most of which are fish parasites (11 species). The largest group is Filariina (84 species), composed of parasites of land and wetland birds (64 species) and mammals (20 species). The most widespread parasites represent the following genera: Gongylonema , Phys a loptera , Rictularia , Physocephalus , Spirocerca , Parabronema , Acuaria , Tetrameres , Camallanus , Philom e tra , Ph i lometroides , Rhabdochona , Aprocta , Splendidofilaria , Ornithofilaria , Diplo t riaena , Paronchocerca , Dirofilaria , Onchocerca and Setaria . The studied Spirurida parasitise almost all organs and systems of the mentioned animals. Numerous species of invertebrates, mainly crustaceans and insects, participate in the life cycles of Spirurida. Parasitological studies of the Cyclops community , inhabitants of diverse bodies of water in Uzbekistan, show how a number of species of Cyclopidae and Gammarus are infected with larval stages of Spirurida. These crustaceans are common in water bodies and show a prevalence of infection with Spir u rida ranging from 0.1% to 0.5%. The intensity of infection is from 1 to 3 individuals. The Spirurida larvae found in crustaceans represented 8 species from the families Spiruridae, Tetrameridae, Camallanidae, Phil o metridae, Dracunculidae, and Gnathostomatidae. According to our research, crustaceans play a significant role in the circulation of pathogenic species and groups of Spirurida, which indicates the stability of the Sp i rurida-crustaceans-vertebrates parasitic system in the biogeocoenoses of Uzbekistan.

Inactivated glutathione yeast action on the activity of quails’ antioxidant system

S. Y. Dul — 2025-10-28

Antioxidant system is a key element maintaining the metabolic homeostasis in poultry, as it provides the control of a c tive oxygen specie s and prevents damage to cell structures. Disruption of this balance leads to oxidative stress , accomp a nied by intensification of lipid peroxidation, decreased enzyme activity , and reduced productivity. Quails ( Coturnix cotu r nix japonica ) are particularly sensitive to such changes, as they have a high metabolic rate combined with low resistance to zoo technical and environmental stress. In this regard, it is important to find natural products that can maintain antioxidant balance. One of these i s inactivated glutathione yeast. For example, EnzActive Protein Powder is a yeast-based suppl e ment , containing high concentrations of reduced glutathione, peptides, β-glucans, and mannan oligosaccharides, which can activate endogenous antioxidant defen s e mechanisms. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of feeding quails with different doses of inactivated glutathione yeast (0.3% and 0.5%) on the activity of antioxidant system enzymes : glut a thione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), the level of reduced glutathione (GSH), and the malondialdehyde (MDA) content. The experiment was conducted on 45 Manchurian quails, which were divided into three groups (control, T1 , T2) according to the analogue principle. Biochemical blood tests were performed on the 14th and 48th days. The results showed that EnzActive Protein Powder promoted an increase in the GPx, SOD, and CAT activit ies by 9.3–17.9%, an increase in the GSH levels by 7.8–14.5%, and a decrease in the MDA concentration by 11.1–19.5% co m pared with the control. The obtained data indicate a stimulating effect of the yeast product on the enzy matic and non enz y matic links of the antioxidant system. The effect was dose-dependent: more changes were observed when using a dos e of 0.5%. Thus, feeding the quails with EnzActive Protein Powder contribute d to the increased antioxidant enzyme activity, stabilization of redox homeostasis, and reduced lipid peroxidation. The results obtained confirm the relevance of using inactivated glutathione yeast as a natural treatment for oxidative stress in intensive poultry farming. Further research pro s pects include studying the effects of inactivated glutathione yeast on performance indicators, immune status, and morph o functional state of the liver in quails.

Analysis of the calving-to-conception interval variation and it relation to milk production traits of dairy cows

A. S. Kramarenko — 2025-11-07

Intensive selection for milk production has resulted in unfavorable genetic correlations with fertility, contributing to longer calving intervals, increased insemination rates, higher culling levels, and rising costs of reproductive management. This study e x amined the effects of genetic and environmental factors on the calving-to-conception interval and its relationship with milk produ c tivity traits in Holstein cows. The analysis was based on data from cows that calved at PJSC ‘Plemzavod Stepnoy’ in Zaporizhzhia region , Ukraine , between 2014 and 2017. For each animal, 305-d milk yield, milk fat percentage, and the calving-to-conception interval were recorded and analyzed using the General Linear Model. The results showed that parity, year and season of calving significantly influenced the calving-to-conception interval, whereas the effect of sire was not significant. Younger cows generally conceived sooner after calving than older cows. Over the study period, there was a clear tendency toward shorter calving-to-conception intervals, suggesting improvement in reproductive performance. Cows calving in summer and autumn also had shorter intervals than those calving in winter or spring. The joint analysis of parity and the calving-to-conception interval indicated that reproductive efficiency was closely related to milk yield and composition. Cows with moderate calving-to-conception intervals (91–120 d) produced more milk of slightly higher quality than those with shorter or longer intervals. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of managing reproductive cycles to optimize both fertility and milk productivity in Holstein herds under the produ c tion conditions of southern Ukraine.

Physiological responses of microclonally propagated willow to excessive levels of UV-B radiation

V. Yatsiv — 2025-11-18

Willow plantations represent a rapidly deployable source of lignocellulosic biomass for bioenergy and a reservoir of bioa c tive compounds for pharmaceutical use. However, their physiological resilience to increasing ultraviolet-B (UV-B; radiation with a wavelength of 280–320 nm), under current climate change scenarios, remains insufficiently characterised. This study evaluated the physiological responses of the microclonally propagated willow clone ‘Zhytomyrska-1’ to acute UV-B treatments. Our exp e riments were focused on leaf pigmentation and nitrogen-related status as indicators of stress. Uniform in vitro -derived plantlets were acclimatised in greenhouse conditions and divided into four groups: non-irradiated control and three UV-B treatments r e ceiving single acute doses of 5, 10, and 15 kJ/m². Non-destructive leaf measurements were performed with a portable multipi g ment meter (MPM-100) at seven time points during a two-month period post-exposure to capture short-, medium- and long-term effects. We determined relative chlorophyll, flavonol, and anthocyanin indices, and the nitrogen balance index (NBI) as an int e grative parameter for leaf nitrogen status. Data were analysed by both one-way and two-way ANOVA to separate the effects of dose, time and their interaction. Time (developmental stage and seasonal progression) was the dominant factor driving variation in all measured parameters, excluding anthocyanin. The contents of chlorophyll and flavonol were increased at later stages of the vegetation, on days 66 and 70. Meanwhile, the nitrogen balance index tended to decrease at the time points 10–17 days, but this effect was absent after UV-B ir radiation at 15 kJ/m², where the nitrogen balance index remained relatively stable during the st u died period. Compared to the impact of time, the effects of UV-B radiation were weaker and less consistent, in some cases i n creasing the levels of chlorophyll and the nitrogen balance index, while decreasing th e levels of anthocyanins. Overall, the willow clone ‘Zhytomyrska-1’ demonstrated relative physiological stability across the tested UV-B dose range, suggesting resilience to mo d erate increases in UV-B comparable to regional annual doses.

Epidemiological and epizootological aspects of botulism in Ukraine

L. Y. Korniienko — 2025-10-24

Botulism remains one of the most dangerous toxic infections in humans and animals, characterized by severe neuroparalytic manifestations and a high mortality rate. The causative agent Clostridium botulinum is a naturally occurring anaerobe capable of long-term preservation in spore form and production of an extremely potent botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT). Despite considerable attention being paid to this disease and changes in European veterinary legislation, botulism remains a pressing problem worldwide and, in particular, in Ukraine, both in terms of veterinary safety and public health. The study was conducted to analyze the epizootological and epidemiological characteristics of botulism in Ukraine over the past 15 years among animals and 10 years – among humans. The data sources were reports from regional laboratories of the State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection, research results from the State Scientific and Research Institute of Laboratory Diagnostics and Veterinary and Sanitary Expertise, and information from the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. All cases were confirmed by laboratory tests (immunofluorescence assay, bioassay on laboratory animals). For statistical analysis, binomial confidence intervals (BCI) calculated using the Klopper-Pearson method were used, and for visualization, the QGIS 3.16 program was used with cartographic layers of the admi n istrative boundaries of Ukraine. During the period under review, 7 , 031 positive cases of botulism were registered among animals and in feed, of which 77.9% (BCI, 77.0–78.9%) were isolates from feed and 22.1% (BCI, 21.1–23.1%) were from animals. Among the affected farm animals, pigs (41.6%), cattle (21.9%), and horses (7.8%) dominated. A significant number of cases were registered among cats, dogs, minks, foxes, wild rodents, and poultry, which were grouped into the category “others” and accounted for 28.8% (BCI, 26.5–31.1%). The highest number of positive cases among animals and feed was recorded in the Luhansk (80.2%), Vinnytsia (12.7%), and Donetsk (5.0%) regions. At the same time, between 2018 and 2024, the number of tests decreased significantly: only one positive sample was found in feed, which is more than 500 times less than in the previous seven years. Between 2015 and 2024, 1,070 cases of botulism were registered in humans, mainly in the central and northwestern regions. The results indicate a decrease in the intensity of diagnostic st u dies, which may lead to an underestimation of the real epizootic situation. It is necessary to restore syst e matic monitoring, feed control, and strengthen biosafety o n farms as key elements of botulism prevention in Ukraine.

