Biota. Human. Technology

QUANTUM CHEMICAL DESCRIPTORS AND BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF 2-AMINO-4-ARYL-1,3-OXAZOLES

2024-11-30T10:59:29+02:00

Purpose of the work. To calculate quantum chemical descriptors for 2-amino-4-aryl-1,3-oxazole derivatives, prediction of possible protein targets, and establishment of correlational dependencies of the type "biological activity - quantum-chemical descriptor".

Methodology. The study was conducted using ChemOffice software packages (PerkinElmer Informatics Inc, 2018), ACDLabs (Advanced Chemistry Development Inc.), online resources Molinspiration Cheminformatics (Slovensky Grob, Slovakia https://molinspiration.com/cgi/properties), OSIRIS Property Explorer (Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Switzerland Molecular Properties Prediction, https://www.organic-chemistry.org/prog/peo/), SwissTargetPrediction (SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, http://www. swisstargetprediction.ch/), SuperPred (Structural Bioinformatics Group, Institute of Physiology Charité-University Medicine, Berlin, https://prediction.charite.de/subpages/target_prediction.php), ProTox (Structural Bioinformatics Group, Institute of Physiology Charité-University Medicine, Berlin https://tox.charite.de/protox3). Microsoft Excel was used to perform correlation and regression analyses in the coordinates of binding probability - quantum chemical descriptors.

Scientific novelty. Were evaluated the pharmacological activity of new 2-amino-4-aryl-1,3-oxazole derivatives and identified correlations between the probability of their effectiveness and the quantum chemical parameters of the molecules.

Conclusions. Several correlations have been established for the probable ligands, focusing on those with the highest binding probability as well as various quantum chemical descriptors, including the charges on oxygen and nitrogen atoms and the energies of the highest occupied and lowest vacant molecular orbitals. The results obtained are valuable for making more informed predictions about the biological activity of new 2-amino-4-aryl-1,3-oxazole derivatives and for guiding the synthesis of promising dosage forms.

DRINKING WATER OF CHERNIGIV AND ITS QUALITY

2025-01-07T16:00:47+02:00

Purpose of the work. To establish the indicators of drinking water quality (total hardness, bicarbonate alkalinity, content of calcium ions, magnesium ions, chloride ions, ammonium ions, ions Fe²⁺and Fe³⁺, acidity (pH) of the centralized water supply network in Chernihiv. The results were then compared with the normative values by DSTU ISO 6059-2003.

Tested water samples were collected at four control points which are part of different aquifer stations that draw water from the Lower Cretaceous and Buchakian horizons. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the current state of water quality in specific sections of the Chernihiv water supply network.

Methodology. Water samples were collected from the city's water supply systems by DSTU ISO 5667-4-2003. The indicators analyzed included total hardness, bicarbonate alkalinity, chloride ion content, ammonium ion content, ions Fe²⁺and Fe³⁺content, pH levels. These indicators were assessed using standard methods of chemical and physicochemical (photocolorimetry, potentiometry) analysis.

The scientific novelty of this research lies in the comparative analysis of the chemical and physicochemical parameters of water samples collected from control points within different sections of the municipal water supply network. This network sources its water from 1^st, 3^rd and 5^thwater-bearing stations that draw from the Lower Cretaceous and Buchaksky aquifers.

Conclusions: During a comparative analysis of the chemical and physicochemical parameters of water samples taken from various control points of the municipal water supply network in Chernihiv, that draw from the Lower Cretaceous and Buchaksky aquifers it was found that the standard values for ions Fe²⁺and Fe³⁺ and ammonium ion concentrations were exceeded. These samples were specifically from the water pumping station “Bobrovytsia”.

