bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of an alternative framework for measuring progress towards SDG 7.1
Authors: Pelz Setu , Pachauri Shonali , Rao Narasimha
Published: July 2021

Global progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 7.1: ‘By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services’ continues to be measured by mere access to energy carriers, using binary indicators that inadequately reflect the multi-dimensional nature of the goal. In this work, we describe and apply an alternative framework to track critical dimensions of energy provisioning and household capabilities that aligns more closely with the original SDG 7.1 target wording. We provide new empirical evidence from ten countries describing the extent to which the current indicators underestimate energy poverty and neglect decent access. We find that households officially counted as having access to modern energy sources, in many instances, still benefit only from minimal energy services, receive unreliable energy supply, and struggle with being able to afford energy services they need to enjoy a decent standard of living. We also find that poorer households are systematically over-represented in this population and are more likely to suffer multi-dimensional constraints when counted served by the current indicators. Notwithstanding challenges in data collection and standardisation, we argue that we must improve on binary indicators for measuring progress towards SDG 7.1, to pave the way for agenda setting and policy development that recognises and addresses broad inequities in household capabilities to use modern energy towards achieving a decent living standard.
Thermal utilization of spent sorptive material from phythogenic waste
Authors: Stepanova S V , Yu Garmonov S , Pavlov G I , Kazakova U A
Published: July 2021

The thermal utilization of spent sorptive materials based on phythogenic waste in a pulsating combustion unit is proposed. The combustion temperature was determined based on the method of differential scanning calorimetry and derivatography. The hazard class of the produced ash is calculated on the basis of elemental analysis.
Physicochemical treatment of waste water from complex organic substances
Authors: Ksenofontov B S , Taranov R A , Vinogradov M S , Senik E V
Published: July 2021

This paper considers with the issues of extracting polycyclic hydrocarbons from wastewaters by using physicochemical technology, including the use of flotation, settling, filtration, adsorption, ozonation. The usage of this technology could significantly reduce the concentration of such hazardous substances as benzopyrene in the treated wastewaters. Under certain regimes of wastewaters treatment using physicochemical technology, the concentration of benzopyrene does not exceed the standard values. The prospects for the usage of bio-flotation harvesters for the treatment of wastewaters, which contains complex organic substances are indicated.
Why we need to purify the air from carbon dioxide
Authors: Tkachenko Yu L , Morozov S D , Sherbakova I S , Rovnyagina A S
Published: July 2021

Acute and chronic exposure on humans of carbon dioxide contained both in the air of enclosed spaces and in the atmosphere of the Earth are described. The current tendencies of increasing the CO2 content in the external and internal aerial environment of buildings are shown. A forecast of the consequences of an increase in the content of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere for human health is presented. The paper presents information on the technological systems created by the “Carbon Engineering” enterprise for cleaning the atmosphere from CO2, allowing to eliminate the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the air, regardless of the reasons causing the accumulation. The use of technologies of physicochemical and bio regeneration of the chemical composition of air and water is proposed to create an artificial environment favorable for humans.
Synthesizing phosphorus hydrazones as a method to dispose unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine
Authors: Ryapisova L V , Solyashinova O A , Fridland S V , Khasanova V K
Published: July 2021

This paper deals with studying the possibility of obtaining a phosphorus-containing derivative of acetone N, N-dimethylhydrazone. It is shown that the phosphorylated derivative is not obtained by directly phosphorylating the acetone dimethylhydrazone, but via Abramov reaction from aminoacetone that is afforded in the interaction of diphenylphosphorous acid with the acetone N, N-dimethylhydrazone.
Investigation of the pressure drop on the filtration and protective baffles of a hydrodynamic vibration filter using ANSYS CFX
Authors: Frolov N P , Devisilov V A
Published: July 2021

This paper considers the relationship of the pressure drop at the filtration baffle of a hydrodynamic vibration filter with and without protective baffle for different operation parameters like baffle flowrate and filtration baffle rotation speed. The simulations were done using ANSYS CFX and nonlinear Darcy’s law.
Investigation of the interaction of CO2 and NH3 in the gaseous phase
Authors: Bakirov N G , Makhotkin A F , Starkova A V
Published: July 2021