The influence of the liposomal form of curcumin and microRNA on the course of Alzheimer’s disease

Y. H. Kot — 2025-10-29

Infiltration of inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation are associated with the onset and progression of neurodegenerative and oncological diseases. For this reason, treatment with drugs with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may be appropriate to prevent or slow the progression of these disorders. Alzheimer's disease is associated with the occurrence and progression of cerebral amyloidosis in the foci of cholinergic neurons of the neocortex and hippocampus. It is the neurons of the neocortex and hippocampus that suffer the most from the toxicity of Aβ oligomers, which subsequently form senile plaques, leading to the destruction of neuronal networks and the activation of nonspecific inflammation. Polyphenols, such as flavonoids, are characterised by potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin exhibits a wide spectrum of pharmacological activity against many chronic diseases and is able not only to inhibit cell proliferation but also to induce apoptosis by modulating several pro-inflammatory factors. Curcumin’s bioavailability is limited by its low solubility in water, so loading curcumin into appropriate nanocarriers can improve its efficacy, local deposition and distribution. Targeted delivery of pharmaceutically active ingredients is a pressing issue and, given the significant results in proteome research, is emerging as a leading issue in the study of RNA regulatory mechanisms, in particular, the divergent functions of small RNAs (microRNAs). MicroRNAs are key modulators of the genome due to their ability to influence most of the genes that code for proteins in the body. Gene therapy regulates or blocks the overexpression of a single gene at the post-transcriptional level using the corresponding microRNA. The major unresolved problem in the applic a tion of microRNAs has been the targeted delivery of these molecules. Therefore, to address the challenge of targeted delivery of microRNA to the central nervous system, it is proposed to use administration via lipid-based delivery nanosystems. The review presents the main characteristics and mechanisms of action of curcumin and microRNA on the chronic inflammatory process that consistently accompanies the progression of amyloidosis, as well as their direct inhibitory effect on the excessive formation of β-amyloid peptides. It has been shown that microRNA miR-101 can specifically interact, via its “seed” region, with the messenger RNA of the amyloid precursor protein (AβPP), thereby repressing the overexpression of the AβPP gene and preventing its amyloidogenic processing.

Clinical and diagnostic significance of oxidative stress in post-COVID olfactory dysfunction associated with acute rhinosinusitis

Y. V. Svitlychna — 2025-11-23

Anosmia is a common long-term complication of COVID-19. Its development is poorly understood. In the current study, the impact of rhinosinusitis-associated olfactory dysfunction in post-COVID-19 patients on the redox metabolism of circulating blood cells was investigated. The patients enrolled for the study suffered from rhinosinusitis with post-COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction and were tested by the Sniffin’ Sticks test to determine the olfactory function (normosmia, hyposmia, and anosmia). Thereafter, flow cytometry-based detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in circulating granulocytes, lymphocytes and erythrocytes was performed using a ROS-sensitive probe (2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate). The degree of e ryptosis was additionally detected by analysis of phospholipid membrane scrambling (Annexin V-FITC staining). According to the r e sults of olfactometry, anosmia was identified in 20 patients and hyposmia in 53 patients. Among the 57 patients who reported recovery of olfactory function, hyposmia was observed in 86% of cases on the threshold test and in 75% on the identification test. Our findings suggest that anosmia in post-COVID-19 patients is associated with elevated intracellular ROS levels in viable circ u lating granulocytes, lymphocytes and erythrocytes. Of note, elevation was found to be statistically significant compared to both normosmic and hyposmic patients. Notably, eryptosis induction was not observed in anosmic patients even on the background of oxidative damage to erythrocytes. Anosmia in post-COVID-19 promotes redox homeostasis imbalance in blood granulocytes, lymphocytes and erythrocytes, which might be of diagnostic significance.

Effects of speed-power load adaptation on heart rate variability during visuomotor task performance

L. Vovkanych — 2025-10-26

Adaptation to physical exercise is a multilevel process that modulates autonomic nervous system (ANS) function, thereby influencing cardiovascular regulation and stress responsiveness. The role of ANS adaptation to physical stressors, especially speed-strength loads, in shaping autonomic responses to visuomotor tasks, remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate HRV dynamics in individuals with different levels of adaptation to speed-strength loads under conditions of various visuomotor tasks. The sample comprised 22 trained karate athletes and 26 untrained students, matched for age, body mass, and height. HRV indices (HR, SDNN, RMSSD, pNN ₅₀ , SD ₁ , SD ₂ ) were recorded at rest conditions and during a battery of visuomotor tasks of graded complexity: simple visual-motor reaction, visuomotor anticipation, stimulus discrimination, and a tapping test. At rest, trained athletes demonstrated significantly higher RMSSD, pNN ₅₀ , and SD ₁ values, together with lower HR, indicating enhanced parasympathetic modulation. During task performance, both groups exhibited reductions in heart rate variability (SDNN, SD ₂ ), consistent with sympathetic activation, although the magnitude of these changes was greater in the trained group. The most pronounced alterations were observed during the tapping test, where trained athletes showed marked decreases in RMSSD, SD ₁ , and pNN ₅₀ , alongside a pronounced HR increase, reflecting a rapid shift toward sympathetic dominance. These findings suggest that long-term speed-strength training is associated with elevated parasympathetic tone at rest and a more dynamic autonomic reorganization under acute psychophysiological stress. Such modulation may represent a physiological marker of functional readiness, reflecting the ability of trained individuals to mobilize cardiovascular resources during cognitively demanding or emotiona l ly stressful conditions. This study advances understanding of cross-adaptation mechanisms and highlights the relevance of HRV analysis for assessing adaptive responses in physically trained populations.

Estimation of effectivity of new growth regulators on winter wheat productivity and quality

M. Nazarenko — 2025-11-02

Triazole derivatives are powerful agronomic tools that regulate multiple plant processes. In wheat, they help balance veget a tive and reproductive growth, enhance tolerance to abiotic and biotic stresses, and support stable, high yields with improved grain quality. Their dual functionality as growth regulators and broad-spectrum fungicides enables integrated, resource-efficient pr o grams that couple crop protection with physiological stimulation. In this study, seeds from five winter wheat varieties (1.000 grains per treatment) were primed in aqueous solutions of two triazole-type compounds, CA-64 and CA-79, at 0.01%, 0.02% and 0.04%. Soaking lasted 24 hours under standard protocols for plant growth stimulants; water-soaked seeds served as controls. Triazole - based seed priming is increasingly used to fine-tune early crop physiology, yet concentration-response windows and genotype specificity remain underdefined for winter wheat. Two triazole agents have been evaluated across varieties and me a surement systems and a narrow, repeatable stimulatory window was found at 0.01–0.02% with a consistent toxicity threshold at 0.04%. Within the effective range, CA-79 outperformed CA-64 for photosynthetic status (SPAD and calculated chlorophyll), grain yield, yield components (grain weight per main spike, total grain weight per plant, thousand-grain weight (TGW) and grain quality ) . Responses were robust across years and genotypes, with the largest advantage of CA-79 at 0.02%, particularly in MIP Feeriya and the western ecotypes (MV Nador, MV Menrot), while still conferring clear gains in local varieties (Pozitsia Odeska, Tenor). CA-79 (0.02%) reliably increased protein and wet gluten and shifted the glutenin profile toward higher HMW fractions without inflating LMW glutenins , which was an advantageous pattern for baking strength. CA-64 at 0.02% was a safe, positive alternative, though the magnitude of improvement was generally smaller. At 0.04%, both agents depressed photosynthetic indic a tors, yield, and quality indices; HMW glutenins declined most, underscoring a clear toxicity boundary that should be avoided. Genotype conditioning was evident. Local genotypes showed predictable uplift at 0.02% (CA-79 preferred, CA-64 dependable as fallback). Western ecotypes benefited at 0.01–0.02%, with CA-79 providing a broader margin; doses above 0.02% are not re c ommended. Operationally, CA-79 at 0.02% is the default choice for maximal, balanced improvements in photosynthetic capac i ty, yield, and baking quality. Where risk aversion or seed-lot sensitivity warrants caution, 0.01% offers a gentler yet significant uplift. CA-64 (0.01–0.02%) remains a practical second line when access or regulatory status limits CA-79. 0.04% should be avoided for both compounds. These findings delineate concentration-genotype operating zones for triazole priming in winter wheat and highlight CA-79 as the leading option at 0.02% concentration. Ongoing work will extend the assessment to micron u trient enrichment (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn) to link physiological stimulation with nutritional quality gains.

Treatment of burns with polyethylene glycol-based preparations: Dynamics of regeneration at the biochemical and histological levels of organization in rats

V. V. Zazharskyi — 2025-11-07

In Ukraine, more than 12 thousand children and a large number of adults suffer burn injuries yearly. Almost one in four cases is classified as severe or extremely severe. Currently, the system of medical care for burn survivors is in an extremely critical condition. Ukraine is among the five countries with the highest rate of deaths caused by burns in the world. Before the full-scale war, most burn injuries resulted from domestic incidents: careless handling of kitchen appliances, electrical appliances or pyrotechnic products. In adults, in 80% of casualties, the cause was fire, and among children (70%) – boiling water. After 2022, the situation has changed dramatically. In 2023 alone, more than 35% of the victims sustained burns during military attacks. Mine-explosive injuries are considered particularly severe and are often accompanied by extensive burns of various parts of the body. Such injuries require immediate surgery, professional assistance and a long-term rehabilitation process. In addition, due to regular shelling of critical infrastructure facilities and interruptions in electricity and gas supply, the number of household burns has increased dramatically. The most common causes are explosions of gas cylinders, ignition of generators, fires in homes, and boiling water burns. This article presents the findings of an experimental study of the effectiveness of treatment of burn injuries using anti-burn agents. In laboratory rats, thermal skin injuries with an area of up to 10% of the total body surface were induced, which corresponded to II – III degree burns. During the experiment, the therapeutic effect of the preparation under study, which was developed based on polyethylene glycol, was compared with the officially registered me d ical product – Pantestin ointment. Particular attention was paid to the analysis of pathophysiological and pathomorphological changes accompanying the course of burn injury. The most pronounced therapeutic effect was recorded with the use of the experimental ointment based on polyethylene glycol. On the fifth day of the experiment, the survival rate of animals in the group receiving this product was 100 %, while for the group treated with Pantestin, the rate was 60%, and among untreated control animals, the mortality rate reached 40%.