ANALYSIS OF MODERN CORROSION RATE MEASUREMENT METHODS

2025-02-21T12:55:16+02:00

In the modern world, with the rapid development of infrastructure, corrosion protection has become particularly important. The contemporary world relies on complex engineering structures such as bridges, buildings, vehicles, pipelines, and power plants, which are predominantly made of metals. These structures are exposed to aggressive environmental factors that may lead to their destruction, significant economic losses, and potential environmental damage. Determining the corrosion rate is a key task in implementing effective protection strategies and extending the service life of metallic structures.

Purpose: To investigate modern methods for determining the corrosion rate of metallic materials and to analyze scientific publications dedicated to the practical application of these methods in monitoring and controlling the condition of structures. In particular, attention is focused on approaches that enable the prompt acquisition of accurate data on the intensity of corrosion processes, which is essential for improving the reliability and safety of infrastructure facilities.

Methodology: Field and accelerated methods for determining corrosion rates were examined. Field methods included gravimetric techniques, while accelerated methods comprised gravimetry under accelerated conditions and electrochemical approaches. Particular attention was paid to the polarization resistance method, which allows for the rapid assessment of the corrosive activity of the environment. In addition, cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, and chronopotentiometry were examined as complementary polarization methods. The use of these methods promotes the development of more effective strategies to protect metals from corrosive effects.

Scientific Novelty: Modern methods of determining the corrosion rate were systematized, taking into account their accuracy, speed of data acquisition, and suitability for real operating conditions. The advantages of the polarization resistance method were highlighted as a key means for rapid and reliable monitoring of corrosion processes. Literature analysis made it possible to summarize the experience of applying different approaches in industry and research, to identify their advantages and disadvantages, and to formulate recommendations for further improvement of the techniques.

Conclusions: Field methods, such as gravimetry, closely reflect real corrosion conditions but require prolonged exposure times, which may be impractical for rapid investigations. Accelerated methods allow for quick results, but may sometimes partially deviate from the actual picture of corrosion processes. Electrochemistry, particularly the polarization resistance method and other polarization approaches, provides an accurate and in-depth understanding of corrosion mechanisms, allowing the detection and analysis of changes related to both the material and the environment. Further combination of field and accelerated methods, as well as the development of electrochemical techniques, will enhance the effectiveness of structural condition control and improve protection strategies under real operating conditions.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN ARTIFICIAL BLOOD

2025-02-14T20:04:33+02:00

Purpose: The aim of this study is to present the current state of research on artificial blood, its potential clinical applications and future directions for development. The shortage of blood in blood banks and the increasing demand for transfusions is a major challenge for modern medicine. As a result, scientists worldwide are working to develop effective blood substitutes that could act as oxygen carriers in the body and reduce dependence on traditional donors. This study discusses various strategies for synthesising artificial blood, taking into account advances in biotechnology, biomedical engineering and nanotechnology. Particular emphasis is placed on research into haemoglobin carriers and synthetic erythrocytes.

Materials and methods. To obtain reliable and comprehensive information on the development of blood substitutes, a review of the available scientific literature was conducted, including databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Sources analysed included scientific articles, clinical trial reports, systematic reviews and reports on the latest technologies in biomedical engineering. The study discusses different types of red blood cell substitutes, focusing on haemoglobin isolated from different sources (e.g. recombinant haemoglobin, invertebrate haemoglobin), synthetic microparticles that mimic erythrocytes, and modern oxygen carriers. Special attention has been given to the results of clinical trials that provide information on the safety, efficacy and potential limitations of these solutions.

Scientific novelty. This article makes a significant contribution to the knowledge of artificial blood by providing a comprehensive overview of its potential and the challenges associated with its clinical application. Key issues such as the efficacy of blood substitutes compared to natural human blood, their bioavailability, stability and potential side effects are highlighted. It also looks at production costs and the acceptance of such products by the medical community and patients. The study also highlights the need for further research and the development of innovative technologies that could improve the availability and safety of artificial blood. Potential future research directions are discussed, including the use of nanotechnology, bioengineering and biomaterials to develop more efficient and safer blood substitutes.

