Search

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) represents a significant public health concern. In the majority of cases, the infection progresses to a chronic form, which is characterised by the development of fibrosis and cirrhosis of the liver. A plethora of cytokines and chemokines are generated as a consequence of inflammatory processes within the liver. These can exert a dual effect, both protective and damaging, particularly in relation to the death of hepatocytes and the progression of liver fibrosis. Furthermore, a number of growth factors have been identified as playing a role in the pathogenesis of CHC. The objective of the study was a comprehensive evaluation of a wide range of cytokines, chemokines and growth factors in the blood plasma of patients with CHC at varying stages of liver fibrosis. The study cohort comprised 63 patients diagnosed with CHC, who were divided into three groups according to the stage of liver fibrosis. The control group comprised healthy individuals (n = 32). Concentrations of the following cytokines were determined in plasma: Interleukins and some cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-1ra, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-9, IL-10, IL-12 (p40), IL-12 (p70), IL-13, IL-15, IL-17A, IL-17-E/IL-25, IL-17F, IL-18, IL-27, IFNα, IFNγ, TNFα, TNFβ); chemokines (CCL2/MCP-1, CCL3/MIP-1α, CCL4/MIP-1β, CCL7/MCP-3, CCL11/Eotaxin, CCL22/MDC, CXCL1/GROα, CXCL8/IL-8, CXCL9/MIG, CXCL10/IP-10, CX3CL1/Fractalkine) and growth factors (EGF, FGF-2, Flt-3L, G-CSF, M-CSF, PDGF-AA, PDGF-AB/BB, TGF-α, VEGF-A) by multiplex analysis based on xMAP technology. Nonparametric statistics methods were used for statistical analysis. As a result of the study, increased concentrations of cytokines IL-12 (p40), IL-15, IL-17E/IL-25, IL-27, IFNγ, TNFα, chemokines CXCL9/MIG and CXCL-10/IP-10 and growth factors FGF-2 and M-CSF were found at all stages of liver fibrosis. Elevated concentrations of cytokines IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-9, IL-10, IL-17F, IFNα, TNFβ, chemokines CCL2/MCP-1, CCL11/Eotaxin, CCL22/MDC and growth factors G-CSF, TGF-α, Flt-3L were found in severe liver fibrosis/cirrhosis. Correlation analysis revealed a relationship of high significance between the severity of liver fibrosis and the content of cytokines IL-6, IFNγ, TNFα, IL-7, chemokines CCL2/MCP-1, CCL11/Eotaxin, CXCL9/MIG, CXCL10/IP-10, CXCL1/GROα, growth factors TGF-α, PDGF-AA, PDGF-AB/BB. Thus, a certain profile of cytokines characteristic for CHC was revealed, cytokines, chemokines and growth factors significant for liver fibrosis in CHC were found.

Background. The teacher needs to analyse and promptly make changes in each student’s dosage of physical activity in the class. At the same time, students within the group differ from each other in gender, age, physical fitness and health level. Such differences make it difficult to clearly discern the individual characteristics of every student and thus to help them develop their physical data in the best way, choose a proper motor regime to improve their health. The aim of the work is to calculate and analyse the physical health index for 1st-year students of the 2023-2024 academic year at the Russian New University in scores in order to control their physical condition in the discipline “Physical Culture”. Materials and methods. The survey used the methods, tests and computer programmes developed by the Association “People’s Sports Park”. The Association “People’s Sports Park” has a patent of the Russian Federation No. 2147208 for the “Method of assessing physical health reserves and working capacity of the population” and the ownership right to the computer programme processing and evaluating testing results for different categories of the population. Materials of the research: data from 15 tests for the following human body systems: cardiovascular, respiratory, muscular, nervous. The tests include measurements made both in the state of relative dormancy and in dynamics. The main method of working with the obtained data was their statistical processing and analysis of its results. Results. The article reflects the findings of the study of the first-year students’ heart rhythm obtained with the use of technical means and recorded in real time. The calculation of the physical health index (PHI) of the first-year students made in the 2023-2024 academic year showed the following distribution: • 34% of the students scored between 3 and 3.9 out of 6 points maximum and have a satisfactory level of health and performance ability; • 41% of the first-year students have an unsatisfactory physical condition, which corresponds to 2.0-2.9 points out of 6 maximum; • 25% of the first-year students have good and excellent health levels, which corresponds to 4-6 points; • 75% of the first-year students have a quality of health that requires perfection and maximum control by specialists.

Background: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a group of neoplasms, in which circulating biomarkers chromogranin A (CgA), serotonin, and N-terminal brain natriuretic pro-peptide (NT-proBNP), used as a marker of carcinoid heart disease, are especially important in the diagnosis and monitoring. A number of pre-analytical factors, including patients' body mass index (BMI), have an impact on NETs biomarker concentrations. Aim: To perform a comparative analysis of serum concentrations of CgA, serotonin and NT-proBNP in patients with NETs of various locations with normal body weight and with overweight or obesity. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 94 patients with NETs of various locations and 78 provisionally healthy individuals without cancer and cardiovascular disorders, matched by gender and age to the patients. Serum biochemical markers were measured before a course of chemotherapy/biotherapy or surgery with the use of standardized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays Chromogranin A NEOELISA (Eurodiagnostica), Serotonin ELISA (IBL), and the electrochemiluminescent assay (Cobas e601 analyzer, Roche). All NETs patients were divided into 2 subgroups: 46 patients with normal bodyweight (BMI 18 to 24.9) and 48 patients with overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25). Results: The median BMI in the NET patients did not vary depending on their tumor extension, functional activity and malignancy grade. The median concentrations of CgA (150 ng/ml), serotonin (188 ng/ml) and NT-proBNP (117 pg/ml) in the NET patients with obesity and overweight were significantly lower (p = 0.008, p = 0.005 and p = 0.012, respectively) than in the NET patients with normal body weight (769 ng/ml, 704 ng/ml and 197 pg/ml, respectively). In the control group, significantly (p = 0.0001) lower levels in the subgroup with BMI ≥ 25 were obtained only for serotonin. The ROC analysis showed a decrease of the diagnostic efficiency of NET biomarkers in obesity: in the normal BMI group AUC (CgA) was 0.87 and AUC (serotonin) 0.78, whereas in those with BMI ≥ 25, the AUC (CgA) and AUC (serotonin) were 0.81 and 0.62, respectively. Conclusion: Obesity may make it difficult to identify biochemical markers of NETs – CgA, serotonin and NT-proBNP.

Introduction The differential diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is challenging in patients with systemic diseases due to identical clinical and laboratory patterns and activity of the inflammatory process. The objective was to evaluate the diagnostic data and results of debridement of PJI in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using a case series. Material and methods A retrospective analysis of surgical treatment of PJI was produced in patients with rheumatoid arthritis between 2014 and 2022. PJI was verified based on ICM criteria. A poor outcome included the presence of clinical and laboratory signs of infection on admission to the second stage of treatment and recurrence after successful debridement. Results Among the 524 cases of PJI, 35 (6.7 %) were patients with rheumatoid arthritis with 48.6 % receiving antibiotics prior to admission. Culture-negative infection was recorded in 38.4 %. PJI was not confirmed in five cases (14.3 %). High average values of inflammatory markers were registered in the blood (ESR, CRP and D-dimer) before and after debridement; decreased ESR and leukocyte count in the synovial fluid was statistically significant. Favorable outcomes were obtained in 82.9 % of cases at mid term with every fifth patient treated with a spacer or arthrodesis. Discussion The incidence of culture-negative infection in patients with systemic diseases was reported as much as 27–37 %. A systematic review of the literature showed that the percentage of band neutrophils in synovial fluid has a sensitivity of 95.2 % and a specificity of 85.0 %, with an optimal threshold of 78 % sufficient to verify infection. The poor outcomes we identified resulted from two- or three-stage surgical treatment. Other authors reported better outcomes with two-stage debridement. Conclusion Culture-negative infection was common in cases of PJI observed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Favorable outcomes were seen mostly with two-stage surgical treatment. Inflammatory markers ESR, CRP and D-dimer did not reach normal values during diagnosis and treatment of infection indicating the inapplicability of standard diagnostic criteria for PJI in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Background. The etiological structure of implant-associated infection and antibiotic resistance of pathogens are important when choosing empirical antibiotic therapy. COVID-19 pandemic and increased consumption of antibiotics by the population could provoke an increase in antibiotic resistance.The aim of the work. To compare the spectrum of leading pathogens of implantassociated infection in the pre- and post-Covid period and to assess antibiotic resistance.Materials and methods. A continuous retrospective study of biomaterial samples from traumatology and orthopedic patients with implant-associated infection was carried out for 2018–2019 and 2021–2022. The sample consisted of 548 microorganism strains (n = 237 and n = 317, respectively) in 442 cases of infectious complications. The antibiotic resistance of all isolated microorganisms, including those from microbial associations, was assessed.Results. The leading pathogen of monomicrobial implant-associated infection in both study periods was Staphylococcus epidermidis (33–37 %). In 2021–2022, the proportion of microbial associations increased (from 12.5 to 17.5 %; p = 0.147) with the appearance of fungi in the microbial landscape. In the post-Covid period, the increase in Staphylococcus aureus resistance to tetracycline and doxycycline was revealed; the isolation of methicillin-resistant strains among Staphylococcus aureus decreased from 4 cases (out of 187) to 3 (out of 232); 100 % sensitivity to rifampicin and co-trimoxazole was maintained. An increase in Staphylococcus epidermidis resistance to all tested antibiotics was detected (statistically significant increase in resistance to fluoroquinolones; p = 0.002–0.003) with the isolation of methicillin-resistant strains in 80.5% and 80.9% of cases, respectively. All staphylococcal isolates were susceptible to vancomycin and linezolid. Enterobacteriaceae representatives showed a decrease in resistance to carbapenems and an increase in resistance to co-trimoxazole; in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii, there is an increase in resistance to carbapenems and fluoroquinolones. All gram-negative microorganisms were sensitive to colistin.Conclusion. The high frequency of isolation of methicillin-resistant staphylococci determines the choice of vancomycin for empirical therapy. Increasing resistance of staphylococci to fluoroquinolones may limit their use. Increasing resistance of gram-negative bacteria and a narrow spectrum of antibiotics acting on carbapenemase producers may reduce the effectiveness of therapy.