Pathomorphological aspects of cryptococcosis in domestic cats

O. Shchebentovska — 2025-11-09

Cryptococcosis is one of the most common mycotic infections in cats, which may affect the skin, mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, lungs, and central nervous system. Despite its high prevalence among cats in North America, Australia, and sporadic occurrence in Europe, there is no available information in Ukraine presenting case analyses of cryptococcosis in various animal species, likely due to the absence of timely diagnostic procedures for this disease. The etiological agents are Cryptococcus neoformans or C . gattii – encapsulated yeast-like fungi capable of surviving for prolonged periods in the environment, particularly in soil and avian excrement (especially th at of pigeons). Infection typically occurs through the aerogenic route. The nasal cavity is the most common site of the primary infection, with possible hematogenous dissemination to the skin, eyes, and central nervous system. This article describes two cases of cryptococcosis in non-pedigree domestic cats that were treated at a veterinary clinic in Lviv (Ukraine) during 2024. According to the anamnesis, both cats were males, aged 5 and 7 years, kept indoors with free outdoor access. Rapid tests for FIV and FeLV were negative. Clinical examination of one cat revealed a solitary, firm, alopecic, left-sided cutaneous nodular lesion near the nasal wing, while the second cat presented with inspiratory dyspnea and mucopurulent nasal discharge. Cytological and histopathological examinations were performed for diagnostic verification. Fine-needle aspiration biopsies were collected from the affected skin area near the nasal wing and from the nasal mucosa, followed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. To improve yeast visualization, the PAS reaction, Heidenhain’s Azan trichrome stain, and Grocott’s methenamine silver stain were performed. Cytological smears stained with Romanowsky-Giemsa revealed numerous round cells forming clusters located among epithelial and leukocytic cells. Cryptococcus spp. cells possessed a well-defined capsule. In the PAS (McManus) reaction, the yeast cells stained bright red and were surrounded by a thick mucoid capsule. Application of Grocott’s staining method clearly identified budding yeast cells, which appeared black in color. Thus, classical morphological features of cryptococcosis in domestic cats were identified through the use of cytological and histological diagnostic methods, once again emphasizing the importance of comprehensive morpholo g ical diagnostics for this infection.

Influence of microorganisms of fleece on the structure, physical properties, amino acid and mineral composition of sheep wool

V. M. Tkachuk — 2025-11-18

Wool is an irreplaceable raw material for the textile industry. However, a significant amount of woolen raw material is of low quality. In particular, microbiological destruction of fibers is the most widespread type of damage to wool. In view of this, the aim of our work was to clarify the role of the microflora of sheep fleece in the processes of degradation of the fiber structure and to establish the degree of their chemical and physical changes. The study focused on the wool of ewes from the Askanian fine-wool breed. Microbial analysis was performed by culturing samples on solid nutrient media. The structure was studied using transmission electron microscopy. The keratoses content was determined through the oxidation of wool with superacids. The amino acid composition was analyzed via ion chromatography using an AAA-400 amino acid analyzer. The mineral compos i tion was assessed with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer, model S-115 PC. Fineness was measured using a micrometer, and the tensile strength of the wool was evaluated using a DSh-3M apparatus. It is shown that as a result of the vital activity of the fleece microflora, damage t o the structure of wool fibers occurs, which is accompanied by changes in the surface of the cuticular layer, which is indicated by a probable increase in beta-kerat oses . In such wool, the total amount of amino acids decreases (by 25.6 g/kg, or 2.7%) due decreases in arginine, valine, histidine, lysine and cystine. The reduction of histidine and lysine may be related to the highest content of these amino acids in the cuticular layer, which undergoes significant changes. Wool damaged by microflora is characterized by a reduced level of such mineral elements as c opper and s ulfur. A decrease in the latter with a d e crease in cystine may indicate the destruction of disulfide bonds in the fiber by proteolytic enzymes of microorganisms. This ultimately leads to the deterioration of the physical properties of such wool, in particular, a decrease in strength by 20.5% (8.3 versus 6.6 cN/tex) and fineness by 7.9% (23.9 versus 22.0 μm). These data provide the opportunity to improve the quality of wool raw materials, but do not reveal the enzymatic mechanisms of the effect of microorganisms on wool fiber, which requires further research.

Evaluation and selection of highly antagonistic Bacillus strains for the development of probiotic formulations

G. Buchkovska — 2025-11-08

The relevance of this article is driven by the global challenge of identifying and developing alternative biolog i cal preparations to antibiotics – formulations that are affordable, effective, and natural – for maintaining a stable epizootic situation in poultry farming and reducing epidemic risks to humans within the framework of the “One Health” strategy. Accordingly, the materials presented in this study aim to identify, through in vitro screening, B a cillus strains isolated from quails that exhibit ed very high levels of antagonistic activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive indicator test cultures: Ps eudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442, E scherichia coli ATCC 25922, S almonella typhimurium ATCC 29630, and S taphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538. To address this objective, two complementary research methods were employed: the indirect perpendicular streak method and the quantitative delayed antagonism method, applied to experimental strains of B acillus subtilis , B . licheniformis , and B. amylol i quefaciens against the test cultures. Based on the results, 9 strains (7.3% of the 123 Bacillus isolates studied) de m onstrated very high antagonistic activity simultaneously against all indicator test cultures. These included 4 strains (3.3%) of B. subtilis , 4 strains (3.3%) of B. licheniformis , and 1 strain (0.8%) of B. amyloliquefaciens . These 9 Bacillus strains were recognized as promising and selected for further research aimed at developing a synbiotic formulation for quails. The findings of this study have practical value, as the development and application of Baci l lus -based synbiotics – administered as feed additives or via environmental spraying – represent a promising strategy for maintaining a stable epizootic status in poultry farms, improving the sanitary conditions of poultry housing, enhancing intestinal barrier function and immune responsiveness in birds, and enabling a complete transition away from antibiotic use in poultry production.

Association of PIT1 gene polymorphism with milk productivity and body conformation traits in dairy cattle

P. А. Vashchenko — 2025-11-10

Marker-assisted selection (MAS) is an effective approach to accelerating genetic progress in livestock by identifying p o lymorphisms associated with economically important traits. The pituitary-specific transcription factor gene PIT1 plays a regulatory role in the synthesis of growth hormone and prolactin, thus potentially influencing milk yield and body conform a tion in dairy cattle. This study aimed to investigate the distribution of PIT1 genotypes and their associations with productive and morphometric traits in Ukrainian Red-and-White dairy cows – a local breed with limited genetic characterization. Gen o typing was performed using PCR-RFLP with restriction enzyme HinfI on DNA samples obtained from 51 cows. Three genotypes (AA, AB, BB) were identified with frequencies of 0.059, 0.549, and 0.392, respectively. The population was in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, and the Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) value (0.34) confirmed an adequate level of variability for association analysis. The frequency of allele B was twice that of allele A, suggesting moderate genetic conso l idation of the herd. Cows with the PIT1 BB genotype showed a significantly higher milk yield per lactation ( higher by 14.8%) and a 9.8% higher 305 day yield compared with the AB group. In contrast, genotype AB was associated with greater chest width (by 3.4%), as well as higher pelvic–thoracic and thoracic indexes, indicating a more robust body type. No signi f icant differences were found among genotypes for milk fat content, udder morphology, milking speed, live weight, or service period duration.The obtained results demonstrate that PIT1 polymorphism affects milk yield and certain conformation i n dexes in Ukrainian Red-and-White cattle, primarily through mechanisms related to endocrine regulation rather than skeletal development. The presence of both alleles at moderate frequencies highlights the genetic diversity of this local breed and supports its potential use in further genomic selection programs aimed at improving milk productivity while maintaining adaptive traits.

Inhibitory properties of disinfectants on the sporogony of Eimeria tenella (Protista, Eimeriidae)

V. Yevstafieva — 2025-11-09

The protozoa of kingdom P rotista are widespread pat h ogens of gastrointestinal protozoal diseases in chickens and cause si g nificant economic losses to farms. Prevention includes a set of measures to treat poultry with effective drugs, and disinfect the environmental objects using modern, safe and beneficial means. For this purpose, it is recommended to use disinfectants that have been tested for their disinfestation effect. The aim of the research was to investigate the disinfestation effect of chemicals on the process of sporulation of Eimeria tenella oocysts isolated from chickens in laboratory conditions. It was found that the disi n fectants "Virosan" (active substances – alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride and glutaraldehyde) and "Yoderin" (contains iodophores) had disinvasive properties, but their indicators of inhibitory action against sporogony of E. tenella oocysts were not the same. The most effective was the agent alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride and glutaraldehyde mixture, with a 100% inhibitory effect when used at a 0.5% concentration and exposure of 150 minutes. At lower exposures and concentrations, its indicators of inhibitory action ranged within the following limits: at 0.1% concentration to 57.0%, at 0.25% concentration to 84.5%. The inhibitory effect of the iodophor-based disinfectant was lower and varied depending on the exposure (from 30 to 150 min) within the following limits: at 0.5% concentration to 35.7%, at 1.0% concentration to 68.2%, at 2.0% concentration to 93.1%. In addition to stopping the development of Eimeria oocysts, the disinfectants induced changes in their morphological and metric indicators. Metric indicators of oocysts under the action of disinfectants were characterized by lower values of their width (by 4.8–8.7%), and under the action of the iodophor-based agent , by a decrease in the ratio of length / width of oocysts (by 11.0%). The obtained results of the inhibitory action of the disinfectants present prove the possibility of using these agents to combat and prevent eimeriasis in chicken s .