Conclusions. The development of artificial red blood cell substitutes could be a breakthrough in emergency medicine and in situations where traditional transfusions are impossible or difficult to perform (e.g., in combat situations, natural disasters, or locations with limited blood supply). Despite years of research and technological advances, many blood substitutes face challenges related to limited stability, potential toxicity and the ability to effectively transport oxygen. Existing products that have undergone clinical trials show promising properties, but are still far from fully replacing natural blood. Research suggests that further work to improve artificial blood should focus on improving safety, extending shelf life and optimising production costs. The outlook in this field is promising, and future advances could revolutionise the treatment of patients requiring blood transfusions and contribute to improved access to healthcare worldwide.

PHYTOTHERAPEUTIC USE OF GINGER (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE)

2025-02-06T16:08:09+02:00

For many people, ginger has become not only a popular spice in cooking, but also a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle. Ginger contains many biologically active compounds that give it many beneficial properties. Recent studies confirm its potential in fighting various diseases and improving health. Its use can help maintain optimal body function and prevent the development of various diseases.

Purpose: The aim of this paper was to systematise scientific information on the therapeutic properties of ginger in the fight against various contemporary diseases, such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic kidney disease. We analysed the collected literature to systematise information on the pharmacological properties of ginger, clinical trials on its efficacy in different conditions, mechanisms of action, methods of use and possible side effects.

Materials and methods. To prepare the review, we used scientific literature available in PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and other academic resources. The search terms were ”inger”, “Zingiber officinale”, “phytotherapy”, “pharmacological properties”, “clinical trials”, “antioxidants”, “anti-inflammatory properties”. The review included articles, reviews, clinical trials, meta-analyses and systematic reviews that investigated the phytotherapeutic use of ginger in various aspects of human health. Publications available in English and published in the last 25 years were included. The information obtained was systematised, described and analysed to produce a review material that reflects the current state of research on the phytotherapeutic use of ginger.

Scientific novelty. The article reviews the latest scientific research and clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of ginger in the treatment of various diseases and health maintenance, including new discoveries about its mechanisms of action, clinical trials in humans and animals, and meta-analyses of previous studies. The article presents the mechanisms of action of ginger and its compounds, which explain the pharmacological activity of this plant and include the study of its interaction with cells and organs of the body, biochemical reactions and signalling pathways. Modern methods of using ginger in phytotherapy and in the practice of a healthy lifestyle are also considered, particularly in the treatment of metabolic syndrome (obesity or overweight, insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidaemia).

Conclusions. This article updates and expands the scientific knowledge on the phytotherapeutic use of ginger, opening new perspectives for its use and identifying its mechanisms of action. Ginger has significant potential as a natural medicine due to its biologically active compounds. Research shows that ginger has a variety of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumour, antipyretic, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. Research shows that ginger may be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of several diseases, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic kidney disease. Although scientific evidence supports the efficacy of ginger in many areas, further clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy, optimal dosage and potential side effects.

EFFECTS OF CAFFEINE IN FEMALE RAT MODELS OF DEPRESSION

2025-03-01T07:55:39+02:00

Purpose of the research. Assessment of the effect of caffeine on behavioral indicators of female rats in a state of depression induced by methods of unpredictable stress and contagious depression.

Methodology. The study was conducted on white sexually mature female rats weighing 230–300 g (N = 72), divided into six groups: intact; females with depression (method of unpredictable chronic stress); female rats that were given caffeine via gavage at a concentration of 25 mg/kg for 5 weeks; females with depression that were given caffeine; female rats with contagious depression; female rats with contagious depression that were given caffeine. Two validated methods were used to assess depressive behavior: the sucrose preference test and the forced swim test. The sucrose preference test was used to determine anhedonia. The forced swim test evaluated immobilization and climbing to assess helpless behavior and stress adaptation activity. Data were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey’s post hoc test.