Currently, qualified generating stations powered by renewable ener gy sources (hereinafter referred to as RES) are becoming increasingly popular in the electric power industry. Wind farms and solar generating panels have become mostly common in the modern world. Russia is a vast country that offers many potential locations for RES facilities. The аrctic zones attract special attention. However, having chosen a potential location for the construction of such an object, it is necessary to analyse the effectiveness and feasibility of the investment project. The purpose of this study is to consider the current state of the Murmansk region’s energy system for further determination of the probability of new energy projects developing there. In this regard, the wind energy potential of the region has been assessed, and the forecast of electricity consumption for the period from 2024 to 2029 has been performed. The authors have analysed justifications and possibilities for the construction of wind power plants on the territory of the Kola Peninsula as an alternative to stations powered by hydrocarbon fuels. It has been found that the existing opportunities in the Russian region are favourable for the realisation of new wind farm on its territory. A comparative analysis of the Murmansk region and neighboring territories has shown that this area is suitable for implementing such investment projects.

Developed countries offset global warming by abandoning high-carbon products in favour of low-carbon products and by introducing a transboundary carbon tax for those countries that are unable to make the transition immediately. One of the ways of the transition in developed countries is proposed generation of electricity from renewable energy sources (hereinafter referred to as RES). The purpose of the article is to assess the consequences of ­using RES as one of the ways to the transition to low-carbon products. RES are the object of the study, especially wind and solar power plants. Energy generation on them is considered an environmentally friendly production and does not require large operational costs. The subject of the study is economic relations that occur concerning construction and use of RES. The methodological basis of the study includes general scientific methods (generalization, systematisation) and economic-statistical methods (comparative analysis, tabular techniques for data visualisation). The main results of the study lie in justifying large investment costs in RES which are associated with provision of significant areas of land and sea and their withdrawal from agricultural turnover; with scarce and poorly developed deposits of non-energy commodities which are necessary for the creation of RES equipment; with unevenness in energy production and its low density in wind and solar power plants. That requires investments in storage and balancing systems. In pursuit of environmentally friendly production the West does not consider many components of economic efficiency: environmental protection and safety of working and living conditions of some countries in Asia, Africa and South America, and natural means of absorbing greenhouse gases. It should be ignored in the future when justifying economic efficiency of RES.

The issues of recurrencies in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) still remain unresolved. Therefore, detection patients with uncontrolled clinical course of CRSwNP is required.The aim of the present study was to assess cytokine profile in nasal polyps as well as clinical characteristics of patients with CRSwNP at varying levels of therapeutic control.The study included 99 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. The contents of interferon IFNγ, interleukin IL- 1β, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, tumor necrosis factor TNFα, transforming growth factors TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TGF-β3 were measured in polyp tissue samples by means of multiplex analysis. The patients were treated according to a stepwise СRSwNP therapeutic algorithm [9]. Following observation for 5 years, all patients were divided into groups, as based on medical control degree. Group 1 included patients with mild CRSwNP, who mainly received stage I and II treatment for the entire observation period. Group 2 was presented by moderate- severity CRSwNP, with stage II or III therapy according to the referred algorithm. Group 3 included the patients with severe CRSwNP who received one or more stage IV courses. The patients underwent repeated SNOT-22 questionnaire, endoscopic examination, clinical assessment. In case of bronchial asthma (BA), ACQ-7 was repeated. Initial cytokine profile of nasal polyps was analyzed by the mentioned clinical groups.Results:After 5 years of observations in group 1 (mild CRSwNP), we found a minimal decrease in quality of life (SNOT-22), severity of nasal congestion, or smell impairment. Bronchial asthma duration in these patients was significantly lower compared to group 3, the patients had better asthma control level. Cytokine profile of nasal polyps was characterized by the highest IL-4 concentration, average values IL-1β, TNFα, IFNγ and minimal TGF-β1 values.In group 2 (moderate CRSwNP), we noted more pronouced impairment of smell, nasal congestion and quality of life. Bronchial asthma was less controlled than in group 1. The maximal concentrations of IFNγ, IL-1β, TNFα, IL-5, TGF-β1, TGF-β2 were registered.In group 3 with poor CRSwNP control, the highest SNOT-22 scores, severity of difficulty in nasal breathing, impaired sense of smell were revealed. Duration of bronchial asthma was longer, with lowest levels of medical control. In nasal polyps, minimal levels of IFNγ, IL-1β, TNFα, IL-4, IL-5, TGF-β2, TGF-β3 were noted.Treatment of patients depending on the clinical phenotypes of CRSwNP in the presence/absence of allergic rhinitis or bronchial asthma may improve control and reduce incidence of relapses in CRSwNP.

The current research examines the mechanism of concession agreements, functioning in the sphere of heat supply, the ways of its conclusion, its advantages and differences from lease agreements. The effectiveness of the use of concessions is proved on the example of Voronezh and Perm energy companies. The renewal of the Russian heat supply system is, unfortunately, extremely slow. Despite the measures taken, the dynamics of equipment failures, accidents and heat losses have not yet been changed: their number is still gro wing. In a year, it is possible to update only half of the fixed assets from the need. The reasons for this are their sharp moral and physical ageing and lack of investors who would finance reconstruction, modernisation and erection of new heating system objects. The owners of the systems in many Russian regions are municipalities whose budget funds are insufficient to upgrade them. Mechanisms of public-private partnership (concession agreements are one of its manifestations) together with the “alternative boiler house” mo del should contribute to rectifying the situation. However, unconscientiousness of some investors, the failure to fulfill their obligations for construction and reconstruction of heat supply systems question the effectiveness of the mechanism and reduces them to lease agreements involving only operation of leased worn equipment. According to the research, the authors concluded that it is necessary to improve the discussed mechanism, monitor implementation of the agreements and strengthen administrative responsibility for non-compliance.

Objective. To present a brief description of a series of clinical cases of infectious spondylodiscitis with an assessment of the used diagnostic criteria in terms of their influence on the choice of sanifying treatment tactics. Material and Methods. A continuous retrospective study of 39 cases of spondylodiscitis was carried out. Level of evidence is IIIC. The level of ESR, serum C-reactive protein, the results of the study of biopsy materials, and CT and MRI data were evaluated. Criteria of neurological deficit, instability of the spinal motion segment, and recommendations for assessing the clinical and radiological severity of the disease were used to select the treatment tactics. Treatment success was defined as primary wound healing, absence of recurrent infection and/or death, and satisfaction with treatment according to the EQ-5D and EQ-VAS scales at a follow-up period of 22.5 months. Results. The average age of patients was 57.4 years. Primary spondylodiscitis accounted for 82 %, the predominant localization of the pathological focus was the lumbar spine (56.4 %), and staphylococci were predominant etiologic agents (59.1 %). On average, the increase in ESR was 45 mm/h, C-reactive protein – 57 ng/l, and D-dimer – 1235 pg/ml. The level of pain before sanation according to the VAS scale was 6.79 points, after the operation it was 2.3 points (p < 0.05). Instability of the spinal motion segment according to the SINS scale was revealed in 36 cases, paravertebral abscess according to MRI – in 51.3 % of cases, and neurological deficit – in 38.5 % of cases. Severe spondylodiscitis according to the SponDT scale was noted in 53.8 %, moderate – in 43.6 %, and mild – in 2.6 % of patients. According to the clinical and radiological classification of infectious spondylodiscitis severity (SSC), grade I was present in 2 patients, grade II – in 21, and grade III – in 6. Compliance of the chosen treatment tactics with current recommendations was noted in 94,9 % of cases. Recurrence of infection was observed in 7.7 %; lethal outcome – in 5.1 %. Satisfaction with the quality of life according to EQ-5D was 0.74 points, and according to EQ-VAS – 73.88 points. Conclusions. The integrated use of criteria for neurological deficit, instability of spinal motion segments, and severity of the disease according to the SponDT classification with the account of Pola’s recommendations on treatment tactics made it possible to choose the optimal treatment tactics and achieve satisfactory results in the sanation of patients with infectious spondylodiscitis.

The article studies the improvement of the production activities of a large electric power company in the Moscow region, Public joint stock company “Mosenergo” (hereinafter referred to as “Mosenergo”) by proposing a set of measures for a radical renovation (reengineering) of the main technological business process – “Heat and electricity production”. Based on the process approach and methods of strategic analysis, SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats), the key company success factors were identified, an enlarged business model of “Mosenergo” was built and analysed, followed by the selection of the most preferable business process. With the help of a matrix of criteria, an assessment of business process importance or readiness for the implementation of the selected strategies was made. Key success factors for “Production of heat and electricity” business process were formed. However, in modern conditions, due to the tightening of sanctions imposed by unfriendly countries, the risks of supply disruptions and termination of equipment maintenance are increasing, which causes negative trends in key performance indicators of the selected business process, namely the accident rate and/or the frequency of emergency operation of automatics cases. The set of measures for reengineering the business process “Production of heat and electricity” is based on the idea of automatic technological business process of the company through the introduction of highly effective domestic digital technologies as part of the industry’s digital transformation strategy. The import substitution programme to minimise risks caused by geopolitical events in the world is considered.