Immune-biomarker signature predicts early molecular response in Iraqi chronic myeloid leukemia patients receiving front-line tyrosine-kinase inhibitors

Z. A. Shabeeb — 2025-12-02

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is characterized by ABL1::BCR-driven leukemogenesis. Although tyrosine-kinase inhib i tors (TKIs) have transformed prognosis, predicting early molecular response (EMR) and treatment-free remission (TFR) remains clinically challenging. Immune mediators such as interleukin-2 (IL)-2, IL-7, and perforin may serve as biomarkers reflecting host - leukemia interactions. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic potential of IL-2, IL-7, and perforin as predictive biomarker s in Iraqi patients with CML. A total of 215 participants were enrolled, including healthy controls (n = 55), newly diagnosed CML patients (n = 20), treatment-free remission patients (TFR) (n = 20), and patients receiving imatinib (n = 30), nilotinib (n = 30), or bosutinib (n = 30). Serum IL-2, IL-7, and perforin levels were quantified by ELISA, and molecular responses were monitored using qRT-PCR standardized to the International Scale. ROC analysis determined optimal biomarker cut-offs and predictive performance for EMR and TFR. The results indicated that IL-2 and IL-7 were significantly elevated in newly diagnosed CML patients (312.4 ± 133.2 and 158.9 ± 108.4 pg/mL) compared to controls (104.6 ± 50.7 and 53.8 ± 8.1 pg/mL, P < 0.0001). Perforin was markedly reduced (1.6 ± 0.9 and 8.7 ± 5.2 ng/mL). ROC analysis revealed IL-2 (AUC = 0.980), IL-7 (AUC = 1.000), and perforin (inverse AUC < 0.00 1 ) as highly discriminative for diagnosis, while perforin (AUC = 0.999, cut-off 3.76 ng/mL) emerged as the strongest predictor of TFR. An immune - biomarker panel integrating high IL-2/IL-7 and depleted perforin at diagnosis effectively predicts EMR and sustained TFR. Incorporating immune profiling into CML ma n agement may refine early risk stratification and enable personalized TKI selection.

Tumorigenicity assay of adrenal medulla derived cell culture

G. А. Bozhok — 2025-11-10

Neurodegenerative disorders involve a continual and permanent deterioration of specific neuronal populations, leading to severe and debilitating neurological impairments. Despite the development of various therapeutic strategies, current treatments largely provide only symptomatic relief and are unable to halt or reverse disease progression. In this context, cell-based ther a pies using stem or progenitor cells offer a promising alternative. Neural crest-derived cells (NCDCs) represent a multipotent cell population that originates during embryogenesis and can give rise to diverse cell types. Importantly, these cells or their derivatives persist in certain adult tissues such as skin, dental pulp, and the adrenal medulla, making them accessible for bi o medical applications. Their high plasticity and availability from multiple sources make NCDCs a valuable candidate for reg e nerative medicine, including treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. However, one of the key safety requirements for cell u lar therapeutics is the evaluation of tumorigenic potential. In this study, we assessed the tumorigenicity of a cell culture derived from the adrenal medulla of neonatal pigs after subcutaneous transplantation into Balb/c mice. Immunodeficiency was induced by intraperitoneal administration of cyclosporine A. The Neuro2a neuroblastoma cell line was used as a tumorigenic positive control. Tumors developed in the groups that received Neuro2a cells (in 100% of the animals under immunosuppression and in 40% of the animals without it). No neoplasms were detected in the groups that received AGCC. Histological analysis co n firmed the presence of malignant tumors only in the groups injected with Neuro2a cells. The obtained results indicate the a b sence of tumorigenic potential in AGCC and justify the feasibility of their further preclinical studies.

Psychosomatic disorders in animals: Interplay of affect, cognition, and reflex regulation

V. Koziy — 2025-11-10

Psychosomatic disorders represent a complex category of conditions characterized by the interaction between psych o logical processes and somatic functions in animals. Unlike traditional disease models that separate mental and physical health, the psychosomatic approach involves the recognition of dynamic regulations across cognitive, emotional, autonomic, and physiological systems. This review summarizes contemporary knowledge on the definition, classification, etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of psychosomatic disorders in animals in veterinary contexts. Emphasis is placed on how cognitive processes (such as learning, expectations, and perceptions), affective states (including chronic fear, frustration, or social deprivation), and reflexive mechanisms (e.g., autonomic reactivity and visceral responses) interact to produce and sustain pathological outcomes. Biological risk factors, such as neuroendocrine dysregulation, immune dysfunction, and neural interruption, are examined alongside environmental, social, and developmental contributors. The review also explores species-specific diagnostic challenges and current assessment tools, including behavioral scoring systems, salivary cortisol level, thermography, and heart rate variability. Therapeutic approaches are discussed in terms of providing environmental enrichment, behavioral modification, pharmacological treatment, and integrative clinical models grounded in behavior and welfare science. Interdisciplinary approaches including affective neuroscience, psychoneuroimmunology, and ethology are proposed as essential for advancing both the scientific understanding, prevention and clinical management of these disorders. This work highlights the importance of understanding psychosomatic disorders not merely as isolated clinical conditions, but as complex physiological phenomena shaped by the animal’s emotional, cognitive, and environmental experiences.

Environmental impact on Ononis natrix: Phytochemical profiling, heavy metal bioaccumulation, and multifunctional bioactivities

A. Ghellab — 2025-12-09

Ononis natrix L., a Mediterranean medicinal species traditionally used for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory prope r ties, has recently attracted global scientific interest for its rich profile of bioactive metabolites with potential pharma cological and ecological significance. This study aimed to evaluate the comparative impact of environmental contamin a tion on phytochemical composition, biological activities and heavy metal bioaccumulation in Ononis natrix L. Samples were collected from a polluted site and a non-polluted site in Berezguel (Tebessa, Algeria). The aerial parts were analyzed for heavy metal content: lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu). Methanolic extracts were prepared from the same plant parts and were analyzed for total phenolic (TPC), flavonoid (TFC), and condensed tannin (TTC) contents. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), phenanthroline, and reducing power. In addition, enzyme inhibitory potential was examined against α-amylase, acetylcholinesterase, and butyrylcholinesterase, while antimicrobial activity was also assessed. Plants from the polluted site bioaccumulated higher levels of Pb, Cd, Zn and Cu. Phytochemical content was also higher in these samples with significantly elevated TPC and TFC. Plants collected from the polluted site exhibited superior antioxidant activity across all assays, with lower IC50 values for ABTS (15.49 ± 1.89 μg/mL) and DPPH (26. 1 ± 0.9 μg/mL) compared to those from the non-polluted site (23. 8 ± 1. 9 and 33. 7 ± 1.9 μg/mL, respectively). Extracts from the polluted site also showed stronger enzyme inhibition, particularly against α-amylase (IC ₅₀ : 268.1 ± 9.6 μg/mL) compared to acarbose (IC ₅₀ : 3177.3 ± 11. 7 μg/mL). Both extracts exhibited high antibacterial activity with the polluted-site extract producing larger inhibition zones for Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These findings suggest that pollution induced enviro n mental stress enhanced bioactive compound production and therapeutic potential in O. natrix , though metal accumulation in the raw plant raises safety concerns, underscoring the need for standardization and sustainable sourcing strategies.

Processing apple pomace powder to reduce environmental pollution

M. M. Zheplinska — 2025-11-08

Apple pomace is a polluting waste and is unsuitable for feeding livestock. Various alternative solutions for the use of apple pomace when implemented in practical conditions can contribute to the development of a technological chain of waste-free apple processing. The by-product – apple pomace – is rich in valuable fiber in the form of pectin substances. Therefore, their processing is of great importance for environmental protection. The paper presents a comparative co n tent of pectin in various plant raw materials and the chemical composition of pectin and the elemental composition of pectin powder in apple pomace, which allows these wastes to be used as an ingredient in the production of food products, in particular in the meat and soft drink industries to reduce the amount of sugar and increase the biological value of the product. The article shows the possibility of using pectin for the production of edible film to protect food products, ant i microbial biofilms, nanoparticles, etc., which extends the shelf life of food. Advances in the use of different extraction sources and knowledge of structural modification have significantly expanded the properties, yield and applications of pectic substances found in apple pomace. Modified pectin has shown better functional properties than native pectin. It has been established that pectin can be used in biomedicine as a targeted application in the delivery of bioactive drugs and to stop the spread of cancer cells in the lungs. During the review of literature sources, the possibility of using apple pomace in the production of bioethanol was considered, which will positively affect environmental processes in the future. The obtained data contain practical value regarding the possibility of waste-free processing of apple pomace in various sectors of the national economy, which is currently a relevant issue.

Complex diagnostics of fatty liver dystrophy in dogs

L. Slivinska — 2025-10-11

Fatty hepatosis in dogs is a common pathological process accompanied by accumulation of lipids in hepatocytes, impairment of the liver’s metabolic functions, and the development of inflammatory and dystrophic changes, which significantly affect the clinical course of the disease and prognosis. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the activity of cytolytic (alanine- and as pa tate aminotransferase, glutamate dehydrogenase) and cholestatic (gamma-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase) enzymes, and also to determine the concentration of bile acids in blood serum of dogs of different breeds suffering fatty liver dystrophy, namely German shepherd, spaniel, Yorkshire terrier, and mixed-breed dogs. The animals underwent clinical examination, ultr a sound diagnostics, liver biopsy, histological and electronic-microscope analysis of the bioptates, and their blood was gathered for laboratory analyses. We examined 140 dogs aged two to six years, weighing 2.5 to 46 kg. In the dogs with fatty liver dystrophy, the informative diagnostic criteria were concentration of bile acids in blood serum prior to feeding and two hours later, and also the activity of hepatoindicatory cytolytic (glutamate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase) and cholestatic (gamma-glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase) enzymes. Changes in the mentioned biochemical parameters were present in all the clinically ill dogs. We determined a high positive correlation between the concentration of bile acids prior to and two hours after feeding the dogs: German shepherds, spaniels, Yorkshire terriers, and mixed-breed dogs. In the clinically healthy German shepherds, the reference values of concentration of bile acids in blood serum before and two hours after meal measured 2.4–8.4 and 12.9–16.7 µmol/L, respectively. The concentration of bile acids in blood serum of the fatty-liver-dystrophy patients before and two hours after feeding was elevated, in particular 15.9% in the German shepherds, 33.3% in the spaniels. We also determined a strong positive correlation between the concentration of bile acids in blood serum of the ill German shepherds prior to and two hours after meal (r = 0.963). According to the ultrasound study, 100% of the dogs were observed to have uniform diffusive increase in echogenicity of the liver parenchyma. The liver contours were rounded, the vascular pattern was impov e rished, the capsule had a dense echostructure, and the structure of parenchyma was coarse-granular. As revealed by the histolog i cal and histochemical study, the liver of the German shepherds had large foci of fatty dystrophy of hepatocytes, and also fine focal spots of dystrophy on the bile ducts’ epithelium. In the liver bioptates from the German shepherds, we observed pronounced ultrastructural changes, including some hepatocytes containing average-sized lipid droplets with low electronic density and other hepatocytes having large lipoprotein inclusions. In the hepatocytes’ cytoplasm, we detected an increase in the number of pero x isomes and autophagolysosomes against the background of an expansion of the spaces of Disse. In addition, we found sludges of red blood cell and electronically dense masses of blood plasma in the lumens of blood capillaries and an expa n sion of collagen fibers between hepatocytes we observed.

