This article examines the scientific and pedagogical activities of Igor I. Grandberg, a prominent Soviet and Russian scientist in the field of organic chemistry, Honored Scientist of the Russian Federation, Doctor of Chemical Sciences, and Professor. A brief biography of the scientist is presented, showcasing his contribution to both national and global science. I. I. Grandberg’s scientific interests were focused on the development of novel synthetic methods and the study of the chemical and biological properties of heterocyclic compounds. In this area of chemistry, he discovered a significant new reaction, which the international scientific community subsequently named the “Grandberg Reaction.” The article also discusses his achievements in studying the mechanisms of chemical reactions and solving applied problems for various sectors of the national economy. Furthermore, the significant contribution of I. I. Grandberg to the training of specialists for the country’s agro-industrial sector is discussed, particularly through his repeatedly reissued textbook “Organic Chemistry” for bachelor’s and specialist degree students in agricultural, biological, and medical areas.

   This study presents investigations into the rheological properties of model soil samples at various moisture contents. The aim was to determine the feasibility of enhancing the accuracy of rheological flow equation determination by employing a software product with an integrated mathematical apparatus for processing experimental data and flow curves. Rheology, the science of flow and deformation of materials, is concerned with the study of structural-mechanical properties during the deformation process. Investigating the rheological properties of soil will allow for tracing the nature of inter-particle interactions within the soil and, furthermore, for determining its structural-mechanical properties, such as viscosity, elasticity, plasticity, ultimate shear stress, and others. The obtained results indicate that all model soil samples can be classified as structural-viscous systems, for which the Ostwald-de Waele rheological equation is applicable for describing their deformation behavior. By utilizing a software product to process experimental data obtained by rotational viscometry, it is possible to derive the values of the coefficients within the rheological equation, which accurately describe the deformation behavior of the investigated samples.

   A comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of soil bioactivation was conducted in the Steppe zone of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic to determine the potential for enhancing the efficiency of fertilizer systems in organic farming and compare them with conventional systems. Agronomically valuable microorganisms, incorporated into commercial biopreparations such as Rhizoplan, Azolen, Ultrex, and Mycotop, were used as bioactivation agents. The experiment was established on a long-term observation plot, part of the Geoset No. 082. A comparative assessment of the conventional fertilizer system (N 63P42K32) and the organic system without mineral fertilizer application was performed based on economic indicators and carbon balance, the latter serving as a measure of climatic well-being. Organic fertilizers utilized included manure, green manures (winter rape-seed), winter wheat straw, and their combinations. Treatments involving soil bioactivation were designated by the letter “a”. Data analysis revealed that the complete abandonment of mineral fertilizers without any organic fertilizers (control treatment) does not meet the criteria for effective farming. Compared to the conventional fertilizer system, this control treatment showed a yield reduction of 0.95 t/ha, a negative economic efficiency (–3015 RUB/ha), and a decrease in the CO₂-eq footprint within the agroecosystem by 0.42 t/ha. The use of single organic fertilizers resulted in increased winter wheat yields and comparable economic indicators. Maximum efficiency was achieved when combining all investigated organic fertilizers with soil bioactivation. This particular treatment, compared to the mineral fertilization option, led to a yield increase of 0.24 t/ha, and an enhancement in economic and climatic effects by 6945 RUB/ha and 23.5 t CO₂-eq, respectively.

   Currently, there is a heightened demand for off-season raspberry fruit.

   Consequently, the aim of this work was to investigate the effect of the biostimulant Isabion on the growth characteristics and productivity of red raspberry plants of the remontant type of fruiting under the conditions of the Central Black Earth Region.