Scientific novelty. For the first time, a comparative study of the effect of caffeine on female rats in two different models of depression was conducted. The results obtained allowed us to evaluate different mechanisms of depressive behavior caused by chronic stress and social factors. The analysis allowed us to determine that the effectiveness of caffeine varies depending on the type of depression.

Conclusions. In female rats in models of unpredictable stress and contagious depression, manifestations of anhedonia were observed, namely, a decrease in sucrose preference compared to the control group. An increase in immobility time and a decrease in climbing were also observed, which indicates the formation of helpless behavior. This shows different neurobiological mechanisms of stress regulation depending on its nature. Caffeine had a pronounced antidepressant effect depending on the model of depression. In females in the model of chronic unpredictable stress, caffeine caused an increase in sucrose preference, a decrease in immobilization time, and an increase in climbing. Still, these indicators remained lower than control values. In females with contagious depression, the effect of caffeine was more pronounced: indicators of sucrose preference and climbing almost reached control values. This may be due to the impact of caffeine on social and emotional aspects of behavior. At the same time, in chronic stress, where changes affect more complex adaptation mechanisms, its effect is less pronounced.

QUALIMETRIC EVALUATION OF THE MOСНI FROZEN DESSERTS MADE USING BY-PRODUCTS OF JUICE PRODUCTION

2025-01-28T20:27:04+02:00

The work is devoted to the qualimetric evaluation of the quality of Mochi frozen desserts using by-products of juice production as a fruit filling.

The by-products of juice production, which are proposed to be used in the presented studies, are apple and blueberry extracts. They accumulate to a large extent in canneries and restaurants. In the vast majority of squeezes, they are disposed of, causing economic losses to enterprises and negatively affecting the environment by polluting it. Only 8 % of such by-products are further processed in compound feed plants and for the production of pectin. However, pomace has significant potential as an enriching raw material for the production of health products, as they have a chemical composition rich in dietary fibers, vitamins and minerals. The use of pomace in the production of Mochi frozen desserts will allow to obtain functional products with added value thanks to the complex processing of raw materials. The introduction of non-traditional fortifying raw materials can significantly affect not only the nutritional value of desserts, but also their quality. Therefore, for a comprehensive assessment of the quality of frozen desserts, a “property tree” has been developed, which includes organoleptic, physico-chemical and structural-mechanical quality indicators, as well as nutritional and energy value. The weighting coefficients of individual and group properties are determined. According to the developed “property tree”, a qualitative assessment of the quality of Mochi frozen desserts was carried out.

The purpose of the article – comprehensive evaluation of the quality of Mochi frozen desserts made using the by-products of juice production as a filling component and guar gum as a rice dough stabilizer, using the principles of qualimetry.

Methodology. During the work, we used physico-chemical, organoleptic research methods, principles of qualimetry that take into account individual and group qualities of the developed products. Results were processed using MC Excel databases.

The scientific novelty is that the application of the principles of qualimetry established the effectiveness of adding 10 % of guar gum to the weight of rice flour to prevent the loss of structural and mechanical properties of Mochi dessert dough during freezing and thawing. The expediency of using apple and blueberry juice for enriching Mochi frozen desserts and providing them with added value due to complex processing of raw materials has also been established.

Conclusions: a “property tree” of Mochi frozen desserts was developed. On the basis of the compiled “property tree”, a comprehensive assessment of the quality of the developed products was carried out using apple or blueberry pomace as a fruit component of the filling and guar gum as a rice dough structure stabilizer. Based on the conducted qualitative assessment of quality, Mochi frozen desserts are recommended for production, the dough of which will contain 10 % of guar gum by mass of rice flour. At the same time, it is recommended to use both apple and blueberry pomace as a fruit component for the filling. In addition, the developed "property tree" can be used in the future for a comprehensive assessment of the quality of frozen desserts based on dairy and fruit raw materials with the use of various enrichment additives.