Hematopoiesis, biochemical and antioxidant parameters of blood of pigs consuming organic compounds of trace elements (Cu, Mn, Zn, Fe) in mineral feed supplement

V. Vlizlo — 2025-10-14

Development of mineral supplements containing necessary trace elements is essential for swine farming. Therefore, the o b jective of our study was to analyze the peculiarities of the influence of organic compounds of trace elements (copper, manganese, zinc, iron) on hematopoiesis, biochemical and antioxidant blood parameters of pigs. The experiment was conducted on three groups of pigs – one control and two experimental. The control group received a feed supplement with inorganic sulfate forms of trace elements (Cu, Mn, Zn, Fe). The pigs of the experimental groups – instead of inorganic salts of trace elements – were given a newly developed organic complex of trace elements (Cu, Mn, Zn, Fe) bonded using N-PEGylated glutamic acid as their feed supplement. The content of trace elements in the feed supplement of the experimental groups was lower than that in the control group. In particular, the concentrations of Cu, Mn, Zn, and Fe in Group 1 were lower by 51%, 42%, 20%, and 36%, respectiv e ly, whereas Cu, Mn, Zn, and Fe in Group 2 were lower by 48%, 39%, 17%, and 33%, respectively. Despite the low – compared with control group – contents of copper, manganese, zinc, and iron in organic form, the experimental animals were found to have improved hematopoiesis, metabolism, and antioxidant protection. The formation of erythrocytes and hemoglobin in the exper i mental pigs was stable, or even higher. The contents of total protein and its fraction, glucose, and total cholesterol in blood serum of the animals were at the physiological level throughout the intake of organic trace elements. The activities of the enzymes a s partate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase in blood serum were within the normal range and remained largely consistent across the three groups. The activity of the antioxidant-defense enzymes (superoxide di s mutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase) in blood of the pigs that received the trace elements in organic form were stable throughout the experiment and were consistent with the formation of lipid peroxidation products (malondialdehyde). In the f u ture, it would be practical to determine the effects of the complex of trace elements with N-PEGylated glutamic acid on the state of metabolism in the muscular tissue, productive parameters, and release of the elements with feces.

Innovative feed additives in the optimization of laying hen diets

А. Hunchak — 2025-11-12

The relevance of this research is determined by the need to improve the efficiency of protein utilization and reduce the cost of poultry products through the use of highly bioavailable protein and amino acid components, which corresponds to modern trends in sustainable and energy-efficient feeding. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of complex enrichment of compound feeds with high-protein feed yeast (46%) and the “Progloat” additive (19%), which contains a balanced complex of amino acids, vitamins, and microelements, in ensuring optimal protein nutrition and maintaining physiological homeostasis in laying hens. This article presents a fragment of comprehensive research on the intensity of metabolic processes in laying hens under conditions of quantitative and qualitative modification of dietary protein, including the use of bioelements in the form of nanoaquacitrates and enzyme suppl e ments to maximize digestible protein absorption and minimize feed conversion and nutrient emissions. The data presented focus on the effects of dietary correction on selected biochemical indicators in the blood and liver. It was found that the optimal feeding regime for Lohmann Brown laying hens included 19% of the innovative protein concentrate “Progloat” and 3.5% of high-protein (46%) feed yeast, with a simultaneous replacement of inorganic mineral premixes by citrate forms of trace elements (Zn, Mn, Fe, Cu, Co, Se, I) at 25% of their control diet content. Under such dietary correction, no negative dynamics of the serum biochemical profile were o b served. The total protein content in the blood of all groups remained stable and depended mainly on protein quality rather than its quantity. The use of innovative protein supplements enhanced protein utilization and increased total hepatic protein and proteolytic enzyme activity. Additionally, the calcium concentration in the blood correlated with increased eggshell strength, which rose by 4.1% compared to the control. The practical value of this study lies in the scientific justification for introducing innovative protein additives into production diets to increase the biological value of feeds, improve product quality, and reduce resource consumption.

Microstructure of goat milk

N. M. Zazharska — 2025-11-14

As a raw material for dairy products, goat milk must be safe for human consumption. Bacterial contamination and somatic cell count are the main indicators of milk safety. Somatic cell count is used as an indicator of milk quality and udder health in dairy goats, although its interpretation is complicated by non-infectious factors, including seasonality, parity, farm-specific cond i tions and physiological factors. Compared with the threshold level for cows, the somatic cell count in goat milk is higher. The aim of the study was to identify morphological features of goat milk components (including somatic cells) using scanning electron microscopy. Sample analysis was performed on a scanning electron microscope equipped with a low vacuum chamber and an X-ray microanalysis system in the electron microscopy laboratory of Sumy National Agrarian University. Somatic cells, fat globules, protein micelles, fat-protein agglomerates, calcium salts, and foreign impurities were detected in goat milk samples during observation using a scanning electron microscope. A detailed analysis revealed that somatic cells have a dense consistency and clearly defined boundaries. The characteristics of typical morphological structures of goat milk are summarized, the morph o logical features of somatic cells of goat milk in scanning electron microscopy images are described. Milk secretion in goats o c curs according to the apocrine type, as a result of which milk contains mainly fragments of the apical cytoplasm of secretory cells, rather than whole epithelial cells.

Assessment of strain-dependent variation of phytostimulatory activity in Streptomyces ambofaciens-based bioformulations for agricultural applications

O. V. Andriushchenko — 2025-11-14

The biotechnological potential of Streptomyces ambofaciens is highly strain-dependent, yet practical evaluations of how di f ferent strains influence the effects of microbial complexes used for agricultural bioformulations remain unstudied. In this invest i gation, we evaluated two microbial complexes differing only in their Streptomyces component: complex A1 containing S. ambofaciens ONU 1016, and complex A3 containing S. ambofaciens ONU 561, both combined with Bacillus subtilis ONU 1125 and Trichoderma harzianum LBX-181. Barley grains were inoculated with microbial suspensions across a concentration range to reveal how Streptomyces strain selection affects complex-mediated plant growth responses. Our findings showed that S. ambofaciens strains acted differently when applied alone versus in microbial complexes, reshaping the plant growth responses. S. ambofaciens ONU 1016 and ONU 561, as single inoculants, increased the fresh weight of the barley seedlings by 9.0 – 51.4% when applied as 75% suspensions. This gain in weight was the result of ability of the studied strains to increase leaf area and height of the barley seedlings at this concentration. PCA showed that the effects of S. ambofaciens ONU 1016 and ONU 561 on plant growth, similar at 10 – 50% concentrations (distance in PCA space 0.1 – 0.5), began to diverge when 75% suspensions were applied: ONU 1016 acted evenly across height, leaf area, and roots, whereas ONU 561 shifted away from root promotion, with the distances between them in PCA space 1.7 at 75% and 2.1 at 100%. When included into microbial complexes with B. subtilis ONU 1125 and T. harzianum LBX-181, differences in phytostimulatory effects became more pronounced. The A1 complex consistently promoted both aboveground biomass and roots at all concentrations, although increases in fresh weights were signi f icant only at 10% and 25%. The A3 complex increased fresh weight only at 10% due to improved leaf growth, but at higher concentrations it only promoted root development while suppressing aboveground biomass growth. PCA confirmed that the A1 and A3 were far apart, with distances of 4.0 – 5.4 across concentrations, reflecting their fundamentally different orientations. Thus, the inclusion of either strain determines whether multi-microbial mixtures support balanced plant growth (A1) or only root-focused responses (A3). The selection of an appropriate S. ambofaciens strain is crucial for enhancing the performance of micr o bial fertilizers.