   This study presents the results of three-year observations on the effect of the plant growth biostimulant Isabion on increasing the productivity of introduced cultivars of remontant raspberries Polka, Polyana, Shugana, Utrennyaya Rosa, with the domestic cultivar Zhar-Ptitsa serving as the control. Three foliar applications of Isabion (8 ml/l) promoted the activation of vegetative growth and productivity in the experimental plants, which is likely associated with enhanced metabolic processes. During the observation period, in the experimental treatments, the shoot height of the studied cultivars increased by an average of 10–15 %, the number of laterals per shoot by 1.9–3.1, berry weight by 14.5–19.2%, and raspberry plantation yield by 15–20 % compared to the control. The largest-fruited cultivars were Shugana and Utrennyaya Rosa, with berry weights of 6.3 g and 5.6 g, respectively. The small-fruited cultivar Polyana exhibited high responsiveness to the treatment, showing an increase in average berry weight by 19.2 %. The research demonstrated that the inclusion of foliar feeding with a physiologically active preparation (Isabion), containing a complex of amino acids and peptides, into the technological cultivation protocol for remontant raspberries resulted in an average yield increase of 15–20 % across cultivars. The highest yields were recorded for cultivars Polka (24.4 t/ha) and Shugana (33.7 t/ha).

   The relevance of this work stems from the need to obtain a large amount of planting material for establishing and renewing commercial orchards.

   Accelerated propagation of rootstocks for stone fruit crops will contribute to the development of the fruit growing industry. This article presents two-year data on the aerosol application of 4-(indol-3-yl)butyric acid (IBA) for rooting herbaceous cuttings of clonal stone fruit rootstocks: OP 23–23, VSL-2, and plum cultivar Eurasia 21. Prepared herbaceous cuttings were tied into bundles, their basal ends immersed 1–1.5 cm deep in a container with distilled water, and then placed in a film chamber for aerosol treatment lasting 4 to 20 hours. The aerosol was generated using an ultrasonic humidifier connected to a timer. The operating mode was cyclic, with mist generation for one minute followed by a 9-minute interval. The working solution of the rooting stimulant (25 mg/l) was prepared from “Koren Super”, WDG (5 g/kg indolyl-3-butyric acid) produced by Avgust, AO. An increase in rooting success was observed across all treatments. The best rooting rate was achieved with 16–20 hours of exposure, reaching 97.7 %, which is 10–11 % higher compared to the control. The number of first-order roots significantly increased, but their average length increased only slightly. The average length of new growth noticeably increased. A significant difference in the average number of new shoots was observed only for rootstock OP 23–23 with 20 hours of exposure in 2024.

   The Apiaceae family holds a significant market share, currently dominated by open-pollinated varieties. This results in a lack of uniformity and suboptimal quality, necessitating the development of F1 hybrids. Breeding challenges associated with manual flower emasculation have compelled breeders to employ biotechnological approaches, including somatic hybridization, which leverage traits of self-incompatibility and male sterility. Protoplast technology and somatic hybridization have emerged as crucial instruments in the genetic improvement and breeding of Apiaceae crops, such as carrot and celery, which are of significant economic importance but traditionally rely on open-pollinated varieties. This article discusses the application of protoplast fusion technology for generating somatic hybrids and cybrids, as well as in vitro selection targeting commercially important traits such as cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) and genetic male sterility (GMS), which are critical for hybrid seed production and trait introgression. Information is provided on plant materials and tissues suitable for protoplast isolation. Typically, young leaves, hypocotyls, or cell suspension cultures are utilized as sources owing to their high viability and regenerative potential, alongside various enzyme mixtures employed for cell wall digestion and the release of viable protoplasts. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and breeders aiming to utilize protoplast fusion technology for the genetic improvement of Apiaceae crops, thereby ultimately contributing to enhanced agricultural productivity and crop quality.

   The aim of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of biological fungicides against winter barley root rot pathogens for their subsequent practical application in ecological protection technologies within the Krasnodar Territory.

   The experiments were conducted at the Federal Scientific Center for Biological Plant Protection (FRCBPP) under field infection nursery conditions during 2023–2025.

   The object of study comprised winter barley root rot pathogens of Fusarium and Helminthosporium etiology.