In the modern world, the issue of increasing the production of soda ash is acute. However, the mechanism of chemisorption CO2 by the ammoniated brine and does not take into account the share of the gas reaction. Regularities of the mechanism and kinetics of the gas-phase reaction of the interaction of the mixture CO2 and NH3 must be taken into account in the conditions of soda ash production both at the stages of ammoniated brine production and at the stages of sodium bicarbonate production.
Ecotoxicological sensing of the arctic seas
Authors: Korsak M N , Mosharov S A
Published: July 2021

The results of ecotoxicological monitoring - studies of the resistance of marine phytoplankton communities of the Arctic seas to some pollutants are presented. The influence of pollutants on primary productivity was assessed as the most sensitive biological process. It is shown that the method of ecotoxicological sounding makes it possible to identify areas most susceptible to chronic pollution, leading to a decrease in biological productivity.
Investigation of the process of desorption of oil-saturated waste of feit production
Authors: Sanatullova Z T , Shaikhiev I G
Published: July 2021

Has been investigated the possibility of using keratin-containing waste of felt production - knop - as a sorption material for oils. The value of the activation energy was determined, which was 27.86 kJ/mol. It was found that the process of interaction of knop with oil is physical and occurs due to changes in the Van der Waals forces.
Electroflotation treatment of wastewater from paint-and-varnish production
Authors: Bondarenko A V
Published: July 2021

The paper presents the results of experimental studies of electroflotation treatment of wastewater from the paint-and-varnish production. Based on the obtained data the electroflotation device was developed and patented and the optimal time intervals of the treated liquid stay in this device were established.
Study of the oxidation process of divalent iron in aqueous solutions during aeration through ceramic membranes modified by layered double hydroxides
Authors: Averina Yu M , Subcheva E N , Kurbatov A Yu , Pshenichkina T V , Boldyrev V S
Published: July 2021

The work considers the issues of intensification of the process of purification of natural waters from compounds of bivalent iron, namely the stage of its oxidation. In the experiments, corundum-based ceramic membranes with a deposited layer of aluminum oxide and the same membranes, but modified with layered double hydroxide (LDH) based on the trivalent iron ion, were used as the aerator material. Experiments were carried out to compare the aeration modes for both types of membranes; an aquarium aerator was taken as a comparison. The contribution of the selective layer with LDH to the oxidation rate of bivalent iron by atmospheric oxygen is shown, which confirms its catalytic activity. The process flow diagram of the aerator is proposed.
Peculiarities of purification of natural water from iron compounds using ceramic membranes
Authors: Yarovaya O V , Averina Yu M , Bogatov N A , Razvodova A A
Published: July 2021

The paper deals with the issues of natural water purification from iron compounds. A comparison of polymeric and ceramic membranes is given. During the experiments, ceramic membranes modified with titanium and completed in a filtering element were used. Experiments on filtration of simulated solutions of ferric iron have been carried out. The dependence of the permeate flux on time for various initial concentrations of ferric iron and the dependence of the working pressure on the volume of the filtrate for various initial concentrations of ferric iron, at a constant filtration rate is shown. It was found that the residual concentrations of iron (III) compounds, regardless of the experimental conditions, met the regulatory requirements and did not exceed 0.3 mg/l. Based on the results obtained, flow diagrams of ultrafiltration units based on ceramic membranes were proposed.
Catalytically active membranes for decomposition of organic compounds in aqueous solutions
Authors: Nyan Htet Lin , Aung Ko Zo , Yarovaya O V , Abaeva E A , Boldyrev V S
Published: July 2021

This work is devoted to the preparation of microfiltration ceramic tubular membranes based on α-Al2O3 with deposited catalytically active layers for use in wastewater treatment processes. Cobalt and manganese oxides were used as the material of the catalytically active layer; deposition was carried out using a mixture of aggregative stable aqueous dispersions of Co3O4 and MnO2 nanoparticles. According to the data of scanning electron microscopy, the thickness of the obtained deposited layers does not exceed 3 μm. X-ray fluorescence analysis confirmed the presence of Mn and Co on the surface of the samples. The resulting membranes with a mass of 10 mg of the deposited layer of the oxide mixture were tested in the methylene blue decomposition reaction in dilute aqueous solutions (1,2 mg/L). The reaction was carried out in a batch reactor at room temperature, complete discoloration of the solution was observed after 180-240 minutes.
Soil treatment using natural biocoenosis
Authors: Taranov R A , Vinogradov M S , Senik E V , Serov S A
Published: July 2021