Phytoindication assessment of spatial patterns of ecological regimes in urban parks as a basis for ecologically relevant management

V. Zelenova — 2025-11-15

Urban parks are increasingly recognised as key components of green infrastructure that provide multiple ecosystem services. However, their management is still rarely guided by ecologically grounded indicators. The present study evaluated the potential of phytoindication approaches to diagnose ecological regimes within a single urban park, with the aim of supporting spatially differentiated management decisions. The research was conducted in Ivan Starov Square (Dnipro, Ukraine; 11.2 ha), where the herb layer was surveyed in 150 plots arranged on a quasi-regular grid. Phytoindication scales have been demonstrated to be a highly informative tool for quantifying major ecological regimes within the park, including soil moisture and its variability, aer a tion, acidity, nutrient and salinity levels, thermal and cryoclimatic conditions, continentality, light regimes, and degree of synant h ropization. The indicator-based assessment demonstrated a clear separation between relatively natural, moderately used fra g ments and intensively managed and heavily disturbed lawns, playgrounds, and informal paths. Plots located in peripheral and less accessible zones exhibited higher environmental heterogeneity, lower hemeroby, more balanced life-form spectra, and greater contributions of competitive and stress-tolerant strategies. In contrast, central and highly visited zones demonstrated increased nutrient and disturbance scores, dominance of therophytes and ruderal strategies, and reduced species diversity. These patterns underscore the notion that indicator values derived from the herb layer integrate cumulative effects of management and enviro n mental stress, as opposed to merely reflecting short-term fluctuations. For the majority of diversity metrics, phytoindication v a riables and disturbance indices, statistically significant positive spatial autocorrelation and a considerable proportion of spatially structured variance were detected. Variogram analysis revealed clear ranges of spatial dependence on the order of dozens to hundreds of metres, corresponding to the functional zones of the park. Furthermore, the spatial dependence level (SDL) reached up to several dozen per cent for many indicators. The results obtained demonstrate that the distribution of phytoindication values is far from random; rather, it reflects coherent spatial gradients of environmental conditions and management regimes. These gradients can be visualised by kriging maps and linked directly to concrete landscape elements. A significant practical outcome of this study is that the entire analytical framework is based on standard vegetation surveys and existing indicator scales, obviating the necessity for expensive equipment, continuous logging, or complex laboratory measurements. Phytoindication is therefore a low-cost, methodologically simple and reproducible tool for diagnosing ecological regimes in urban parks. Concurrently, the documented spatial dependence of these scales signifies that they can be interpreted not only as local descriptors of plant co m munities but also as spatially explicit ecological benchmarks that integrate long-term effects of management and environmental filtering. The results of the study provide quantitative evidence that phytoindication scales are suitable as operational guides for ecologically oriented management of urban parks. These measures enable managers to identify zones exhibiting high naturalness and conservation value, which is imperative. Furthermore, the detection of hotspots of degradation, ruderalisation and excessive disturbance is crucial. The optimisation of mowing and recreation regimes is also essential, as is the planning of targeted nature-based solutions that enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services. The approach proposed here is readily transferable to other urban parks and green spaces, as indicator systems such as those developed by Didukh and Ellenberg are widely available for different regions. The integration of such indicator-based, spatially explicit diagnostics into routine park management would facilitate the transition from predominantly aesthetic and technical criteria towards adaptive, ecologically informed governance of urban green spaces.

The interaction between cytokine profiles and Epstein-Barr virus-induced immune response

S. K. Al-Qaisi — 2025-11-26

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is capable of triggering the complex of host immune response where the proportion of the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines is a key factor in the persistence of the virus, immune prote c tion, and the progression of the disease. These are the interactions among cytokines which are essential in the path o genesis of EBV and disorders that are affiliated with it. The paper will help to clarify the relations between the cyt o kine profiles and the immune reaction caused by Epstein-Bar r virus infection and reveal the main cytokines that could determine the persistence of the virus, regulate the immune response, and determine the progression of the disease. The current case-control study was a study designed in Nasiriyah, Iraq, between February and September 2025 and consisting of 90 participants with known infection by the Epstein-Bar r virus and 50 healthy participants of the same age group (between 18 to 50 years old). The exclusion criteria included pregnancy, chronic disease, autoimmune disease, malignancies and immunosuppressive drugs. Blood samples were collected by vein, serum was isol ated and kept at – 20 ^o C. Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-a, IL-1b, IL-10, TGF-b), and anti-EBV antibodies (VCA IgM and IgG) were quantified by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Result: The researchers did not observe any significant differences between the groups regarding gender or age. The patients were much fatter than the controls (26.8 ± 4.2 vs. 24.5 ± 3.7 kg/m ² , P = 0.003) and it is possible that being fat is a risk factor of EBV. There was a significant rise in inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-a 1, and IL-10) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-b) in the patients, which shows that their immune systems were changing. Considerably more anti-EBV VCA IgM and IgG was found, and these were closely linked to molecules that cause inflammation. Conclusions: EBV infection elicits a robust immune reaction; it is manifested in proinflammatory (IL-6, TNF-3) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10, TGF-3) cytokines. This balance is an attempt by the host to balance viral proliferation and m i nimal tissue damage to facilitate successful antiviral protection.

First report on the antifungal potential of Pistacia atlantica essential oil against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. albedinis

I. Sifi — 2025-12-02

The aim of this study was to investigate the antifungal activity of Pistacia atlantica essential oil against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. albedinis (Foa) using the direct contact method. The essential oils were extracted from the gall part of the plant in two regions (Ain- O ussera and Laghouat). The extracts were analysed using GC and GC-MS techniques to dete r mine their chemical composition. The results showed that all tested essential oils possess inhibitory effects on Foa, with varying degrees of effectiveness based on concentration. The percentages of inhibition of essential oils from two regi ons reveals that the essential oil from Ain- O ussera is more active than that from Laghouat, particularly at the concentration range of 0.3 to 4 .0 µL/mL. Moreover, no significant differences were noted in mycelial growth inhibition between the two regions within the concentrations range of 10 to 20 µL/m L . These results indicate that the P . atlantica essential oil may be a promising alternative or supplementary treatment in phytopathogen management strategies.

Adiponectin, leptin, and novel adipokines (resistin, visfatin, omentin) as biomarkers of metabolic and immune dysregulation in type 1 diabetes

A. R. M. Chyad — 2025-11-27

A diponectin, leptin, and newly introduced adipokine s like resistin, visfatin, and omentin are useful in regulating metabolism and immunity and hence may serve as biomarkers to identify metabolic and inflammatory dysregulation in type 1 diabetes. The objective of this study was to measure serum adiponectin, leptin, and the novel adipokine (resistin, visfatin, and omentin) concentrations in patients with type 1 diabetes and the possibility of measuring them as biomarkers of metabolic and immune dysregulation. This was a case-control study (April – September 2025) comprising 150 diabetic and 50 age and sex matched healthy controls in Nasiriyah, Iraq to assess metabolic and adipokine profiles. Following informed consent, venous fasting blood was collected, processed and stored. Measurement of glucose, HbA1c, C-peptide and autoimmune markers (GAD 65, ICA, IAA) was done. Serum adipokines, adiponectin, leptin, resistin, visfatin, and omentin were measured in duplicate with ELISA to ma x imise accuracy. Demographic compatibility was established by comparative study of 150 type 1 diabetes patients versus 50 healthy controls, there was no significant difference in age or sex. The patients were more hypertrophic in terms of BMI (24.9 ± 3.6 vs. 23.7 ± 3.1 kg/m ² ; P = 0.048) and severely hyperglycemic in terms of HbA1c (8.2 ± 1.5% vs. 5.1 ± 0.6 % ; P = 0.001). The random and O GT glucose levels and C peptide were significantly higher and lower, respectively, which verified the insulin secretion impairment. There was a high level of autoimmunity ( autoantibodies GAD65 68% ICA 54%, IAA 39). There was an increase in leptin, resistin and visfatin (all P < 0.001) and a decrease in omentin. Correlation analysis showed that adiponectin was significantly negatively correlated with leptin, resistin, visfatin, and positively correlated with omentin, which demonstrated that adipokines are intricately related in the metabolic and immune regulation processes. The analysis shows that patients with type 1 diabetes have adipokine imbalance, that is, reduced adiponectin and omentin, elevated leptin, resistin, and visfatin, which appears in chronic hyperglycemia and inflammation. These alterations indicate that they may be used as biomarkers of immune and metabolic disruptions.

Correlational analysis of immunological and physiological parameters in patients with diabetes mellitus in Anbar Province (Iraq)

T. M. Muhammed — 2025-11-28

Diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2 is a chronic condition that occurs when the body cannot use insulin effectively or does not produce enough of it. This leads to high blood sugar levels and can cause serious health complications if not managed prope r ly. The purpose of the presented research was to measure a few hematological and immunological parameters in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). There were 80 blood samples in all, 50 of which came from patients with DM (cases). They were 16 to 50 years old, the remaining 30 samples were healthy individuals who served as controls and visited the Ramadi General Teaching Hospital in Ramadi City between October, 2023, and December, 2024. The study examined the correlation between the variables under investigation, demonstrating the presence of both positive and negative correlations. The results showed a notable change in the concentrations of IL4, IL17, IFNγ, and IL10 using ELISA. A comparison of the two groups (control and patients) revealed significant difference in the levels of IL17, IL10, IFNγ, and IL4. The mean values of IL17, IFNγ, and IL10 were significantly increased , while IL4 decreased significantly in comparison with the control group. Additionally, blood levels of Hb and PLTs revealed a significant difference, the level of Hb decreased significantly, while the PLTs level increased significantly in contrast with the control group. We conclude that the levels of IL-17 and IFN-γ were much higher in DM patients compared to the healthy individuals. Accordingly, a substantial drop in IL-4 and IL-10 was noted in DM patients compared with healthy individuals. Also the study examined the correlation between the variables under investigation, demo n strating the presence of both positive and negative correlations. The results of the correlation analysis showed a significant negative and positive correlation between IL-17 and both IL-10 and IFN-γ, respectively. However, the results did not demo n strate significant correlations between immune and physiological factors. Our results demonstrate that diverse and indepe n dently regulated cytokine pathways define the immunological dysregulation associated with diabetes, indicating that cytokine networks, rather than specific targets, should be the focus of effective treatment approaches.