LOW-ALLERGENIC SHORT COOKIES ENRICHED WITH CASSAVA POWDER AND ALTERNATIVE PROTEIN FOR MILITARY NUTRITION

2025-02-28T06:32:56+02:00

To create hypoallergenic shortbread cookies, cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) and snail protein isolate (Helix pomatia) were studied. Cassava contains starch (11.2 %), sugars (4.7 %), fiber (3.8 %), and pigments. Snail isolate (93 % protein) was used as an egg substitute for dietary and military nutrition. Microwave vacuum drying of cassava improved its quality and preserved antioxidants. Microwave vacuum drying of cassava yielded a powder with increased starch content (43 %), sugars (18 %), fiber (14.6 %), and preserved natural pigments. In the cookies, cassava powder replaced starch, sugar, pigments, and gluten, while snail isolate replaced eggs. The recipe used 38 % cassava and 3.48 % snail isolate. Wheat flour was replaced with 80% low-gluten wheat flour and 20 % cassava powder. Compared to standard shortbread cookies, the experimental sample showed a 24.3 % increase in protein content, reaching 9.2 g per 100 g of product. Similarly, dietary fiber content increased by 74.6 % to 10.3 g/100 g, and ash content increased by 155.6%, reaching 2.3 g/100 g. The fat content in shortbread cookies enriched with cassava powder and snail protein isolate decreased by 7.5 %, carbohydrate content decreased by 11.5 %, and the product's energy value decreased by 8%, reaching 407.8 kcal per 100 g. The cookies' textural characteristics improved, as evidenced by 48 % reduction in hardness. At the same time, the friability indicators remained almost unchanged, decreasing by only 2 % compared to regular shortbread cookies. These changes made cookies with added cassava powder and snail protein isolate more appealing to consumers.

Objective: To develop hypoallergenic, gluten-free, and egg-free cookies with increased protein and mineral content for dietary and military nutrition.

Scientific Novelty: Determination of the effectiveness of using cassava powder and snail protein isolate in shortbread dough.

Methodology: Physicochemical and organoleptic research methods were used during the study. Data processing was performed using MS Excel databases.

Conclusions: Positive changes in nutritional value, texture, gluten reduction, protein increase, and the presence of bioactive components make cassava and snail isolate promising for dietary and military nutrition.

INCREASING THE NUTRITIONAL VALUE AND EXPANDING THE RANGE OF SAUCES FOR HEALTH

2025-02-21T06:41:09+02:00

The purpose of the study is to select a fruit and berry and spice flavouring composition with a high content of biologically active substances and to produce a health-promoting sauce from it.

Methodology. Both traditional and non-traditional fruits and berries, spices and flavoured raw materials were investigated for the production of a health-promoting sauce.

The content of biologically active substances in each type of raw material was determined using standard methods: pectin substances, bioflavonoids, ascorbic acid, carotenoids, dietary fibers, organic acids necessary to give health properties to the final product.

A complex indicator based on qualimetric methods was used to quantitatively assess the quality of the finished sauces.

Scientific novelty. According to the content of the main biologically active substances, according to the developed complex quality indicator, it is proposed to create a puree-mix composition for sauce with a combination of spicy-flavoured medicinal raw materials. This is done in order to increase the nutritional value of the product, give it health properties and create competitive products on the market.

Conclusions. In this study, the feasibility of using a berry mixture based on blackcurrants and cherries and spicy and aromatic raw materials to produce a health-promoting sauce was investigated and confirmed. According to the research results, both blackcurrants and cherries contain a significant amount of pectin substances, bioflavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin C, which confirms the possibility of their use for the production of healthy food. According to the comprehensive quality indicator developed, the optimum ratio of blackcurrants to cherries in the finished sauce is 1.5:1.

In order to additionally enrich the sauce with biologically active substances, give it pleasant organoleptic properties and expand the range of healthy sauces, blackcurrant leaf powder and hyssop powder were added as a spice and flavouring additive in an amount of 0.6 %.