The paper considers the possibility of using different biocoenosisforsoil treatment of oil contamination. It is indicated that the use of artificial biocoenosis is expensive and not always effective. It is shown that the use of natural biocoenosis, for example, in the form of activated sludge taken from the treatment facilities of oil refineries, is much cheaper and not inferior in effectiveness to the action of biological substance preparations (biological preparations) based on artificial biocoenosis.
Intensification of the biotreatment processes of natural and waste water, contaminated with spent lubricating oils with sorbents of various nature
Authors: Morozov N V , Ganiev I M
Published: July 2021

Biodegradation of spent lubricating oils (mineral, semisynthetic, synthetic) was investigated in natural and waste water of consortia of hydrocarbon-oxidizing microorganisms (HOM) under the influence of sorbents of various nature. It was found that the effectiveness of the latter’s action on the biotreatment processes of water from oils is determined by the size of particles, concentration, formation of active contact surface of phases by them and their participation in neutralization of contaminants. In direct use of sorbents without HOM, are purified 7 to 19.6 % oils. This is achieved within 10-14 days of contact. The joint use with HOM of inert materials (river sand, coal powder, polyethylene chips, etc.), in the same contact times, water is neutralized from lubricating oils from 44.9 to 63.7 % observed under the influence of HOM only. At the same time, with buckwheat, oats, wheat and barley husks with the same level of pollution, the purification of water from lubricating oils reaches 93.7 %. It is related to the simultaneous participation of these sorbents in the formation of a highly active surface for immobilizing contaminants and microflora, to provide stimulating activity of the latter by involving products associated with these materials in oxidative processes.
The experience in the developing of reverberation chambers and «Echonic rooms»
Authors: Laukhin D A , Totunov S S , Adorni E , Ivanova O A , Strokin A A , Ivanov M V
Published: July 2021

This work represents the results of a study of the acoustic characteristics of a room, which is intended (with appropriate additional equipment), according to the project, for the studies of the characteristics of various types of machines of small dimensions. The obtained results show us, that the investigated room, in case the sound-scattering boards with sound-reflecting elements are installed inside, could be attributed to the category of «Echonic» rooms, with the parameters close to reverberation chambers. Therefore, this allow one to carry out practical works to reduce the noise of machines and equipment that do not have high directivity indicators. At the same time, works aimed at reducing the noise of machines in such a «live» room are less laborious compared to similar work in echo-free chambers. Besides, such rooms are less fire hazardous.
Plasma-treating of polymeric membranes for separation of water-oil emulsions
Authors: Dryakhlov V O , Nizameev I R , Kasimova A R , Tsareva O V
Published: July 2021

The effect of high-frequency capacitive low-temperature plasma of reduced pressure of glow in different gas atmospheres on polymeric membranes has been investigated. Increased roughness of plasma-treated PES membranes and smoothing of PAN and PSA filters is shown. For all membranes, oxidative processes are observed as a result of plasma exposure, which is confirmed by the increased C-O content of the IR-spectroscopy group. The growth in wetting capacity of membranes treated with plasma of gas atmospheres is also demonstrated. They contain nitrogen and air and an increase of hydrophobicity in the case of propane and butane gas atmosphere. The increasing in hydrophilicity has been determined experimentally, thus raise of efficiency of water-oil emulsion separation.
Application of wastes productions of energy-saturated substances in receiving civil products
Authors: Romanova S M , Madyakina A M
Published: July 2021

Cellulose nitrate is the main component of pyroxylin powder. Due to the large quantities of the released obsolete pyroxylin powders it becomes necessary to recover them. In this work, we studied the possibility of chemical modification of cellulose nitrate extracted from outdated pyroxylin powder as a rubber plasticizer in standard elastomeric compositions based on butyl rubber.
Wastewater purification from copper and nickel ions by means of thermally modified organo-mineral wastes and their combinations
Authors: Sapronova Zh A , Svyatchenko A V , Sverguzova S V , Gafarov R R
Published: July 2021