Association of ghost Na+/K+-ATPase activity and 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate levels with deferoxamine use in β-thalassemia

N. A. Al-Jabouri — 2025-11-08

β - t halassemia is set of genetic illnesses defined by abnormalities in the synthesis of the beta chains of hemoglobin . A broad spectrum of phenotypes is observed, they are presented inside red blood cells . 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate (2,3-bpg) is a key comp o nent that controls the hemoglobin's oxygen binding. The study examined the effect of the drug deferoxamine on the levels of 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate, Na ⁺ /K ⁺ ATPase in patients with thalassemia type beta. The study was a case-control study. A total of 130 individuals were involved: a total of 70 patients with β -thalassemia, 60 healthy controls. The initial group was carefully selected based on the patients' clinical symptoms. The 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate level was determined by using the enzyme -linked imm u ne sorbent assay (ELISA ) , while Na ⁺ /K ⁺ ATPase was measured by ghost . Patients e xhibited elevated 2,3-bisphosphoglyce rate levels in comparison to the control group, accompanied by elevated Na ⁺ /K ⁺ ATPase levels in patients compar ed to the controls. Elevated levels of 2,3- b isphosphoglycerate dehydrogenase in β- thalassemia patients are due to increased hemolysis, as it is formed within the red blood cell as a result of glycolysis. The level of s odium potassium ATPase, present in the red blood cell membrane, also rises during red blood cell breakdown.

Gene expression of Gck in alloxan-induced diabetic male rats: potential therapeutic role of beta-aminobutyric acid

S. S. Mahmood — 2025-12-04

Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of be ta-aminobutyric acid (BABA) on a lloxa n-induced diabetes in male rats. Furthermore, this study examined the crucial role of the G ck gene in diabetes development, elucidating its characteristics and exp ression levels in liver tissue by studying its effect on glucose , ALT, AST, MDA, GlP, GlP-1, and GCK pathways. For modeling diabetes mellitus, t hirty adult male rats were randomly assigned to six groups of five individuals each . The rats were 6–8 weeks old and weighed 140 – 160 g. Positive control was treated with 2 m L normal saline, while the n egative control was treated only with 50 mg/kg alloxan, and the other four groups were treated with 50 mg/kg of alloxan , then 50, 100, 150, 200 mg/kg of BABA respectively. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was utilized to evaluate the serum levels of glucose, ALT, AST, MDA, GlP, GlP-1, and hepatic glycogen GCK, and hepatic Gck mRNA levels had been measured via the reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) technique in thirty adult male albino rats. Hepatic damage was stimulated in six groups for the research using a lloxan. The addition of BABA at four different concentrations lasted for one month. Blood and tissue samples were collected at the end of the experimental period, following overnight fasting. All assays were performed in technical triplicates to ensure data reliability and reproducibility. Control − showed significantly higher levels of glucose, liver enzymes ALT and AST, and the oxidative stress marker (MDA), with a decrease in metabolic activity markers (GlP, GlP-1, GCK) compared with Control+. Treatment with BABA at increasing doses (50, 100, 150, 200 mg/kg) led to a gradual improvement in all studied markers. Glucose, ALT, AST, and MDA levels significantly decreased, while GlP, GlP-1, and GCK significantly increased. The best results were achieved at the 200 mg/kg dose (Group D), where values approached normal levels. This study indicates the effectiveness of BABA in redu c ing liver dam age and oxidative stress and im proving metabolic balance in the alloxan-induced diabetes model.

Histological and physiological assessment of the effect of anti-inflammatory drug ketorolac trometamol on the heart and lungs of mice

A. I. Mohammed Salih — 2025-12-02

This study aim ed to assess the influence of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug k etorolac on cardiotoxicity. Fifty albino mice were randomly divided into three equal groups: G roup I, G roup II, and G roup III (single/daily intraperitoneal injection of 0.132, 0.66, and 1.32 mg/kg, respectively/for 12 days) , and also the control group. After 48 h of treatment, blood samples were collected to evaluate cardiac enzymes, including troponin I, creatine kinase-MB, and myoglobin. The results showed , at the ultrastructural level, that the myocardium of G roup I exhibited characteristic changes, including congested blood vessels, inflammatory cell infiltration between the muscle fibers, and dissociation of muscle cells. In G roup II, karyorhexis atrophied. Group III showed necrosis of cardiomyocytes. We found a positive PAS reaction in the Purkinje fibers and cardiomyocytes and fibrosis in the heart muscle when compared with the control. Ultrastructurally , the lung of G roup I revealed edematous and bronchiolar debris. Group II was observed to have necrosis of bronchioles and desquamation of alveolar cells . Group III showed h emosiderin deposition, and discontinuous and collapsed alveoli. We observed a PAS-p ositive reaction in the alveolar, bronchiolar, an d pulmonary blood vessel walls; and also f ibrosis of necrotic alveoli, bronchiolar , and blood vessel walls. The analysi s of cardiac enzymes revealed a significant increase in troponin I in all experimental groups . O n the other hand, a significant increase in m yoglobin was seen in all experimental groups, whereas creatine kinase significant ly increase d in the groups II and III , P < 0.05 compared with the control group. In conclusion, this experimental study demonstrates for the first time the histopathological changes in the myocardial tissue and the lung, including congested blood vessels, atrophy, karyorhexis, and degeneration of myocardium, as well as inflammatory cell infi l tration . In alveolar fibrosis, bronchial cellular debris wa s present. This reflects the toxicity of k etorolac during this experimental.

Current state of soil microbiota in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine

V. Melnychuk — 2025-11-08

The destruction of the Kakhovka HPP led to large-scale changes in the natural ecosystems of the Zaporizhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine, including changes in the soil microbiome. T he research i n the territory of Zaporizhia Oblast revealed nat u ral, intensive phenomena of soil cover purification from organic matter contamination, including feces, occurring in the dra i nage zone formed as a result of the destruction of the dam. Sanitary state control allows us to assess the safety of soils for the environment and determine the possible impact on humans. Thus, a local contamination was revealed. The sanitary state of the soil was characterized by the presence of sanitary indicator microorganisms ( Escherichia coli , Enterococcus spp., Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., Citrobacter spp. , and Clostridium perfringens ), which indicated fresh or old fecal contamination. The detection of thermophilic bacteria, Bacillus spp., and saprophytic fungi was correlated with the degree of organic matter tran s formation processes and stages of soil self-purification. In the soils in unsatisfactory sanitary condition, the coli titer the perfri n gens titer measured ≤ 0.9 and ≤ 0.009 , respectively . Pathogenic Salmonella spp. were not detected in any of the soil samples, yet Mycobacterium spp. were isolated. In the soils of the drainage zone of most of the studied transects, the presence of E. coli and sulfite-reducing bacteria was established. The results obtained can be used for further monitoring and control of the sanit a ry condition of soils affected by the destruction of the Kakhovka HPP in order to prevent the spread of pathogenic microorga n isms in natural ecosystems.

Microclimatic influence and water state characteristics of introduced tree species in urban park stands

H. V. Strepetova — 2025-12-09

The article presented the results of research on the potential ability of introduced tree species to develop microclimatic conditions of urban green spaces in the Steppe zone (using the example of park plantings in Dnipro city). The goal of the work was to determine the role of introduced tree species in optimizing the air and soil temperature and humidity, taking into account the species-specific features of leaf water state. The research was conducted in Taras Shevchenko Central Culture and Leisure Park and Ivan Starov Square during the growing season, 2023. Temperature and humidity measurements in atmospheric air and soil, and measurements of leaf physiological traits were taken using modern devices and classical tec h niques. The objects of research were 12 introduced tree species aged 40–50 years: Acer negundo L., Acer saccharum Ma r shall, Aesculus hippocastanum L., Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, Celtis occidentalis L., Fraxinus pennsylvanica Ma r shall, Gleditsia triacanthos L., Gymnocladus dioica (L.) K. Koch, Robinia pseudoacacia L., Ulmus pumila L., Quercus rubra L., Styphnolobium japonicum (L.) Schott. The research outputs showed that during daylight hours air temperature decreased by an average of 1–2 °C, and relative humidity increased by 3–5% beneath the tree crowns compared to open sites. The soil temperature within the crown projection area was 2–4 °C lower, while the humidity almost doubled. Indicators of the leaf water state (Relative Water Content and Water Deficit) revealed significant interspecific differences. So, S. japonicum , and A. altissima were characterized by a high relative water content, whereas A. hippocastanum and Q. rubra showed lower values and a greater lack of moisture. The outputs of cluster analysis allowed the groups of tree species to be distinguished based on their sustainability and phytoclimatic effects. This indicates the feasibility of combined use of diffe r ent tree species in formation of urban plantings having significant regulatory functions.

Molecular-genetic analysis of Meloidogyne (Heteroderidae) species from Surxondaryo Region, Uzbekistan based on ITS markers

S. Choriyev — 2025-12-23

This study investigated the molecular-genetic characteristics of Meloidogyne species from Surxondaryo region, Uzbekistan, using ITS (Internal Transcribed Spacer) nucleotide sequences. A total of 765 root samples from peanut, carrot, sugar beet, cucumber, and tomato were collected and analyzed. Nematodes were morphologically identified, and genomic DNA was extracted from mature females. The 5.8S–ITS2 region was amplified using TW81 and AB28 primers, sequenced, and analyzed phylogenetically using Maximum Likelihood methods with IQ-TREE 2 and 1000 bootstrap replicates. Multiple sequence alignments were performed with MAFFT, and genetic diversity indices, inclu d ing haplotype diversity (Hd), nucleotide diversity (π), Tajima’s D, and Kimura 2-parameter (K2P) distances, were calculated in R using ape and pegas packages. Phylogenetic analyses revealed four main clusters corresponding to M. arenaria , M. incognita , M. javanica , and M. konaensis , with high bootstrap support (≥70%), confirming their mon o phyletic nature and clear inter-species differentiation. K2P distance analyses showed very low intra-species divergence (0.0015–0.0095) and high inter-species differentiation (0.040–0.055), indicating strong molecular conservation within species. Haplotype analysis revealed high diversity (Hd = 0.937), while nucleotide diversity was low (π = 0.052), su g gesting recent population expansion, close evolutionary relationships, or selective pressures shaping the genetic stru c ture. Overall, the results demonstrate that the ITS marker is a reliable molecular tool for species identification and pop u lation-genetic studies in Meloidogyne . The inclusion of Uzbek isolates provides molecular confirmation of their ta x onomic status and establishes a foundation for future ecological and genetic research.