The soil is a depositing medium and an indicator of geochemical load. The fulfillment of important ecosystem functions by urban soils ensures the ecological safety of urban ecosystems as a whole. The purpose of the work is to forecast soil pollution as a basic component of the urban ecosystem with a high level of technogenic load. The calculation of the spatio-temporal fields of chemical pollution of soils in the city of Kolchugino, Vladimir region, was carried out using a balance model based on ecological and analytical data utilizing the results of area surveys of soils and snow cover. The content of heavy metals of hazard classes 1 and 2 in soil and snow samples (solid and liquid phases) was determined by atomic absorption method according to standard methods. The analysis of spatio-temporal fields of soil contamination for each heavy metal is performed on the basis of map diagrams constructed using the INTEGRO GIS software-technological complex. Taking into account aerotechnogenic intake, an assessment of the degree of accumulation of heavy metals in soils and their time to reach the critical level is given. In the soils of Kolchugino, an excess of sanitary and hygienic standards (gross forms) is revealed for all the metals studied. Analysis of the data of spatio-temporal fields of soil pollution with heavy metals in the city of Kolchugino showed that the established level of soil pollution exceeding the MPC is primarily associated with the past economic activity of non-ferrous metallurgy enterprises and will remain at the same level in the near future.

Introduction Diagnosis of chronic periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is difficult with the clinical signs of periprosthetic inflammation showing no growth of microorganism in the biomaterial. The frequency of culture-negative infection can reach 42.1 %. The objective of the study was to analyze outcomes of two-stage treatment of chronic PJI of the knee joint depending on the etiology of the infectious process. Material and methods A retrospective analysis of outcomes was produced for 103 patients: group I (n=30) showing no growth of microorganisms and group II (n = 73) demonstrating positive growth of pathogens. Knee PJI was diagnosed according to the 2018 ICM criteria. A favorable outcome suggested absence of recurrence for at least two years after reimplantation of endoprosthesis, arthrodesis, “life with a spacer” without signs of infection. Results Culture-negative infection was detected in 29.1 % (n = 30). Patients in the group were 1.5 times more likely to receive antibiotic therapy prior to admission and had average levels of CRP, ESR and articular leukocyte count being 1.5-2 times less than those in group II. Staphylococci (69.8 %) including MRSE (75 %) was the leading pathogen in group II. Recurrence of infection was 3.4 % in group I and 16.9 % in group II (p = 0.0928), the two-stage treatment was successful in 96.7 % and 74 %, respectively (p = 0.0064). Discussion Causes for the lack of growth of microorganisms in biological materials included previous antibiotic therapy, wound drainage, violations of the rules for sampling of biological material, absence of media for the growth of atypical microorganisms and the ability of microorganisms to form biofilms on implant surfaces. An emergency histological examination of the affected tissues was practical during surgery in doubtful situations for adequate surgical approach. The results of a meta-analysis (2023) showed that the replacement of an infected endoprosthesis was more effective for the treatment of a culture-negative infection compared to debridement and preservation of implant. Conclusion The culture-negative infection group in our series showed better success rate of a two-stage treatment of PJI using implant replacement and broad-spectrum empiric antibiotic therapy at a two-year follow-up period. The negative microbiological result in the group could be caused by antibacterial drugs administered prior to diagnosis of PJI.

The paper presents data on a three-year study (2020-2022) of the effect of a liquid-phase biological product containing iron nanoparticles (LPB-Fe), obtained by biosynthesis using green tea extract, on the yield of potatoes of the Skarb variety and the activity of soil enzymes under the conditions of Tverskaya areas. Comparative efficiency of LPB-Fe, the original LPB biopreparation, solution of iron nanoparticles Fe NPs was studied in the field against the background of NPK application. The results showed that the maximum productivity (669.1 g/bush) of potatoes was obtained by foliar treatment of vegetative plants with a 1% solution of LPB-Fe – 16.9 % more than the control variant (NPK background). With the separate use of a 1% solution of LPB and a 1% solution of Fe NPs, the productivity was 628.4 and 550.6 g/plant, respectively, which indicates an increase in their impact on potato plants when used together as part of LPB-Fe. It was noted that the activity of invertase correlated with the content of humus in the soil, and the activity of the protease correlated with the content of readily hydrolysable nitrogen. In addition, the study of the activity of enzymes in the soil under potatoes (catalase, dehydrogenase, invertase, cellulase and protease) showed that they have a significant impact on the yield of potatoes at different stages of the growing season with various technological methods of using biological preparations. For example, when treating potato tubers at the seedling stage, an inverse relationship was found between catalase activity in the soil and yield: the higher the enzyme activity, the lower the yield (correlation coefficient is -0.82). And in the case of cellulase, with the same technological method, on the contrary, a direct dependence is observed: the higher the activity of the enzyme in the soil at the seedling stage, the greater the yield (correlation coefficient is 0.72). Thus, when soil and plants are exposed to Fe-containing biological products, the activity of enzymes responsible for the transformation of the main biogenic elements (carbon and nitrogen) and redox processes occurring in the soil changes, which ultimately leads to a change in soil fertility and, therefore, either decrease or increase of crop yields.method, on the contrary, a direct dependence is observed: the higher the activity of the enzyme in the soil at the seedling stage, the greater the yield (correlation coefficient is 0.72). Thus, when soil and plants are exposed to Fe-containing biological products, the activity of enzymes responsible for the transformation of the main biogenic elements (carbon and nitrogen) and redox processes occurring in the soil changes, which ultimately leads to a change in soil fertility and, therefore, either decrease or increase of crop yields.

The article analyzes the current state of digital technologies in industry in general and in the oil industry in particular. To understand the essence of digitalization, the authors consider some of the provisions set out in the state program “Digital Economy of the Russian Federation”. Relevant digital technologies are proposed for use for each stage of the oil cycle, considering the technological and economic features, and the possibility of introducing digital technologies into the business processes of oil and gas companies is assessed. In the final part of the article, based on the analysis of the prospects for the implementation of digital economy technologies in oil and gas companies, the results from the implementation of these technologies are identified, which manifest themselves both in the financial aspect and in intangible assets. At the same time, the article also identifies the most significant risks associated with the implementation and operation of business processes based on digital technologies.

The article notes the lack of investment in heat supply market, which leads to increased wear and tear of both heat sources and heating networks, huge heat losses and non-competitiveness of district heating systems. A proposal is being considered to implement a new model of the heat market in all regions of Russia and to switch from direct state regulation of tariffs for heat energy (capacity) to contractual tariffs, the maximum level of which is determined by the “alternative boiler house” method. However, for those regions where the existing tariffs for heat energy (capacity) are higher than the established limit levels using the “alternative boiler house” method, the authors propose the use of other approaches and methods of tariff regulation, in particular, examples, advantages and disadvantages of using energy service contracts, tariff regulation based on method of return on invested capital, new legislation in terms of obtaining long-term loans for the modernization of infrastructure from the National Welfare Fund and the Housing and Utilities Reform Assistance Fund.

Background. Arthroplasty is the most common surgical treatment for patients with end-stage knee arthrosis. From 2 to 7% of those operated on are patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The inflammatory process in the joint, low rehabilitation potential, long-term therapy with hormonal and genetically engineered biological agents, poor bone quality form a high risk of periprosthetic infection. In this group of patients, the saprophytic microorganism Candida albicans more often forms biofilms on endoprosthesis components, which presents difficulties in the treatment of periprosthetic infection.Aims: demonstration of a clinical case and rationale for the treatment of periprosthetic knee infection caused by Candida albicans using a revision implant with an anti-biofilm coating.Materials and methods. A clinical case presents the results of examination and treatment of a 46-year-old patient with secondary gonarthrosis on the background of rheumatoid arthritis with developed periprosthetic infection are evaluated. Surgical treatment was carried out by two-stage sanitation, using as part of the spacer an implant coated with silver-doped two-dimensionally ordered linear-chain carbon, against the background of etiotropic intravenous treatment with fluconazole.Results. The likely cause of the development of a fungal periprosthetic infection is a decrease in the activity of the immune system against the background of taking cytostatics and hormonal drugs in combination with the frequent uncontrolled use of antibacterial drugs. The choice of surgical tactics in favor of a two-stage revision is justified by the isolation of a «difficult to treat» Candida albicans. Timely diagnosis and the chosen method of treatment in combination allowed to no recurrence during the observation period of 12 months after the 2nd stage of revision.Conclusions. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of a spacer coated with silver-doped two-dimensionally ordered linear-chain carbon at the stage of sanitation for the treatment of periprosthetic infection caused by the «difficult to treat» Candida albicans.