Wastewaters, which contain heavy metals, are one of the main sources of environment pollution. This paper presents the data of research findings concerning the combined use of thermally modified organo-mineral waste products of sugar production and brewing industry for purifying test solutions from copper and nickel ions. The most efficient is the sorption material, obtained by heat treatment of brewing industry’s kieselguhr sludge KS450 (94% for nickel ions and 95% for copper ions); the next efficient is the material, obtained from sugar industry’s carbonaceous sludge CS600; the application of combined sorbents showed no increase in wastewater purification efficiency.
New data on reptiles and birds in the North Ustyurt
Authors: Akhmedenov K , Shpigelman M
Published: July 2021

Periodic inventory of species composition of fauna is one of the first tasks in the conservation of biodiversity. The North Ustyurt is one of the natural areas with a weak spatial-temporal study of herpetofauna and avifauna in the Western Kazakhstan. According to 2020 field studies and literary sources, a reliable habitation of one species of amphibians [European green toad Bufotes viridis (Laurenti, 1768)] and six reptile species [grey gecko Mediodactylus russowii (Strauch, 1887), takir agama Phrynocephalus helioscopus (Pallas, 1771), desert sand boa Eryx miliaris (Pallas, 1773), steppe ratsnake Elaphe dione (Pallas, 1773), blotched snake Elaphe sauromates (Pallas, 1814), Halys viper Gloydius halys (Pallas, 1776)]. As a result of the study of avifauna of late migratory and nomadic birds on the cliffs of the Doniztau and Zheltau mountains, 7 species of birds were identified that had not previously been recorded in the area [Tarsiger cyanurus, Ficedula parva red-breasted flycatcher, Eurasian blue tit Parus caeruleus, great tit Parus major, brambling Fringilla montifringilla, Eurasian siskin Carduelis spinus, reed oatmeal Emberiza schoeniclus]. In total, 33 species of birds found on the North Ustyurt. The materials obtained indicate a lack of study of herpetofauna and avifauna of the North Ustyurt and it is necessary to continue research here.
Features of a systematic environmental assessment of the agricultural landscapes in the chestnut soils arid steppe
Authors: Belyakov A M , Nazarova M V
Published: July 2021

Most of the modern agricultural landscapes (agrolandscapes) are significantly deformed in a varying degree. The relevance of systemic assessments of agricultural landscapes lies in prompt and objective identification of their ecological state and deviations, as well as timely development of measures for restoration and preservation of ecosystems. The methodological basis of the research is presented in the works by A.N. Kashtanov, A.A. Zhuchenko, V.A. Nikolaev, V.I. Kiryushin, A.G. Isachenko, M.I. Lopyrev, N.P. Masyutenko and other scientists. The conducted research has allowed revealing a significant impact of agricultural technologies and farming systems (up to 72-78%) on the agrolandscape of the arid zone of chestnut soils of the Volgograd region. The combination of these factors can lead the agricultural objects under study to a high degree of ecological balance or, conversely, to degradation. The authors have developed the system of criteria for direct, indirect and integrated assessment of the state of agricultural landscapes of steppe and dry-steppe zones of the Volgograd region. These criteria are estimated in points from 1 to 5: 5 points (absolutely balanced), 4 points (balanced), 3 points (medium balanced), 2 points (poorly balanced), 1 point or less (unbalanced). This assessment system has been tested on real objects. When calculating the average point, object “C” had 2.3 points (poorly balanced); object “I” – 2.9 points (medium balanced); and object “U” – 3.6 points (relatively balanced). The developed system of direct, indirect and integrated assessment of the state of agricultural landscapes for the conditions of insufficient humidity allows for objective evaluation of agricultural objects in terms of their ecological balance. The system can be used as the basis for regulation of anthropogenic load on the agricultural sphere as well as for timely adoption of organizational and technological measures aimed at restoration of ecological balance in the conditions of insufficient humidity peculiar of the southern regions of the Russian Federation.
Landscape-geomorphological features of natural-territorial complexes of the Middle Don Valley (on the example of Volgograd region)
Authors: Dedova I S , Burul T N
Published: July 2021