ASSESSMENT OF THE COMBINED EFFECT OF HEAVY METALS AND SURFACTANTS ON CARP FISH ORGANISMS

2025-02-20T06:28:57+02:00

Pollution of aquatic ecosystems is one of the current environmental problems that negatively affects aquatic organisms, in particular cyprinid fish. Heavy metals and surfactants are the main anthropogenic toxicants that can cause significant morphological and biochemical changes in the body of fish. Research into their impact is important for assessing the state of water resources and developing measures to reduce environmental risks.

Purpose of the work: to assess the impact of heavy metal ions (Zn²⁺, Cd²⁺) and sodium lauryl sulfate on the morphological and biochemical indicators of the carp body. The object of the study is biochemical and morphological transformations in the carp body. The subject of the study is changes in the content of glucose, proteins, lipids and moisture in carp tissues under the influence of toxic substances.

Methodology. The study was conducted on two-year-old carp of the scaly and mirror morphotypes (Cyprinus carpio L.) weighing 250–350 g. Fish were kept in 200 dm³ aquariums with settled tap water, in which a stable hydrochemical regime was maintained. Toxic load was created by introducing appropriate concentrations of Zn²⁺, Cd²⁺ and sodium lauryl sulfate. Morphological changes (damage to the skin, fins, gills) and biochemical parameters (content of glucose, proteins, lipids and moisture in tissues) were analyzed. The results obtained were processed by statistical methods.

Scientific novelty. For the first time, the combined effect of heavy metals and surfactants on the morphological and biochemical parameters of the carp organism was studied, which allows using ichthyological parameters as bioindicators of aquatic environment pollution.

Conclusions. During the experiment, changes in the appearance of the fish were observed, in particular damage to the fins and skin and scales, increased mucus secretion in carp that were in an aquarium with sodium lauryl sulfate for 14 days. When toxicants of various origins act on the fish body, the glucose content is more sensitive than the total protein content. These indicators can be recommended for monitoring water bodies using fish of the cyprinid family. Under the influence of toxic environmental conditions, a decrease in the lipid content was observed in both white muscles and liver tissues, with the exception of the simultaneous exposure to sodium lauryl sulfate and ions. An increase in the amount of lipids in the liver can lead to exhaustion of the body and indicate tissue degeneration. When studying the effect of toxic substances on the moisture content in various carp tissues, no significant changes were observed. The presence of a multi-stage cell defense system, which has developed during phylogenetic development, determines the complexity of the cause-and-effect relationships between biochemical processes and their focus, primarily, on maintaining the optimal metabolic balance of the cell and the organism as a whole, which is expressed in changes in biochemical indicators.

COSMARIUM MANDOSII VAN WESTEN & COESEL 2020 (ZYGNEMATOPHYCEAE, STREPTOPHYTA), NEW SPECIES FOR UKRAINE, THE SECOND RECORD IN THE WORLD AFTER AUTHORS DESCRIPTION IN THE NETHERLANDS

2025-03-03T18:06:25+02:00

A new species of desmid algae - Cosmarium mandosii Van Westen & Coesel 2020, first described in the Netherlands in 2020, was discovered in the quarry pond “Zemsnariad” (Mlynovyshche Lake) in Chernihiv city (Ukraine).

The aim of the study was to investigate the morphology of a representative of the species C. mandosii, discovered in the quarry pond (Chernihiv city), as well as to provide a taxonomic list of algae Zygnematophyceae, Streptophyta of the quarry pond “Zemsnariad”.