Background. In order to fully reveal the advantages of a cultivar and use it effectively in production, it is necessary to ensure high sowing and varietal qualities of seeds, which requires improvement in breeding and seed production. Biotechnological methods are increasingly used in initial seed production. High efficiency was shown by the method of electrophoresis of seed storage proteins – prolamins. The aim of this study was to assess the biotype composition and allelic state of the prolamin-coding loci in the new spring oat cultivar ‘Tobolyak’ for its further use in initial seed production.Materials and methods. In 2021, 1519 families of cv. ‘Tobolyak’ were studied using the method of native electrophoresis. Three grains from each family were selected for analyses by random sampling. Electrophoresis was carried out in vertical plates of 13.2% polyacrylamide gel at a constant voltage of 500 V for 4.5–5.0 hours.Results and conclusion. The study of cv. ‘Tobolyak’ families resulted in identifying 13 types of avenin patterns with a frequency of occurrence from 96.36 to 0.07%. A new block of avenin components controlled by the allele of the Avn B locus was described. Number 8 was assigned to this block. It was established that cv. ‘Tobolyak’ had been developed by crossing a minor biotype of cv. ‘Taezhnik’ (Avn 4.4.2) with the first biotype of cv. ‘Orion’ (Avn 2.8.2). The basis of cv. ‘Tobolyak’ was one genotype with the Avn 4.8.2 avenin formula. The remaining biotypes arose as a result of crossing the biotypes of cvs. ‘Taezhnik’ and ‘Orion’ as well as through mechanical contamination. To maintain the genetic stability of cv. ‘Tobolyak’, it is recommended to use only families of the first biotype in the process of original seed production.

Introduction. Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is considered a multifactorial disease. There are data on the contribution of fungi and viruses to the initiation and development of the inflammatory process, data on the effect of superantigens, biofilms and microbiota on the growth of polyps in the paranasal sinuses. Exacerbation of the disease in patients with CRSwNP leads to a significant decrease in the quality of life. Aim. To study the bacterial component of the microbiota of nasal and paranasal mucosa in patients with CRSwNP during remission and exacerbation. Materials and methods. 83 patients with CRSwNP were examined (44 patients in remission, 39 people in the period of exacerbation of the disease). A qualitative and quantitative analysis of bacterial component of the microbiota in all patients were carried out. Results. No significant differences in the qualitative and quantitative composition of the nasal cavity microbiota during exacerbation and remission of inflammatory process were observed, as well as before and after treatment of the CRSwNP exacerbation. The quantitative assessment of the identified microorganisms in the vast majority of cases was within the normal range.

Background. Leukotrienes play an important role in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis (AR) and eosinophilic type of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). There is a phenotype of CRSwNP in combination with AR, which has specifics of local inflammation.The aim of our study was to investigate the efficacy of using an antileukotriene drug in the treatment of AR in combination with CRSwNP.Materials and methods. 63 patients with AR and bilateral CRSwNP after endoscopic bilateral polypotomy were randomly divided into 2 groups. In the 1st group 32 people (age 50.28 ± 1.37 years) were prescribed a basic therapy with nasal spray of mometasone furoate at a daily dose of 400 µg in combination with montelukast 1 tab. 10 mg at night, in the 2nd group 31 people (age 50.31 ± 1, 16 years old) received only mometasone furoate monotherapy. Endoscopic examination of the nasal cavity was performed once every 3 months. The follow-up period was 1 year.Results. After 3 months in the 1st group of patients there was a recurrence of polyp growth was observed in 25% of cases, in the 2nd group in 35.5% of patients (p < 0.05). After 6 months, the number of relapses of CRSwNP decreased to 15.6% of cases in group 1 and to 22.6% in group 2 (p < 0.05). After 9 months in group 1 recurrence of NP was recorded in 12.5% of patients and nasal polyps were completely absent during endoscopic examination in 9.4% of cases, in the 2nd group, relapse was detected in 19.35% of patients (p < 0.05). 1 year after surgery, in group 1, relapse of NP was found in 12.5% of patients with AR and in 12.5% of cases was remission of the pathological process with cancellation of basic therapy. In group 2, recurrence of NP was in 16.1% of cases, there were no reasons for withdraw treatment of intranasal glucocorticosteroids in this group.Discussion. The clinical effectiveness of the addition of Montelukast to basic therapy has been reflected in a reduction in the growth rate of polyposic vegetation, the number of repeated operations and the stabilization of the flow of chronic inflammatory process.Conclusions. In the case of the clinical phenotype of AR with CRSwNP, the addition of a leukotriene receptor blocker montelukast to the basic therapy of intranasal glucocorticosteroids made it possible to improve drug control of both diseases and reduce the frequency of CRSwNP relapses.

The Paris Climate Agreement has endorsed a strategic course towards “carbon neutrality” by 2050. Currently, all or at least most of the anthropogenic CO2 emission in Russia is absorbed by forests. The main sources of CO2 emission are fuel and energy sectors, including the electric power industry and transport. The introduction of a “carbon” tax can cause big losses for Russian manufacturers. To reduce the carbon intensity of electricity production and maintain “carbon neutrality” in the future Russia has to increase generation at nuclear, hydroelectric and other renewable energy sources, take measures to improve the fuel combustion efficiency at coal-fired power plants and introduce more economical gas turbine and combined cycle equipment installations at gas power plants.

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSP) is a heterogenous disease. We have earlier detected differences in severity of clinical manifestations, cellular infiltration degree shown in nasal polyps, of eosinophil-to-neutrophil ratio, efficacy of intranasal glucocorticosteroid baseline therapy, and various inflammatory patterns for several cytokines on the mRNA expression level in different phenotypes with isolated CRSP cases, CRSP associated with respiratory allergy (RA), or non-allergic bronchial asthma.The purpose of this work was to study the cytokines of TGF-â family in the tissues of nasal polyps in patients with different CRSP phenotypes. The research involved 292 patients suffering from CRSP divided into 3 phenotypic groups. Group I consisted of patients with isolated CRSP free of associated BA and/or sensitization to atopic allergens. Group II included patients with CRSP combined with respiratory allergy and was further divided into two subgroups. I.e., Group 2a comprised patients with CRSP, allergic BA (aBA), and allergic rhinitis (AR), while the patients with CRSP, AR, and non-allergic BA were placed to the group 2b. The patients suffering from CRSP complicated with non-allergic BA were allocated to the group III. The patients with hypertrophic rhinitis served as control. The levels of TGF-â1, TGF-â2, and TGF-â3 proteins (pg/mg) were measured by means of multiplex immunoassay approach in supernates of tissue homogenates from nasal polyps removed by surgery, and in posterior parts of inferior nasal conchae. The total protein level was determined in tissue supernatant, with cytokine contents recalculated for the mg/ml protein concentration for standardization of measurements.In the control group, trace concentrations of all three growth factors were detected. Significant difference in protein contents was found for the studied cytokines, depending on CRSP phenotype. The levels of TGF-â1 and TGF-â2 were statistically lower in isolated CRSP than in other groups of comorbid CRSP patients. TGF-â1 and TGF-â2 concentrations were significantly lower in CRSP + allergic BA group IIa than in CRSP + nonallergic BA and CRSP + RA groups. The amount of TGF-â3 cytokine was maximal in CRSP + non-allergic BA group III compared to the patients with isolated CRSP of group I and CRSP + non-allergic BA group 2a.Conclusions.The high level of all three TGF-â isoforms in patients with CRSP compared to the control group suggested a high potential of mucous membranes of paranasal sinuses for active tissue remodeling followed by nasal polype formation.Different mechanisms were presumed for development of local pathological process in different clinical phenotypes of CRSP, depending on the comorbid pathology, especially, BA or respiratory disorders.Minimal TGF-â1 and TGF-â2 levels were detected in isolated CRSP.The highest concentrations of TGF-â1, TGF-â2, and TGF-â3 were discovered in the patients with CRSP accompanied by non-allergic BA as compared to the groups with isolated CRSP and CRSP+allergic BA.5. Determination of TGF-â1, TGF-â2, and TGF-â3 levels can serve as an additional criterion for differentiating between the mechanisms of mucous membrane damage in local pathological process in tissues of comorbid patients with different CRSP phenotypes.

Background. Vaccination is the most effective method for reducing morbidity, disability, mortality from of various infections. However, there was a view for a long time that vaccines are ineffective and unsafe to use in people with rheumatological diseases, including juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Objective.The aim of the study is to analyze literature data on safety and efficacy of vaccination for JIA patients with live and non-live vaccines.Methods: literature analysis was based on data from medical databases PubMed and Google Scholar.Results. Both live and non-live vaccines are safe and immunogenic enough for children with JIA. Most studies confirm vaccination efficacy in patients with JIA when using glucocorticosteroids (GCS) and methotrexate, while therapy with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD) can reduce antibody titers over time. In general, antibodies levels preservation in previously vaccinated children with JIA is less than in global population. This indicates the need to administer booster doses for such patients. No adverse effects on the course of primary disease after vaccination and no post-vaccine complications were revealed.Conclusion. Vaccination of patients with JIA should be performed with reference to the therapy that the patient already receives, under the control of antibodies level. Booster doses should be implemented in case of titers decrease below the protective levels.