   Selected for the study were preparations containing various agents of biological origin and their metabolites: Geostim Fit, A, L (2 l/t); Alirin B, L (2 l/ha); Pseudobacterin-2, L (1 l/ha); Sterniphag, WP (80 g/t); Trichocin, WP (20 g/t); an experimental sample from the FR-CBPP based on Bacillus velezensis BZR336 g, L (3 l/t); an experimental sample from the FRCB-PP based on Pseudomonas chlororaphis BZR245-F, L (3 l/t); Orgamica F, L (0.7 l/t); and Scarlet, ME (0.4 l/t) (chemical standard). The maximum efficacy against Fusarium seed infection was observed after treatment with Trichocin, WP (94.5 %), Geostim Fit, A, L (92.4 %), Alirin-B, L (92.3 %), and Organica F, L (91.1 %). Laboratory and field germination rates were highest after seed treatment with preparations based on Trichoderma asperellum – 96 % (Organica F, L), Bacillus velezensis – 95 % (experimental sample from the FRCBPP based on Bacillus velezensis BZR336 g, L), and Pseudomonas chlororaphis – 95 % (experimental sample from the FRCBPP based on Pseudomonas chlororaphis BZR245-F, L). The highest plant stand densities were recorded on experimental plots treated with Alirin-B, L, Geostim Fit, A, L (488 plants/m²), Sterniphag, WP (485 plants/m²), Pseudobacterin-2, L, and the Scarlet, ME standard (484 plants/m²). High efficacy rates against root and radical rots were determined for preparations based on Bacillus subtilis Alirin-B, L (68.3 %), Pseudomonas chlororaphis BZR245-F, L (65.2 %), and Trichoderma harzianum Sterniphag, WP (60.3 %). Research into the efficacy of biological preparations for protecting barley from root rot is crucial for practical application within the agro-industrial sector of both the region and the country.

   This review commences by detailing the significance and classification of turfgrass stands, along with an overview of global leaders in turfgrass culture, breeding, and seed production. An overall assessment is provided for the state of sports turfs, including football pitches and golf courses, from economic and eco-geographical perspectives, covering their distribution within the Russian Federation. The article thoroughly describes the taxonomy infection cycles, and specific pathogenesis of pathogens causing diseases of natural sports surfaces. These diseases are classified by affected plant organs into those impacting the root system and those affecting the foliar apparatus (leaves, grass). As causal agents of root rots, fungi from the genera Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Gaeumannomyces graminis, and oomycetes from the genus Pythium are noted. Among the significant infectious diseases affecting the foliar apparatus of sports turf, rust diseases, various leaf spots, and powdery mildew are described. It is demonstrated that many dominant pathogens can equally infect both underground and aboveground parts of host plants; these include fungi from the genera Bipolaris and Drechslera, known to cause root rots, leaf spots, and seed necrosis. Dangerous winter diseases of playing fields described include snow molds, caused by cryophilic fungi. Alongside common diseases of sports turfs, attention is paid to relatively new ones, including anthracnose, blast, and ‘fairy rings’ of various etiologies, which have reached epiphytotic levels on golf courses in several countries in recent decades. Information is provided on the only recorded bacterial disease found on sports grounds – bacterial leaf wilt (Xanthomonas translucens); the names of viruses capable of affecting turf grass are also listed. The review systematically organizes data on methods for controlling sports turf diseases. It is of both theoretical and practical interest for researchers and students specializing in turfgrass science, as well as for agronomists in the field of sports turf management.