Samples for algological analysis (periphyton of submerged parts and old leaves of Phragmites sp. and squeezed liquid Ceratophyllum demersum) were collected in June 2024 in the quarry pond “Zemsnariad”, which is located within Chernihiv city, close to its historical part. Both live samples and those fixed with 4 % formalin (for further storage and examination) were studied. Microscopic examination of the samples was carried out using light microscope Zeiss Imager A2 and Canon R6 camera. Some chemical parameters of the water were determined: 1) pH and electrical conductivity using portable multimeters H&M COM-100 and H&M PH-200; 2) the content of ions NO^3-, SO₄^2-, NH₄⁺, Cu²⁺, Zn²⁺, Mn²⁺, Fe_total according to regulated methods in the local state laboratory of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. It was established that the dimensional features of the representative of the species C. mandosii found in Chernihiv coincide with the data of other authors. This is the first published discovery of Cosmarium mandosii Van Westen & Coesel 2020 outside the Netherlands after the first description of this species in 2020. The algoflora of Ukraine is enriched with a new rare species. This is also the first published study of Zygnematophyceae, Streptophyta algae of the quarry pond ”Zemsnariad” (Chernihiv, Ukraine). C. mandosii was discovered together with 18 other taxa of desmid algae.

The area of C. mandosii distribution in Europe was expanded. Illustrations of the Ukrainian material were provided. “Zemsnariad” quarry pond (Mlynovyshche Lake) is a locality of the new for Chernihiv Polesie species Cosmarium vexatum West 1892, and the new for Ukraine and rare for the world species C. mandosii.

THE SYNTAXONOMY OF FLOODPLAIN FORESTS OF THE SNOV RIVER BASIN

2025-02-25T07:20:52+02:00

Purpose of the work. To establish syntacosnomic units of groups of floodplain forests of the Snov river basin.

Methodology. The article contains the systematized and generalized results of the study of the syntaxonomic composition of the groups of floodplain forests of the Snov River basin as a basis for field research in 2019-2024, as a result of which 61 geobotanical descriptions. The classification of forest vegetation was carried out according to the principles of the Braun – Blanquet floristic classification of vegetation.

Scientific novelty. The modern syntaxonomic structure of alder and willow-poplar floodplain forests of the Snov River basin has been established.

Conclusions. The distribution of forest vegetation within the study area is determined mainly by edaphic and hydrological factors, which determine the formation of the floodplain forest grouping of the study area. The forest vegetation of the floodplain forests of the Snov River basin is represented by 2 classes, 2 orders, 2 unions and 10 associations, respectively, namely: the class Salicetea purpureae Moor 1958, which is represented by the order Salicetalia purpureae Moor 1958, the union Salicion albae Soó 1951, which includes four associations Salicetum albae Issler 1926, Poo nemoralis-Salicetum albae Shevchyk et Solomakha 1996, Salici-Populetum (Tx. 1931) Meijer-Drees 1936, Populetum nigro-albae Slavnić 1952 and the class Alnetea glutinosae Br.-Bl. et. Tx. ex Westhoff et al. 1946, which is represented by the order Alnetalia glutinosae Tx. 1937, the union Alnion glutinosae Malcuit 1929 and includes six associations Ribo nigri-Alnetum Solińska-Górnicka (1975) 1987, Carici acutiformis-Alnetum Scamoni 1935, Carici elongatae-Alnetum Schwickerath 1933, Angelico sylvestri-Alnetum Borhidi 1966, Urtico dioicae-Alnetum glutinosae (Scamoni 1935) Fukarek 1961, Carici elatae-Alnetum glutinosae Franz 1990. The studied floodplain forest vegetation belongs to forest biotopes D1.6. The associations Salicetum albae, Salici-Populetum, Populetum nigro-albae of the Salicetea purpureae class have synsozological status and are protected under the European Council Directive 92/43/EEC. The groups of the Alnetea glutinosae class do not have a protected status, but the Carici elongatae-Alnetum associations require protection. The rare component of the floristic core of the associations is represented by three species, among them Equisetum hyemale L., Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn, Hottonia palustris L., which have a regionally rare status in the Chernihiv region.

LIGHT ABSORPTION CAPACITY OF FLOWERS OF THE INVASIVE SPECIES AMBROSIA ARTEMISIIFOLIA L.