Introduction. Carcinoid syndrome is the most common functional syndrome in patients with neuroendocrine tumors. More than 40 biochemical factors are responsible for the manifestation of carcinoid syndrome, among which serotonin is the most important. The study of biochemical markers of carcinoid syndrome and associated carcinoid heart disease is an important aim of laboratory examination in neuroendocrine tumors patients.Aim. Analysis of levels and diagnostic efficiency evaluation of chromogranin A (CgA), serotonin, pro-brain natriuretic peptide (proBNP) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-BB) in the blood serum of neuroendocrine tumors patients with various clinical manifestations, including carcinoid syndrome and carcinoid heart disease.Materials and methods. 66 patients with neuroendocrine tumors of various localizations were examined (pancreas – 24 cases, small intestine – 21, large intestine – 6, lungs – 10, unkown primary focus – 5). 38 patients had liver metastases. In 43 patients, a clinic of carcinoid syndrome was observed, 16 had signs of carcinoid heart disease. The control group consisted of 30 practically healthy people. Serum levels of CgA, serotonin, and PDGF-BB were determined by enzyme immunoassay in microplate format: Chromogranin A NEOLISA (Eurodiagnostica, Sweden), Serotonin ELISA (IBL, German), and PDGF-BB ELISA Kit (Invitrogen, USA). The proBNP analysis was performed on a Cobas e601 automated analyzer (Roche, Switzerland).Results. In carcinoid syndrome, the medians of CgA, serotonin, and proBNP were the highest, differing statistically significantly from the control group. In patients with G3 tumors, the median PDGF-BB was statistically significantly higher than in controls, in contrast to G1 and G2. The highest diagnostic sensitivity in the general neuroendocrine tumors group was in CgA – 63.6 %, with a specificity of 100 %. In patients with carcinoid syndrome, the highest diagnostic sensitivity was characteristic of serotonin and chromogranin A (79 %), while in patients with CAD clinic, proBNP had the highest sensitivity – 93.8 %.Conclusion. The study revealed the high efficiency of СgA, with the highest sensitivity in common forms and tumors with high biological activity. Serotonin can be used in the diagnosis of carcinoid syndrome, associated with cardiofibrosis development. Pro-brain natriuretic peptide is a highly sensitive and specific marker of carcinoid heart disease. The highest levels of PDGF-BB are associated with a high grade of neuroendocrine tumors malignancy.

Introduction. Immunoenzyme assay of biochemical markers is one of the most important methods for examination of pa- tients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Along with the generally accepted NET marker chromogranin A (CgA), another member of the granin family, chromogranin B (CgB), can serve as a complementary marker.Objectives. Analysis of CgB as an additional to CgA biochemical marker in the blood serum of patients with gastric and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.Materials and methods. We examined 79 patients with gastic (n = 14) and pancretic (n = 65) NETS, and 42 particularly healthy people, who were included in the control group. CgB and CgA were determined with ELISA method using the Human Chromogranin B (USCN, China) and Chromogranin A NEOLISA (Eurodiagnostica, Sweden) test systems., Results. CgB levels in gastric and pancreatic NETs were significantly higher than in control group. CgB concentrations were independent of tumor spread and its biological activity. ROC analysis in common group of NETs relative to control group showed AUC for CgB = 0.869 and for CgA AUC = 0.82. According to results in common group of NET patients when used isolated, CgA and CgB have comparable diagnostic sensitivity, which increases in complex use to 82.5 %. In the group of NET patients with low levels of CgA (15.7 ng/ml) was observed in 53.6 % of cases.Conclusion. The combination of CgB and CgA in gastric and pancreatic NETs could increase the diagnostic efficacy of bio- chemical diagnostics. The received data confirms the significance of CgB as a complementary biomarker of NETs.

A promising direction in agriculture is the use of metal nanoparticles as nanofertilizers, which can increase the yield of agricultural crops and, at the same time, minimize the frequency of fertilization due to the long-term release of nutrients. One of the environmentally safest and cheapest methods of synthesizing metal nanoparticles is biosynthesis using plant extracts. During the redox reaction, proteins, carbohydrates, organic acids, phenols and other metabolites are able to transfer electrons to metal cations, restoring their charge to zero on the nanometer scale. This article, based on publications on the issue under study by authors from the United States of America, Europe and the Middle East, China and India, describes the biosynthesis of nanoparticles of zinc oxide, copper and copper oxide, iron and iron oxide, as well as manganese and manganese oxide using the formation of plant extracts, and data on the use of these metals and their oxides as nanofertilizers and preparations for plant growing are presented. It has been shown that the use of metal nanoparticles and their oxides as fertilizers is more effective than conventional compounds used as fertilizers. This is probably due to the fact that it is easier for nanoparticles to penetrate through the plant membrane, as well as to pass into a form accessible to plants in comparison with conventional analogs. The positive effect of the influence of nanoparticles on plants is expressed in the elongation of the roots and shoots of model plants and an increase in the biomass of seedlings. In addition, the amount of chlorophyll in the leaves increases, and some biochemical processes also change, for example, the amount of antioxidant enzymes increases, which makes it possible to increase the stress resistance of plants.

The purpose of the research is to develop a university system of healthy nutrition, which determines the preservation and strengthening of students’ health by optimizing their nutrition in educational institutions, using an innovative menu and «high cuisine» techniques to organize a high-class student cafe. The used terminology, graphic materials and tools comply with GOST R ISO 21500-2014; UNIDO business planning methodology; methodology for developing EBRD business strategy. The peculiarities of eating behavior of students of Maykop State Technological University and the Adygh State University of the Republic of Adygea have been investigated. Peculiarities of students’ perception of the quality of services of public catering enterprises, an assessment of the structure of expenses for the acquisition of various dishes at catering enterprises, an assessment of the impact of the social status of students on the structure of consumption of products of public catering enterprises, etc. have been considered. Particular attention is paid to identifying nutritional problems existing among students in the region. On the basis of the research the directions for improving healthy nutrition of students have been identified. A university system of healthy nutrition for students has been developed, based on the philosophy of youth taste and preferences: food behavior and reasonable quality: balance in basic substances, with specified beneficial properties, a recommended diet consisting only of healthy food products. The developed system of healthy nutrition will ensure the formation and development of food culture: aesthetic taste for food and its consumption in order to reorient young people from fast and unhealthy nutrition to a healthy diet, using «high cuisine» techniques (careful preparation and careful presentation of dishes / products designed to form a sustainable high motivation for healthy eating, which persists throughout the rest of life, the quality of which can be predicted with predominant indicators. Increasing the efficiency of a public catering enterprise for students will ensure the use of the procurement automation system; takeaway cooking and delivery service; QR-code is a progressive way to get accurate on-line statistics; electronic menu.

INTRODUCTION. Developing novel medicines based on non-pathogenic enterovirus strains exhibiting oncotropic and oncolytic properties represents an up-to-date and safe approach to complex cancer treatment and postoperative metastasis prevention. Safety pharmacology studies are a necessary step in the preclinical development of medicinal products.AIM. The study aimed to investigate the single and repeated-dose general toxicity, local tolerance, safety pharmacology, and pyrogenicity of medicinal products based on non-pathogenic LEV4, LEV7, LEV8, LEV14, and Russo enterovirus strains as part of preclinical safety studies.MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study used medicinal products of highly purified group A, B, and C enteroviruses at a titre of 2×107–5×108 CPD50/mL (CPD50 is a cytopathogenic dose of the virus causing 50% cell lysis) and normal saline as a diluent. The viruses were propagated in Vero cells. The safety study used 220 male and female BALB/c mice, 440 male and female Wistar rats, and 18 male Soviet chinchilla rabbits. The study animals received an intravenous dose of 1×105 or 1×106 CPD50/animal once (single-dose toxicity) or weekly for 90 days (repeated-dose toxicity). Clinical examination, laboratory testing, and necropsy were performed on days 45 and 91 of the experiment. Statistical data processing was performed using Prism 8.0 software (GraphPad Software, Inc., USA).RESULTS. Upon single administration of each of the five enterovirus medicinal products to mice and rats, the authors observed complete survival, upward trends in body weight gain, and no gross or histopathological changes in the brain, spleen, liver, kidneys, lungs, or at the injection site. Upon repeated administration at the study doses, the medicinal products caused no functional changes in the organs and systems. All the studied parameters were within the normal physiological ranges for male and female rats. Histopathological examination revealed no pathological changes or specific cytolytic and/or cytopathic effects. No local irritation was observed. None of the investigational medicinal products showed pyrogenicity.CONCLUSIONS. The obtained preclinical results demonstrate the safety of antineoplastic agents based on live non-pathogenic LEV4, LEV7, LEV8, LEV14, and Russo enteroviruses.

Providing the population with high-quality and safe food products is a priority task for the Russian Federation food industry. One of the methods for solving the problem is creation of alternative, harmless antibacterial compositions using natural components.The aim of the research is to study the antibiotic action of the natural chitosan bacteriostat and its derivatives against Proteus bacteria. The objects of the research are high molecular weight chitosan, low molecular weight chitosan, chitosan succinate, Proteus vulgaris 222 pure culture.The article presents the results of the research of using the solutions of high molecular weight, low molecular weight chitosan and chitosan succinate at a concentration of 1% as an antibacterial agent in relation to a pure laboratory strain of Proteus vulgaris in various concentrations of 1 cm3.The maximum initial concentration of Proteus vulgaris cells in the product has been established, which is suppressed by 1% chitosan solutions. The growth of the inhibitory effect of the studied antibiotic substances with an increase in exposure has been shown.

The first case of COVID-19 was diagnosed in St. Petersburg on March 2, 2020; the period of increase in the incidence lasted for 10 weeks, the maximum rates were recorded in mid-May, and subsequently there was a statistically significant decrease in the incidence.Objective: to determine the level and structure of community immunity to SARS-CoV-2 among the population of St. Petersburg during the period of intensive spread of COVID-19.Materials and methods. Selection of volunteers for the study was carried out through interviewing and randomization. The exclusion criterion was active COVID-19 infection at the time of the survey. 2713 people aged 1 to 70 years and above were examined for the presence of specific antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. Antibodies were detected by enzyme immunoassay.Results and discussion. Studies have shown that in St. Petersburg, in the active phase of COVID-19 epidemic, there was a moderate seroprevalence to SARS-CoV-2, which amounted to 26 %, against the background of a high frequency (84.5 %) of asymptomatic infection in seropositive individuals who did not have a history of COVID-19 disease, positive PCR result and ARI symptoms on the day of examination. The maximum indicators of herd immunity were established in children 1–6 years old (31.1 %), 7–13 years old (37.7 %) and people over 70 years old (30.4 %). Differences in the level of seroprevalence in the age groups of 18–49 years are statistically significant. The highest level of seroprevalence was found among the unemployed (29.7 %), healthcare workers (27.1 %), education sector (26.4 %) and business sector personnel (25 %). In convalescents, COVID-19 antibodies are produced in 75 % of cases. In individuals with positive result of PCR analysis carried out earlier, antibodies are detected in 70 % of the cases. The results of the study of herd immunity to SARS-CoV-2 are essential to forecast the development of the epidemiological situation, as well as to plan measures for specific and non-specific prevention of COVID-19.