   This study determined the persistence of tomato pathogens (Solanum lycopersicum L.) on wooden trellises and their garters after three years of outdoor overwintering, followed by nine months of indoor storage at positive temperatures. The trellises were initially used in a plot with nine tomato varieties and hybrids during a pathogen epiphytotic in 2021 in the Kimry District, Tver Region. The trellises consisted of miscanthus stalks and wooden laths with garter materials (twine). Microorganisms were identified by rinsing the trellises and garters, followed by microscopic analysis using a Lomo Mikmed microscope equipped with a digital camera. The persistence of microorganisms was assessed based on the colonization rate (%) of trellises and garters by viable pathogens and associated microorganisms. Following the designated storage period, the following pathogens were detected: Cladosporium fulvum, Alternaria alternata, Phytophthora infestans, Phoma spp., and Epicoccum spp. Additionally, associated microorganisms such as Trimmatostroma spp., protococcoid algae (Protococcophyceae), and cyanobacteria were found. During the three-year storage period, approximately 2030 mm of precipitation occurred, and the minimum temperature reached –31.9 °C. After three years of outdoor overwintering, at least four major tomato disease agents persisted on the trellises. These experimental data on such long-term survival of tomato infection on trellises have been obtained for the first time and highlight the necessity of incorporating measures for the destruction or thorough disinfection of used trellises and garters after harvest into tomato cultivation guidelines.

   Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a dangerous, highly specialized necrotrophic phytopathogen that infects approximately 400 plant species, including economically important crops such as sunflower, rape-seed, soybean, and others. This fungus causes white mold (syn. sclerotiniosis), one of the most destructive diseases, especially in regions with cool and humid climates. The pathogen S. sclerotiorum has a simple life cycle, where infection occurs either via mycelium from dormant sclerotia in the soil or by ascospores from apothecia. The pathogen can penetrate through the stem base or aerially through flowers and dead plant tissues. Soybean cultivation in Russia is continuously expanding, and therefore the pathogen poses a particular problem, leading to significant yield losses. This review summarizes current data on the biology of S. sclerotiorum, its mechanisms of pathogenicity and interaction with the host plant, dissemination pathways, and impact assessment. It also covers methods for monitoring and diagnosing soybean white mold, existing control methods (agronomic, biological, and chemical), as well as achievements and challenges in soybean breeding for white mold resistance. In conclusion, promising research directions are discussed, aimed at developing more effective and environmentally safe methods for protecting soybeans from S. sclerotiorum.

   Rationing of dairy cattle is one of the critical challenges faced by every farm. A comprehensive approach to addressing this challenge involves both theoretical substantiation and practical analysis of the actual composition of both feedstuffs and the resulting milk. Crucially, regular milk analyses enable the “response” to be recorded, allowing for an assessment of the actual level of nutrient assimilation and transformation from the diet. Our investigation was conducted as a single-point study on Simmental cows (n = 15) at a training farm located in the Voronezh Region. The feeding ration comprised 3.0 kg of mixed hay, 0.5 kg of straw, 32.0 kg of green mass (mixed grasses), and 4.6 kg of concentrates. Feed sampling was performed in parallel with milk sampling. Milk component composition analysis was performed using the “CombiFoss-7” analytical system; trace element analysis was conducted using an “atomic absorption spectrometer ZEEnit 650 P” (Analytik Jena AG); and feed composition analysis adhered to the relevant GOST standards. The results indicated satisfactory levels of metabolic energy, protein, and trace element supply, which aligned with the physiological requirements of the animals (considering productivity level, live weight, etc.). However, an excessive intake of iron via feedstuffs was identified. Based on the assessment
of milk component composition, specifically the milk protein content and urea levels, it appears that the energy and protein provided by the feedstuffs in the diet are not optimally utilized. For instance, in 40 % of the investigated cows, milk protein content (MPC) was below 3.20 %; for 47 %, it ranged from 3.21 % to 3.60 %; and for 13%, MPC exceeded 3.61 %. Furthermore, 69 % of the cows exhibited milk urea levels below 10 mg* 100ml^-1 (with levels only slightly higher in individual cows, but no samples exceeding 15 mg* 100ml^-1). The average milk fat content (MFC) observed in our study was 23.1 % lower than the typical values for the Simmental breed. Positively, 20 % of the animals investigated showed MFC above 3.61 %. This comprehensive evaluation of feed composition and milk biochemical parameters revealed a discernible imbalance. We recommend close attention be paid to balancing the dietary requirements of cows for energy, protein, and micronutrients. This balance can be disrupted by factors such as feeding behavior ethology, as well as specific physiological and biochemical aspects of digestion in dairy cows, thus necessitating continuous monitoring.