2025-03-07T16:26:28+02:00

The purpose of the work. Determining the light absorption capacity of common ragweed flowers.

Methodology. The selection of male flowers was carried out at the flowering stage in the upper part of the plant crown, where the plants receive the maximum amount of light and this process occurs most intensively. Reflectance spectra were obtained in the range of 350–800 nm. Colorimetric parameters were determined in the CIE XYZ and CIE L*a*b* systems. For additional identification of flavonoids, flowers were extracted with isopropanol and chemisorption of compounds from the extract on the surface of aluminum oxide was performed with subsequent determination of spectral characteristics.

Scientific novelty. Reflectance and colorimetric characteristics determined for the first time to confirm the photoprotective effect of UV-absorbing flavonoids in common ragweed flowers.

Conclusions. A defining feature of the reflectance spectra of flowers of the invasive species Ambrosia artemisiifolia as a heliophyte is an increase in the intensity of the maximum of UV-absorbing flavonoids compared to carotenoids and chlorophylls. To increase the degree of distribution of the detected maxima, the spectral reflectance curve was differentiated. The reflectance characteristics of the flowers resulted in a stimulus with a dominant wavelength in the yellow range. The increased localization of flavonoids in the surface tissues of flowers causes an increase in the photoprotective ability as an adaptive enhancement of the reproductive system of the invasive species. Flavonoids were identified due to their chelating properties by chemisorption from plant extract on aluminum oxide. As a result of the sorption interaction, a yellow-green adsorbate was obtained. The presence of flavonoids in the adsorbate was confirmed by spectral characteristics. The obtained results confirm the role of phenolic compounds in increasing the competitiveness of invasive plants according to the shifting defence hypothesis. The proposed methodological approaches can be applied to identify invasive species at the flowering stage and when using the resource potential of these plants to obtain biologically active substances.

STUDY OF ORGANIC POLLUTION OF SURFACE WATERS OF THE RIVER IN THE ZONE OF ANTHROPOGENIC IMPACT OF WATER DISCHARGE

2025-01-26T13:25:14+02:00

Objective. The purpose of the study was to analyze the impact of RNPP water discharges on the water quality of the Styr River by the organic pollution indices (OPI). The objectives of the study included monitoring changes in organic pollution concentrations by the following indicators: biochemical oxygen demand (BOD₅), chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate (NO₃^–), ammonium nitrogen (N–NH₃), nitrite (NO₂^–), orthophosphate (PO₄^3–) and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations in the water of the Styr River in the zone of influence of the Rivne Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) water discharge and calculation of the OPI by different methods. The object of the study is the surface waters of the Styr River, in particular, their organic pollution by the values of the OPI. The subject of the study is the variations of the OPI calculated by different methods and their dynamics under the influence of anthropogenic factor of influence of water discharge from the RNPP.

Methodology. The study covered the period of 2020–2022 and was based on the analysis of chemical indicators: BOD₅, COD, NO₃^–, N–NH₃, NO₂^–, PO₄^3–, and DO. Several calculation methods and statistical analysis of the data were used to determine the dynamics of the OPI. The assessment of the ecological state of the Styr River was carried out in accordance with the standards of maximum allowable concentrations (MAC) for fishery and domestic water bodies.

Scientific novelty. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of organic pollution of the Styr River in the RNPP impact zone, taking into account different methods of calculating the OPI. The applied approaches allow us to adapt the research methods for other water bodies, which is important for improving environmental monitoring.

Conclusions. The results of the study show that the water of the Styr River mostly corresponds to the ‘clean’ state according to the OPI, but there were some periods of exceeding the thresholds. In the warm season, organic pollution increases due to an increase in COD and BOD₅, while in the winter season, the accumulation of NO₃^– dominates, and the maximum concentrations of N–NH₃ often exceeded the MAC for fisheries, indicating impact of organic pollution.