The first case of COVID-19 was registered in the Leningrad Region on March 13, 2020. The period of increasing intensity of the epidemic process lasted 8 weeks. One month after reaching the maximum incidence rate, a study was organized to determine seroprevalence to COVID-19 among the population of the Region.Objective of the study was to determine the level and structure of community immunity to SARS-CoV-2 virus in the population of the Leningrad Region in the period of intensive COVID-19 transmission.Materials and methods. The work was carried out within the framework of the Rospotrebnadzor project on assessment of community immunity to the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the population of the Russian Federation. The content of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 was determined applying ELISA using a kit for the analysis of human serum or blood plasma for the presence of specific IgG to the nucleocapsid of the SARS-CoV-2 virus , manufactured by the State Scientific Center of Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology (Obolensk) in accordance with the instructions for use.Results and discussion. The study has showed that the herd immunity of the population of the Leningrad Region was 20.7 %. The maximum level has been established in children 1–6 years old (42.3 %) and people over 70 years old (29.0 %). The highest level of seropositivity, except for children and older people, was found among the unemployed (25.1 %). The lowest level of seroprevalence was detected in civil servants (12.8 %) and military personnel (16.7 %). It has been shown that the risk of infection increases by 1.5 times in case of contacts with COVID-19 patients. After exposure to COVID-19 virus, antibodies are produced in 82.1 % of the cases. In individuals with a positive PCR test result obtained earlier, antibodies are detected in 82.8 % of cases. The share of asymptomatic forms among seropositive residents of the Leningrad Region was 86.9 %. The results of assessing the herd immunity to SARS-CoV-2 in the population of the Leningrad Region indicate that during the period of intensive COVID-19 transmission, an average level of seroprevalence was formed. A significant proportion of asymptomatic forms of infection characterizes the high intensity of the latently developing epidemic process. The results obtained should be taken into account when organizing preventive measures, including vaccination, and predicting morbidity rates.

The cytokine system is a large group of humoral factors produced by immune cells and involved in the pathogenesis of most human diseases. To assess the significance of changes in cytokines/chemokines under pathological conditions, appropriate reference values are required for healthy people. As known from existing literature, most studies of various cytokine/chemokine concentrations in blood plasma were performed in healthy subjects from Western Europe and North America. Certain inter-population differences are known, with respect to production of distinct cytokines in different racial and national groups. Only single studies concern normal levels of distinct cytokines in blood plasma of healthy African residents. The purpose of this study was to determine the blood plasma cytokine profile in healthy residents of the Republic of Guinea (RG), and to establish normal cytokine values.We have examined 24 healthy RG residents and 23 residents of St. Petersburg. Concentrations of 40 cytokines/chemokines were determined in blood plasma. The study was performed using multiplex analysis by xMAP technology.The following cytokine/chemokine levels were significantly increased in the blood plasma of the RG residents: IFNγ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNFα, CCL1/I-309, CCL3/MIP-1α, CCL7/MCP-3, CCL17/ TARC, CCL19/MIP-3β, CCL20/MIP-3α, CCL21/6Ckine, CXCL2/Gro-β, CXCL5/ENA-78, CXCL6/ GCP-2, CXCL9/MiG, CX3CL1/Fractalkine (р < 0.001). For the CCL8/MCP-2, CCL22/MDC, CXCL1/ Gro-α and CXCL12/SDF-1α+β chemokines a trend for increased concentration was revealed, in comparison with residents of St. Petersburg (р < 0.05). Moreover, the levels of CCL23/MPIF-1 and MIF were significantly lower (р < 0.0001) in the RG residents. There was a tendency for decreased levels (р < 0.05) for CCL2/MCP-1 and CCL24/Eotaxin-2 chemokines in blood plasma taken from RG residents. There were no differences in levels of cytokines/chemokines for the studied groups: GM-CSF, IL-1β, IL-16, CCL11/Eotaxin, CCL13/MCP-4, CCL15/Leukotactin-1, CCL25/TECK, CCL26/Eotaxin-3, CCL27/CTACK, CXCL8/IL-8, CXCL10/IP-10, CXCL11/I-TAC, CXCL13/BCA, and CXCL16/SCYB16. Hence, this study has presented for the first time the normal limits for a wide range of cytokines/chemokines in blood plasma of the African inhabitants. Interpopulation differences were found, including those for constitutive chemokines. Different levels of CCL19/ MIP-3β and CCL21/6Ckine chemokines (the CCR7 receptor ligands) for the two populations may indirectly indicate the physiological features of T-cell maturation. Increased levels of CXCR2 receptor ligands in the blood plasma of Guineans, i.e., CXCL2/Gro-β, CXCL5/ENA-78 and CXCL6/GCP-2, may be due to additional function of these chemokines as ligands for atypical DARC chemokine receptor, which neutralizes chemokines from the blood flow, whereas 95% of West Africans have mutations in the DARC gene and do not express this receptor. Increased levels of proinflammatory IL-6 and TNFα cytokines, and chemokine CCL20/MIP-3α in blood plasma from RG residents may suggest inflammatory processes in the liver, since 100% of the examined Guineans had antibodies against the hepatitis A virus, 48% had antibodies to hepatitis B virus (anti-HBs), and 12% had antibodies against hepatitis C virus. In summary, the differences in cytokine/chemokine level may be related to specific environment, circulation of infectious diseases, composition of intestinal, skin and mucosal microbiota, as well as distinct genetic features.

Molecular and biochemical markers are used to analyze the intraspecific genetic diversity of crops. Prolamincoding loci are highly effective for assessing this indicator. On the basis of the Laboratory of Varietal Seed Identification of the State Agrarian University of the Northern Trans-Urals, 18 varieties of common oat included in the State Register of Selection Achievements in the Tyumen Region from the 1930s to 2019 were studied by electrophoresis in 2018–2019. The aim of the work was to study the dynamics of the genetic diversity of oat va rieties at avenin-coding loci. For the analysis, 100 grains of each variety were used. Electrophoresis was carried out in vertical plates of 13.2 % polyacrylamide gel at a constant vol tage of 500 V for 4.0–4.5 h. It was found that 44.4 % of the varieties are heterogeneous, each consisting of two biotypes. For three loci, 20 alleles were identified, 10 of which were detected for the first time. The allele frequency of avenin-coding loci varied with time. In the process of variety exchange, alleles that are characteristic of varieties of non-Russian origin were replaced by alleles present in domestic varieties and then in the varieties developed by local breeding institutions. The following alleles had the highest frequency in Tyumen varieties: Avn A4(50.0 %), A2(25.0 %), Avn B4(50.0 %), Bnew6(37.5 %), Avn C1(37.5 %), C2 and C5(25.0 %). These alleles are of great value as markers of agronomically and adaptively important characters for the region in question. The amount of genetic diversity of oats varied with time from 0.33 in 1929–1950 to up to 0.75 in 2019. The high value of genetic diversity in modern breeding varieties of the Scientific Research Institute of Agriculture of the Northern Trans-Urals and an increase in this indicator over the past 20 years are associated with the use of genetically heterogeneous source material in the breeding process. This allowed obtaining varieties with high adaptive potentials in the natural climatic conditions of the region.

Hepatitis B is an infectious viral disease in which damage or destruction of liver tissue occurs, and which can turn into a chronic form. In chronic hepatitis B (CHB), hepatocytes are replaced by connective tissue as they die, resulting in fibrosis, and then cirrhosis of the liver. Early diagnosis of liver fibrosis is an urgent task in the development of CHB. Already at this stage of the disease, the immune system is activated, which plays a leading role in liver damage in CHB. The main regulators of immune processes are cytokines, which mediate intercellular interactions. A separate group of cytokines are chemokines — proteins of cell migration. In CHB, they are responsible for infiltration of liver tissue by activated white blood cells. Cytokines and chemokines are active participants in fibrogenesis, so they can serve as biomarkers for the development of liver fibrosis, including in the early stages. The purpose of this study was to analyze the content of certain cytokines/chemokines in the peripheral blood of patients with CHB in order to search for potential biomarkers of the initial stages of liver fibrosis. The study included 30 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CHB with stages of liver fibrosis F0-F1 on the Metavir scale, 36 patients with a diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C (F0-F1) and 37 conditionally healthy individuals as a control group. Concentrations of the following cytokines/chemokines were determined: IFNγ, TNFα, CCL2/MCP-1, CCL8/MCP-2, CCL20/MIP-3α, CXCL9/MIG, CXCL10/IP-10, CXCL11/I-TAC by multiplex analysis using xMAP technology (Luminex, USA). As a result of the study, it was found that in patients with CHB, the plasma content of cytokine TNFα and chemokines CCL2/MCP-1, CXCL9/MIG and CXCL10/IP-10 was increased, and the chemokine CCL8/MCP-2 was reduced, which indicates the possibility of using these cytokines/chemokines as biomarkers of liver damage in CHB. In the examined group of patients with CHB, there was no dependence of the concentrations of cytokines and chemokines in the blood plasma on the viral load, which may be explained by its low level. For plasma cytokines in patients with CHB, correlations were found between TNFα and CCL2/MCP-1 and CCL8/MCP-2 chemokines , which was not observed in the control group. At the same time, in the control group, a correlation was found between the content of TNFα and the chemokine CXCL9/MIG, which was not detected in the group of patients. For both groups, a correlation was found between the content of CXCL9/MIG and CXCL10/IP-10 chemokines. Based on the study data, an algorithm has been developed that allows us to establish chronic hepatitis B or chronic hepatitis C as the cause of the initial form of fibrosis F0-F1 in terms of the content of cytokines IFNγ, CCL2/MCP-1 and CCL8/MCP-2 in blood plasma with a diagnostic efficiency of 89.4%.