   This article provides a review of the biotechnology concerning in vivo embryo production and transfer in the equine industry. According to the IETS registry, a total of 152,815 embryo transfers have been performed globally in horse breeding over the past five years alone, with the vast majority (125,017, or 81.81 %) utilizing in vivo embryos. Primarily, freshly recovered embryos are used for transfer. The proportion of cryopreserved embryo transfers remains negligible compared to fresh embryo transfers (0.48 % vs. 99.52 %). Embryos are typically recovered from donor mares without superovulation induction, directly from the uterine lumen. The optimal time for embryo flushing is 7–8 days post-ovulation. Cervical catheterization is performed transcervically, via the vagina, using a flexible double-lumen silicone catheter equipped with an inflatable cuff, under digital guidance (with a gloved hand). The average embryo recovery rate typically ranges from 50–65 %. It is recommended to synchronize the donor’s estrous cycle with those of 2–3 recipients, ensuring that at least one recipient ovulates 1–2 days after the donor mare. Estrus and ovulation synchronization can be induced using compounds from various pharmacological groups that possess progestagenic (e. g., progesterone, altrenogest) and/or luteolytic (e. g., native prostaglandin F_2α or its highly active synthetic analog – cloprostenol) activity, often in combination with ovulation-inducing agents (e. g., deslorelin or hCG). Embryo transfer into the uterus is performed transcervically, using either the manual-uterine or visual-uterine technique. In the first (classical) technique of uterine embryo transfer, cervical canal catheterization is guided by manual control. The second technique involves using a Polansky speculum, with the ventral lip of the vaginal cervix stabilized by Wilshir cervical forceps. The efficiency of the manual-uterine (classical) technique for fresh embryo transfer achieves pregnancy rates of 65.5–77.8 %, whereas the Wilshir technique yields 90.9–93.4 %.

   Ensiling is a feed preservation process the quality of which is largely determined by microbiological processes. Under unfavorable harvesting conditions, high initial moisture content of the plant material, or non-compliance with technology, undesirable microorganisms such as enterobacteria, clostridia, and other species may proliferate instead of lactic acid bacteria. This proliferation degrades the nutritional value and quality of the finished feed.

   The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of new strains of Enterococcus faecium and Bacillus subtilis, employed as biopreservatives, on the microbiota and nutritional value of grass-legume silage.

   The experiment evaluated the inoculation of ensiled biomass with Enterococcus faecium 46 and a combination of Enterococcus faecium 46 and Bacillus subtilis 18, in comparison to a control treatment without a preservative. Silage nutritional parameters and microbiota composition were determined on the 30^th day of plant mass fermentation. The most favorable results regarding dry matter content, neutral detergent fiber, and the proportion of lactic acid in total organic acids were observed with the combined application of Enterococcus faecium and Bacillus subtilis strains. Microbiota assessment via quantitative PCR in this experimental variant revealed the highest abundance of Lactobacillus species and a reduced count of Enterobacteriaceae family representatives, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella sp., and Citrobacter sp. These findings suggest that the synergistic action of these strains during feed preservation effectively inhibited the development of putrefactive and pathogenic toxin-forming bacteria due to enhanced lactic acid synthesis. Based on these results, we conclude that this bacterial complex holds significant promise for improving fermentation and nutrient preservation in ensiled forages.