Gasdermin-D driven pyroptosis fuels oxidative stress in ulcerative colitis: Biochemical and physiological correlations

T. H. Mgheer — 2025-12-28

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, resulting from intricate interplay among immune dysregulation, epithelial barrier malfunction and oxidative stress. Recent evidence has identified pyroptosis, a lytic and inflammatory type of programmed cell death, which is mediated by g asdermin D (GSDMD), as an important driver of intestinal inflammation. Pyroptosis also results in the release of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-18, that can further activate neutrophils and increase oxidative damage. Nevertheless, there are few integrated clinical research studies on the simultaneous detection of pyroptosis and cyt o kine release and oxidative stress markers in UC. Thus the aim of our research is to determine the serum concentrations of GSDMD, IL-18, myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in UC patients compared with healthy controls and to investigate their relationships as well as explore the diagnostic value of these indices for UC. Methods : A case-control study was performed with 45 patients who were diagnosed with UC and 45 age-matched healthy controls. Serum levels of GSDMD, IL-18, MPO, and MDA were assayed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and C-reactive protein (CRP) was assessed with immunodetection methods. Statistical analysis comprised independent t-tests, correlation, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and logistic regression. Results : The concentration of serum GSDMD, IL-18, MPO, MDA and CRP in UC patients we re all obviously higher than that in controls (all P < 0.05). IL-18 was positively correlated with CRP (r = 0.481, p = 0.001) and MDA (r = 0.389, p = 0.008). The ROC analysis showed excellent diagnostic power for GSDMD (AUC = 0.993), IL-18 (AUC = 0.995), and MDA (AUC = 0.992) in distinguishing UC patients from healthy controls. In regression analysis, GSDMD and IL-18 were independent predictors for UC status. Conclusions : Together, these results favor a pathogenic model of UC where GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis leads to IL-18 release and subsequent neutrophil activation and oxidative lipid damage. GSDMD, IL-18 and MDA show promise as alternative non-invasive diagnostic markers. These findings emphasize the importance of both pyroptosis and oxidative stress next to other biological mechanisms in their translation into clinical aspects of UC.

The effect of dry food on hypertension and kidney function among cats

A. Y. Ismail — 2025-11-08

Hypertension is an important clinical condition in the domestic cat. It is frequently associated with renal and cardiovascular disorders. Although hypertension is usually a secondary consequence of an underlying clinical condition, the influence of dietary composition and, especially, the exclusive consumption of dry foods is controversial and has been understudied. The objective of the study was to assess the impact of the exclusive consumption of dry food on arterial blood pressure and renal function indicators in clinically normal domestic cats. In a comparative study carried out on 41 apparently health y domestic cats aged 1 – 7 years and monitored over 60 days, 19 were fed on dry foods and 22 , the control group, fed on either wet foods or natural foods. The blood pressure of the cats was monitored using non-invasive validated techniques. Blood tests were carried out on the cats to determine serum levels of sodium, urea, and creatinine. For cats fed dry food, a highly significant increase in systolic arterial pressure was found from a baseline of a mean of 119 to 211 mmHg ( P < 0.001). There was no such effect in the controls. There was a marked increase in the levels of serum sodium in the dry food group from 147.6 to 387.5 mEq/L ( P < 0.001). For the controls, the levels of serum sodium were within normal limits throughout the period of the study. Significant changes in the levels of urea from 9.4 to 14.6 mmol/L and creatinine from 138.8 to 168.7 µmol/L were also found in the dry food group. Diet consisting exclusively of dry foods for a short period resulted in a marked increase in blood pre s sure and impaired renal function indicators in healthy cats. These effects underscore the need to balance moisture and sodium content in feline foods.

Integrative approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of canine post-traumatic stress disorder

K. Lukianenko — 2025-09-11

Canine post-traumatic stress disorder is an increasingly recognized condition within veterinary behavioral medicine, reflecting a growing understanding of how trauma affects the psychological well-being of companion animals. Dogs exposed to acute or chronic stressors, including abuse, abandonment, military deployment, and natural disasters, may develop persistent behavioral disturbances consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder. However, diagnosis remains a significant challenge due to overlapping symptoms with other behavioral disorders, absence of standardized diagnostic criteria, and limited veterinary training in animal mental health. The analysis draws upon peer-reviewed literature published between 2005 and 2024 across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and CAB Abstracts. Selection criteria prioritized studies on post-traumatic stress disorder-related symptomatology, behavioral diagnostics, pharmacotherapy, and therapeutic interventions, with emphasis on methodological rigor and clinical applicability. While both human-based diagnostic frameworks and canine-specific behavioral assessments are discussed, their translational limitations are critically examined. Clinically, canine post-traumatic stress disorder manifests through hyperarousal, avoidance, aggression, anxiety, and depressive-like behaviors. Diagnosis necessitates comprehensive behavioral histories, validated screening instruments, and exclusion of differential diagnoses, including neurological, endocrine, and pain-related conditions. A c onsistent finding in literature is the essential role of interdisciplinary collaboration, involving veterinarians, behaviorists, psychologists, and professional trainers . Despite this, the veterinary profession continues to lack structured education in behavioral medicine, contributing to underdiagnosis and inconsistent treatment practices. Methodological limitations, including small sample sizes, non-validated outcome measures, and heterogeneity in definitions – further constrain evidence-based advancements. Future priorities include the development of standardized diagnostic criteria, large-scale epidemiological and neurobiological research, and investigation into novel pharmacological agents, including cannabinoid derivatives and neuropeptides. Public and professional education initiatives are also critical to improve recognition and management of post-traumatic stress disorder in dogs. A comprehensive, multidisciplinary, and ethically informed approach is imperative to enhance the quality of life for tra u matized animals and to advance veterinary behavioral science.

Share of positive changes in winter wheat varieties as parameter of action of a new epimutagenic agent

M. Nazarenko — 2025-09-12

The investigation of novel agents for inducing practical biodiversity in modern winter wheat varieties presents significant op portunities for developing new commercial cultivars and components for recombination breeding. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the epimutagen Nonidet P-40 (NP-40) for optimizing yield and grain quality parameters in mutant wheat forms. Eight winter wheat varieties (Perspektyva Odeska, Sonata Poltavska, Shpalivka, MIP Lada, Farell, NE 12443, Ronin, and Seilor) were exposed to NP-40 at concentrations of 0.01%, 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.5%, with a seed exposure period of 24 hours, adhering to established chemical mutagenesis protocols. The study identified clear patterns in epimutational processes affecting agriculturally valuable traits, thereby enhancing the predictability and reliability of mutation breeding programs. The varieties Farell, Ronin, and Perspektyva Odeska demonstrated particularly high potential for generating agriculturally valuable variability. Optimal epi mutagen concentrations (0.1% and 0.5% NP-40) produced substantial breeding variability, yielding valuable genetic material suitable for both direct commercialization and parental lines in hybridization programs. Notably, NP-40 induced epimutations with high reliability in traits such as improved microelement content, early ripeness, increased protein content, and reduced plant height. Moderately induced traits included elongated spikes, enhanced protein composition, improved productivity, and increased disease tolerance. NP-40 treatments, while highly effective overall, showed a strong dependency on genotype, suggesting targe ted variety selection is essential. Although the frequency of complex trait epimutations was relatively low, such epimutations, when present, proved highly valuable. Higher concentrations of NP-40 increased the risk of undesirable traits such as taller plants and delayed maturity, highlighting the necessity for balanced concentration management. Several promising epimutant winter wheat lines were identified as potential future commercial cultivars, exhibiting high grain productivity and superior bread-making quality, including one exceptional form noted for outstanding grain protein characteristics. Further research is planned to evaluate physiological adaptations of these new lines, particularly their resistance to abiotic stresses such as drought and winter hardiness.

The effect of carnitine, vitamins E and B12, methionine, selenium, and zinc as part of a complex preparation on the antioxidant status of rats under conditions of toxic liver injury

U. M. Vus — 2025-09-20

The relevance of this study stems from the fact that toxic liver injury is accompanied by the development of oxidative stress, which leads to structural and functional damage to hepatocytes, as well as disruption of the activity of key antioxidant defense enzymes. The study aimed to investigate the effect of Devivit Carnitine on lipid peroxidation parameters and the state of the glutathione antioxidant defense system in rats under conditions of carbon tetrachloride intoxication. The experiment was conducted on three groups of animals: a control group, an experimental group with carbon tetrachloride - induced liver injury, and an experimental group that received Devivit Carnitine in addition to carbon tetrachloride intoxication. Devivit Carnitine is a multicomponent preparation containing carnitine hydrochloride, vitamins E and B ₁₂ , methionine, selenium, and zinc. The levels of lipid hydroperoxides, TBA-active products, glutathione peroxidase activity, and reduced glutathione content in the blood of rats were assessed on days 2, 5, 10, and 14 of the experiment. Carbon tetrachloride intoxication caused a marked increase in lipid hydroperoxides and TBA-active products in the blood, along with inhibition of glutathione peroxidase activity and decreased glutathione content. Administration of Devivit Carnitine under these conditions significantly reduced lipid hydroperoxide and TBA-active product levels and normalized glutathione system parameters. By day 14, lipid hydroperoxide levels in animals of this group were close to physiological values, while glutathione peroxidase activity and reduced glutathione content reached control levels. The results confirm that Devivit Carnitine demonstrates pronounced antioxidant properties, manifested through inhibition of free radical oxidation processes and activation of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic components of antioxidant defense. The preparation may be a promising therapeutic agent in the complex treatment of toxic hepatoses, particularly those associated with oxid a tive stress, helping preserve the structural and functional integrity of the liver.