Background. Tumors of stroma of the sex cord include a family of tumors that are diverse in structure and biological characteristics, including hormone-active ovarian tumors, such as granulosa cell tumor (GCT) of the ovary and a tumor from Sertoli–Leydig cells. For these types of tumors, of particular importance is the analysis of biochemical markers, among which the most promising is inhibin B.The objective of the study. Comparative analysis of inhibin B levels in the blood serum of patients with stromal cell tumors and other types malignancies.Materials and methods. 64 patients with primary ovarian tumors were examined: 31 – GCT of the ovary, 16 – tumors from Sertoli–Leydig cells, 17 – adenocarcinomas. Comparison group – 20 patients with malignant tumors of other localizations, control – 74 healthy women and 37 patients with benign ovarian tumors. Inhibin B was determined in blood serum using the standardized Inhibin B Gen II ELISA (Beckman Coulter, USA) immunoassay.Results. The analysis of inhibin B levels in last days of the luteal phase, show an increase of marker level in patients with GCT and tumors from Sertoli–Leydig cells, while in ovarian adenocarcinomas and malignant tumors of other locations inhibin B secretion doesn’t differ from the control. The sensitivity of inhibin B in diagnostics of GCT was 93.5 %, in tumor from Sertoli–Leydig cells – 81.3 % with specificity – 100 %.Conclusion. Inhibin B is an effective biomarker of GCT and ovarian tumors from Sertoli–Leydig cells, which results must be interpreted according the functional state of the ovaries.

In recent years, there has been a steady increase in the number of infections specific to the perinatal period, wth 60% of the perinatal infections in St. Petersburg being intra-amniotic infections (IAI) of the fetus.The aim of the study is to identify the frequency and risk factors of Intra-amniotic infection of fetus, not elsewhere classified (ICD-10 code P39.2).Materials and methods. The study, conducted in a maternity hospital in St. Petersburg, included 240 newborns wth clinically established diagnoses from the P39 group «Other infections specific to the perinatal period».Results of the study. A definition of the case of IAI of the fetus, not elsewhere classified (ICD-10 code P39.2), was proposed - the presence of IAI signs in the histological study of the placenta and the presence of a systemic inflammatory response in a newborn child. Using the definition of a confirmed case the frequency of fetal IAI was 0.42 per 100 children live-born, which is 3.5 times lower than the frequency of clinically determined diagnoses. Risk factors for the confirmed case were: asymptomatic bacteriuria, pyelonephritis, colpitis, tonsilltis, cervical erosion in the history of cervical anamnesis, cardiovascular diseases in the mother.Conclusion. In the course of epidemiological surveillance of intra-amniotic infection of the fetus, it is necessary to use the definition of the case with further stratification of data on the newborn's body weight at birth. In order to reduce the incidence of this pathology, it is necessary to develop programs aimed at identifying and eliminating factors that increase the risk of maternal and fetal IAI.

The article deals with current issues of reliability, quality and availability of power. Introduction assessment grid companies in terms of frequency and duration of outages for stimulating increasing the reliability of electricity supply. Using the integral index of the quality of energy service the final consumers. Accounting for tariff regulation of electricity networks the service reliability and quality indicators of consumers. Significant reduction of time, cost and approval procedures for grid connection to the electrical network, especially for the small and medium-sized businesses. To work on the entry in the top-20 on the grid connection.

The work presents data on forty-one patients with chronic hepatitis C (HCV, genotype 1), at different liver fibrosis stages. The studies were performed in the course of interferon-containing treatment regimens, i.e., pegylated interferon combined with ribavirin and pegylated interferon; ribavirin together with NS3/4A inhibitor of HCV serine protease. Concentrations of cytokines/chemokines (TNFα, CCL2/MCP-1, CCL20/MIP-3α, CXCL9/MIG, CXCL10/IP-10, CXCL11/ITAC) were measured in blood plasma samples, using xMAP multiplex analysis. Flow cytometry studies were also performed in order to reveal cells with CCR6 and CXCR3 receptors in lymphocyte populations. The obtained results were analyzed using a statistical program package R. Results: 36 out of 41 patients achieved virological response, while 5 patients did not respond to the therapy. The responders were split into two groups, as follows: (1) liver fibrosis-free; (2) patients with fibrosis stages 1, 2 and 3. In the group of fibrosis-free patients, the decrease of CXCL11/ITAC concentration and the increase of TNFαwere observed, as well as increase of CTL CXCR3+ content by the 12th week of therapy and an increase of NK CXCR3+ by the end of treatment. In addition, this group exhibited a decrease in the CXCR3+ B lymphocyte contents at this timepoint. Concentrations of CCL2/MCP-1 during treatment were increased in the patients with different stages of liver fibrosis, as compared to baseline. By the end of therapy, an increase in the relative content of NK CXCR3+and TNK CCR6+ was also detected. The study confirmed a potential role of cytokines/chemokines TNFα, CCL2/MCP-1 and CXCL11/ITAC in activation of the cell-mediated immunity and elimination of the hepatitis C virus from the body. The results indicate that activation of T cellmediated immunity in both groups of the patients and reduction of B cells with CXCR3 receptor in the patients of first group is a positive prognostic factor showing efficiency of interferon therapy. Two of studied cytokines/ chemokines (TNFαand CCL20/MIP3α) differed in the groups of responders and non-responders at the start of therapy. Statistical evaluation of pre-treatment results has shown a tendency for differing concentration of TNFα, and CCL20/MIP3αamounts were significantly different for the patients of these groups. The plasma concentrations of CCL20/MIP3αin non-responders were > 4-fold higher than in responders to the therapy. Hence, the present study allowed us to propose the chemokine CCL20/MIP3α as a potential predictor of treatment outcomes in HCV infection.

The problems of the education digitalization, using the example of State budget educational institutions in Moscow has investigated. The analysis of the problems and their assessments, using the author's analysis of the institutions have identified the problem of poor IT support. The organizational structure of the Unified information support center for general education complexes has proposed. The functions of all the most significant divisions have defined, the functions between specialists in the Center, in the field and IT outsourcing have distributed. This center will allow to provide effective IT-support, to reduce the costs for performing management tasks by aggregating IT functions into a single system, to reduce the cost of technical support for IT infrastructure through the organization of IT outsourcing services.

The problem of organization of information techologies (IT) outsourcing for gen-eral education complexes in Moscow is considered. As a result of research into public pro-curement of IT outsourcing services for general education complexes a low level of technical support of the IT infrastructure by IT outsourcing companies and consequently frequent ear-ly termination of the concluded contracts of general education complexes with IT companies has been revealed. The method of a two-stage open tender for public procurement of IT out-sourcing services was developed and criteria (qualication requirements) of the choice of an IT company for public procurement that should improve the quality of services provided and reduce the percentage of prematurely terminated contracts in the future, -has been suggested.

Background. In the environments of Western Siberia, oat is one of the main cultivated cereals. Six varieties of common oat are included in the State Register for Tyumen Province: 'Perona', 'Megion', 'Tyumensky Golozerny', 'Talisman', 'Otrada' and 'Foma'. Currently, not only traditional methods of breeding are used for the development of new cultivars of intensive type in Tyumen Province, but also biochemical markers - prolamins. The aim of the research was to study the component composition of avenins and allelic status of avenin-coding loci in common oat varieties cultivated in Tyumen Province as well as to identify alleles specific to the region.Materials and methods. For laboratory analysis we used 100 kernels selected at random from each of the oat varieties. Electrophoretic separation of avenin was carried out on vertical plates of polyacrylamide gel.Results and conclusion. The varieties 'Perona', 'Talisman', 'Foma' and 'Tyumensky Golozerny' were found to be homogeneous in their avenin component composition, while 'Megion' and 'Otrada' included two biotypes with a 2:1 ratio. Their heterogeneity is determined by the presence of two allelic variants controlled by the Avn A locus. Clustering by the UPGMA method showed that the studied varieties were divided into two clusters. The first cluster included 'Tyumensky Golozerny' and 'Megion', while the second harbored 'Perona', 'Talisman', 'Otrada' and 'Foma'. The genetic distance between the varieties 'Talisman' and 'Perona' was zero, and their avenin formulas coincided: Avn A4 B4 C2. The identity of their storage protein spectra is due to the fact that these allelic variants of prolamin component blocks are linked to valuable economic and adaptive features. Blocks of the components А4, В4, С1 and С2 prevail in the frequency of occurrence in the spectra of the investigated varieties. These blocks can act as markers of gene associations with adaptive significance and economic value. Thus, when performing breeding work in Tyumen Province, it is necessary to pay attention to oat varieties whose prolamin spectra contain the aforementioned blocks of avenin components.