   The present study investigates the intensity of muscle growth in various anatomical parts of carcasses in Black-and-White heifers and their crosses with Hereford and Charolais breeds. It was established that muscle growth exhibits significant variability, influenced by functional load, genetic factors, and the ontogenetic stage. The most intensive growth was observed in the abdominal musculature, where muscle mass increased by 25.97 times by 18 months of age, significantly exceeding the overall growth rate of carcass muscle mass (16.08). This is attributed to increased functional load, caused by the age-related increase in visceral organ mass and the development of ruminal digestion. Muscles connecting the trunk to the thoracic limbs also exhibited high growth rates, performing functions of trunk support, involvement in locomotion, and counteracting gravitational pull. Large muscles of the pelvic girdle and thigh area, such as the middle gluteus and biceps femoris, were characterized by high power and significant absolute mass, ensuring the extension of the pelvic limbs and generating propulsive thrust. Comparative analysis revealed that the musculature of the axial skeleton (abdominal wall, thoracic cage, vertebral column) grew with positive allometry, while peripheral musculature exhibited negative allometry. By 18 months of age, the relative mass of axial musculature reached 51.87 %, exceeding that of peripheral musculature (48.13 %). The findings highlight the importance of considering functional and genetic characteristics of muscle growth for an objective assessment of the meat quality of various anatomical parts of carcasses.

   Digital twin technology is currently underutilized in the agro-industrial sector. Therefore, implementing an adequate digital twin model will enable a reduction in production line design costs and facilitate the identification of potential vulnerabilities that may arise during the manufacturing process.

   Consequently, the aim of this research is to develop a methodology for creating a digital twin of a cheese production line based on virtual reality technology.

   In alignment with the stated goal, the paper proposes a methodology for designing the production line using virtual reality technology, presented as a three-stage strategy: allocation of roles for virtual reality users, task assignment, and system design. The system design stage encompasses 3D equipment model design, model import, scene creation, and system testing. The object of the study, existing equipment, and utilized software are described. The stages of 3D modeling are presented, involving the creation of a geometric model, texture application, and 3D visualization. Parameters adjustable through the virtual reality platform’s integrated editing methods are outlined. During the scene creation stage, interaction tasks performed during the virtual reality walkthrough are presented: “look and walk”, “touch and teleport”, and “grab”. Furthermore, three additional specific functions are introduced: “virtual menu”, “ voice-over training”, and “production process animation”. To evaluate the proposed approach, a user survey was conducted, which confirmed the necessity of applying a digital twin, developed using virtual reality technology, for the design of cheese production lines. Conclusions were drawn from the conducted research, and further directions for development are proposed.

   This article is dedicated to the development of a conceptual framework for an agricultural services digital aggregator. It is presented as a non-invasive and scalable instrument for agricultural digitalization, substantiated by the case of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The research is grounded in highlighting the particular role of the agrarian sector in the socio-economic development of the region’s rural territories. In Yakutia, approximately one-third of the population resides in rural areas (32.4 %), which is higher than the average across Russia (25.1%) and the Far Eastern Federal District (26.2 %). This demographic distribution is notably atypical when compared to other regions of the Far North and equivalent territories (20.4 %), where a predominant urban population concentration is typically observed. However, the development of agriculture and rural territories in Yakutia is characterized by persistent negative trends, including stagnation in agricultural production, out-migration of the rural population, low wages for workers, and declining employment in agriculture. One promising instrument for mitigating these adverse trends within the context of digitalization is the creation of a specialized digital platform. The aggregator is designed to address the problem of informational asymmetry in the agricultural services market, facilitating the efficient matching of supply and demand through the digitalization of traditional mutual assistance practices inherent to rural communities. The principles of the aggregator’s operation are presented, encompassing mechanisms for demand-supply alignment, integration with the State Services portal for user verification, a secure transaction processing system, and adaptation to the specific characteristics of rural areas. Particular emphasis is placed on the analysis of the socio-economic conditions of Yakutia’s rural territories, which underscores the imperative for such a solution. The developed aggregator concept aims to reduce transaction costs, enhance resource utilization efficiency, and generate additional opportunities for the rural population. In the long term, the platform has the potential to become an integral component of the region’s digital agricultural ecosystem.