Power consumption is one of the most important indicators of the region’s development. For the forecast of power consumption, the trend methods - econometric and normative - is usually used. Each of the methods has its drawbacks and peculiarities. In the article the forecast of power consumption of the economy and population of the Altai Territory is calculated by various methods. The most significant factors and their influence on the region’s energy consumption are determined: gross regional product, investment volume and industrial production index, population wages, electricity tariffs. A high degree of convergence of the results of forecasts is determined.

The carried-out analysis showed that decrease in competitiveness of the centralized heat supply in Russia happened due to reduction of need for couple of industrial bodies, the increased wear, and imperfection of mechanisms of division of expenses between the electric power and heat at their cogeneration. In article it is noted that growth of number of participants and lack of uniform technical and investment policy of various sources of heat supply created an opportunity and need of formation of the local competitive markets of heat. The author proves that establishment of limit of a tariff for thermal energy with orientation to «an alternative boiler room» will promote overestimate of tariffs in the majority of regions of the country and discredits the idea of the competitive market of heat.

Influenza and ARVI - the main nosological form in structure of all infectious diseases. Influenza is especially dangerous to pregnant women. Purpose: to estimate commitment of pregnant women and health workers to vaccination against influenza. Materials and methods: form No. 5, form of the statistical account No. 1 - influenza the section 1, information from the official site of Federal State Budgetary Institution Scientific Research Institute of influenza of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation; materials of various conferences and the congresses on a influenza problem, information and analytical reference of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. There were asked 1126 pregnant women on various durations of gestation and 447 health workers in various territories of the Russian Federation. Statistical processing was carried out with use of the Microsoft Excel 2010 and IBM SPSS Statistics 20.0 programs. Results and discussion: Among the interviewed pregnant women planned or were already vaccinated against influenza only 8% of women. The most frequent causes of failure from vaccination against influenza during pregnancy: doubt in safety (41.8%), ignorance about possibilities of vaccination (21,1%), lack of need for vaccination (18,7%). Only 25% of respondents knew about entering vaccination against influenza during pregnancy into a national calendar. At the same time only in 15% of health workers suggested pregnant women to be vaccinated from influenza. 73% of the interviewed health workers didn't recommend vaccination against influenza to pregnant women because they consider undesirable an intervention in immunity of the pregnant woman, 33% doubt in safety of vaccination, 13% don't know about a possibility of vaccination of pregnant women at all, 6% have personal negative experience of vaccination, and 4% don't see need for vaccination from influenza. Conclusion: the received materials showed need of development of knowledge at health workers of a vaccinal prevention of infectious diseases, including also vaccination against influenza during pregnancy, and also to carry out broad and active information work with the population, attracting mass media.

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) represents a significant public health concern. In the majority of cases, the infection progresses to a chronic form, which is characterised by the development of fibrosis and cirrhosis of the liver. A plethora of cytokines and chemokines are generated as a consequence of inflammatory processes within the liver. These can exert a dual effect, both protective and damaging, particularly in relation to the death of hepatocytes and the progression of liver fibrosis. Furthermore, a number of growth factors have been identified as playing a role in the pathogenesis of CHC. The objective of the study was a comprehensive evaluation of a wide range of cytokines, chemokines and growth factors in the blood plasma of patients with CHC at varying stages of liver fibrosis. The study cohort comprised 63 patients diagnosed with CHC, who were divided into three groups according to the stage of liver fibrosis. The control group comprised healthy individuals (n=32). Concentrations of the following cytokines were determined in plasma: Interleukins and some cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-1RA, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-9, IL-10, IL-12 (p40), IL-12 (p70), IL-13, IL-15, IL-17A, IL-17-E/IL-25, IL-17F, IL-18, IL-27, IFNα, IFNγ, TNFα, TNFβ); chemokines (CCL2/MCP-1, CCL3/MIP-1α, CCL4/MIP-1β, CCL7/MCP-3, CCL11/Eotaxin, CCL22/MDC, CXCL1/GROα, CXCL8/IL-8, CXCL9/MIG, CXCL10/IP-10, CX3CL1/Fractalkine) and growth factors (EGF, FGF-2, Flt-3L, G-CSF, M-CSF, PDGF-AA, PDGF-AB/BB, TGFα, VEGF-A) by multiplex analysis based on xMAP technology. Nonparametric statistics methods were used for statistical analysis. As a result of the study, increased concentrations of cytokines IL-12 (p40), IL-15, IL-17E/IL-25, IL-27, IFNγ, TNFα, chemokines CXCL9/MIG and CXCL-10/IP-10 and growth factors FGF-2 and M-CSF were found at all stages of liver fibrosis. Elevated concentrations of cytokines IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-9, IL-10, IL-17F, IFNα, TNFβ, chemokines CCL2/MCP-1, CCL11/Eotaxin, CCL22/MDC and growth factors G-CSF, TGFα, Flt-3L were found in severe liver fibrosis/cirrhosis. Correlation analysis revealed a relationship of high significance between the severity of liver fibrosis and the content of cytokines IL-6, IFNγ, TNFα, IL-7, chemokines CCL2/MCP-1, CCL11/Eotaxin, CXCL9/MIG, CXCL10/IP-10, CXCL1/GROα, growth factors TGFα, PDGF-AA, PDGF-AB/BB. Thus, a certain profile of cytokines characteristic for CHC was revealed, cytokines, chemokines and growth factors significant for liver fibrosis in CHC were found.

The article deals with current issues of reliability, quality and availability of power. Introduction assessment grid companies in terms of frequency and duration of outages for stimulating increasing the reliability of electricity supply. Using the integral index of the quality of energy service the final consumers. Accounting for tariff regulation of electricity networks the service reliability and quality indicators of consumers. Significant reduction of time, cost and approval procedures for grid connection to the electrical network, especially for the small and medium-sized businesses. To work on the entry in the top-20 on the grid connection.

The aim of our research was to estimate the relationship of levels testosterone, estradiol and levels of homocysteine and endothelin-1 at young women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods. We examined 80 women (age 26.3±0.2 years, body mass index 23.3±0.9 kg/m2). Patients complained of primary infertility, menstrual dysfunction, hirsutism, acne. The control group: 20 healthy women. For the determination of the hormonal status, basal levels luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), sex-hormone binding globulin, antiMullerian hormone (AMH), homocysteine (Hcy), endothelin-1 were studied in serum. Monitoring of folliculogenesis was carried out. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using the statistical package settlement Microsoft Excel and Statistica 6.0. Results. On the basis of the increase of T, AMH, coefficient of LH/FSH, ovarian volume, number of antral follicles and the decrease of level of E2 was set diagnosis of PCOS. Hyperhomocysteinemia was found at 52.5% and the increase of endothelin-1 at 80% patients. The high levels of endothelin-1 was found significantly more frequent in the group women with hyperhomocysteinemia. There is a direct correlation between endothelin-1, testosterone-estradiol ratio and negative correlation with the level of estradiol at women with PCOS. Conclusions. The young patients with PCOS have a higher risk development of hyperhomocysteinemia, which combined with hyperandrogenemia and hypoestrogenemia leads to increased level of endothelin-1.

The comparative assessment of the degree of solonetzic processes was conducted for the soils of solonetzic complexes in forest steppe and dry steppe zones. We analized virgin solonetzes and solonetzes affected by the agrogenic transformation with different content of exchangeable sodium and with different hydromorphism degree from Kostanai (Kazakhstan Republic), Astrakhan, Voronezh, Volgograd, Omsk, and Novosibirsk regions. We investigated meliorated solonetzes as with completely destructed profile, and with partically preserved solonetzic layer. For that purposes we used special B- grade, suggested by N.B. Khitrov. It is shown that solonetzic process is poorly manifested in virgin automorphic soils of dry steppe zone. The physical and chemical properties which are created after melioration do not encourage the restoration of solonetzic process. The solonetzic process in meadow-steppe solonetzes of dry steppe and, especially, forest steppe zones is active at the present moment. The melioration improves the properties of these soils, but it is insufficient for the destruction of physical and chemical conditions favourable for restoration of solonetzic process. The difference in post-meliorative development of solonetzes is stipulated by the initial degree of manifestation of solonetzic process in virgin soils at the present.

In this article the authors review the using of graphical passwords for authentication. The main advantage of this authentication is the users friendly approach. However, with multiple browsing of the logon session, the attacker can see and understand the password. To avoid this drawback, the authors recommend to use dynamic graphical passwords. On three examples of dynamic graphical authentication article demonstrates how with user-friendly, graphical password can be stable.

Aim. Comparative typing of Leptospira spp. strain collection based on analysis of 16S RNA fragment. Materials and methods. 2 pairs of primers were used for PCR, that jointly flank 1423 b.p. sized fragment. Sequences of Leptospira spp. strain 16S rRNA, presented in the international database, were used for phylogenetic analysis. Results. A high similarity, including interspecies, of the 16S fragment in Leptospira spp. strains was shown independently of the source, serovar and serogroup. Heterogeneity ofthe primary matrix, spontaneous mutations of hotspots and erroneous nucleotide couplings, characteristic for 16S sequence of pathogenic Leptospira spp. strains, are discussed. Molecular-genetic characteristic of certain reference Leptospira spp. strains by 16S sequence is obtained. Conclusion. Results of the studies give evidence on expedience of introduction into clinical practice of identification of Leptospira spp. by 16S sequence directly from the clinical material, that would allow to significantly reduce identification time, dismiss complex type-specific sera and other labor-intensive methods.