The article is dedicated to the assessment of the relationship of the geomorphological elements of the valley of the middle course of the Don in Volgograd region with intrazonal floodplain landscapes and zonal landscapes of floodplain terraces. The purpose of the study is to develop geographical ideas about the regional features of the formation of the considered landscapes. Objectives of the study are geomorphological analysis, which determines the landscape diversity development; assessment of the soil-landscape relation of the zonal steppe geosystems and intrazonal floodplain geosystems, caused by close genetic interconnection; substantiation of landscape structure diversity within the geomorphological units of the Middle Don valley. The study is based on a standard methodology of the landscape-morphological analysis of the territory. Based on the results of the research, described is the landscape structure of the Middle Don Valley, which is characterized by a variety of NTC on a different geomorphological basis. Proved is that the floodplain of the Don in Volgograd Region has distinct geomorphological elements: riverbed floodplain, central and near-terrace floodplains. The above-floodplain terraces are distinguished by the development of 4 generations. The conducted field studies allowed us to establish a close relationship between the local landscape units and the geomorphological conditions of the Middle Don Valley. Floodplain and above-floodplain-terrace types of localities were identified. They are characterized by mottled morphology within their borders highlighted in riverine tracts, the Central area is divided into the floodplain.
Effects of fire on production and destruction processes in steppe phytocenoses of Burtinskaya Steppe, Orenburg Nature Reserve
Authors: Dusaeva G H , Kalmykova O G , Dusaeva N V
Published: July 2021

The paper deals with the production and destruction process in burned and unburned (control) steppe phytocenoses. The fire occurred in August 2014, after which a monitoring network consisting of 6 sites was laid out. During two vegetation seasons (2015 – 2016), we surveyed above-ground and below-ground phytomass stocks and on their basis production and destruction amounts in phytocenoses were calculated. Comparative analysis of control and burned communities revealed higher production and destruction of above-ground phytomass components in both years. With the general tendency for most phytocenoses to reduce above-ground production and increase litter in the second year of the survey, the first process was more intense in burned phytocenoses that were exposed to anthropogenic load in the past, and the second process occurred in almost all burned communities. In the below-ground sphere, mineralization processes were more intense during the entire survey period on control sites, and an increase in the mass of living and dead below-ground organs was more determined by the phytocenoses specifics, rather than their damage by fire.
Perspective steppe protected areas of the Central Chernozem region of Russia (a case study of Voronezh oblast)
Authors: Grigogorjevskaya A Y , Vladimirov D R , Podobed E A , Subbotin A S , Miroshnikova A A
Published: July 2021

The article gives a short description of the present state of Voronezh oblast steppe natural territorial complexes and discovers the reasons of preserved steppe landscapes identification and protection. The authors provide landscape and floristic descriptions of 9 perspective steppe protected areas which are located in 7 administrative-territorial units. Within descriptions particular emphasis is laid on the plant species of Russia and Voronezh oblast Red Data Books. A map of perspective steppe protected areas location is presented in accordance with a scheme of regional physical and geographical zoning.
Scientific approaches solving problems of modern steppe land use on the base of modernization of the landscape-adaptive systems of agriculture
Authors: Gulyanov Yu A , Levykin S V , Kazachkov G V
Published: July 2021

Bioclimatic resources were detected in the paper. Reserves increasing crops’ productivity were estimated to develop and scientifically explain approaches to solve current agricultural use of steppe lands in the post-virgin land region of the Ural and West Siberia. Agrotechnical reasonability of the practiced structure of crops was analyzed. The principal directions to modernize landscape-adaptive agriculture systems were detected based on anthropogenic pressing reduction and soil protection from further degradation. The data source was official statistical indicators (EMISS) placed in open access, expedition research, calculation, and the author’s conclusion. Standard methods of the statistical analysis were used in the data processing. It was ascertained that under practiced agriculture approaches in the Ural and West Siberia post-virgin land regions, a low realization of bioclimatic potential (BCP) of crop capacity (31-37%) was noticed. A line of spatial peculiarities characterized BCP. The useful key factor of crop capacity stabilization and better BCP realization was the modernization of zonal landscape-adaptive systems of agriculture and optimization of an arable lands structure, replenishment of crops diversity, especially having soil-preserving and soil-recovering effect (annual and perennial grasses, feed crops for green mass, leguminous plants, etc.). In modern natural and anthropogenic changes, it was significant to a departure from monocultures, renew scientifically explained crop rotations, keep technological discipline, and support the whole technical process.
Dynamics of phytoproductive functioning of low-mountain steppe landscapes of the Southern Urals
Authors: Khoroshev A V
Published: July 2021

We tested the hypothesis that landscape spatial pattern controlled the range of possible dynamic states. We used NDVI values in 1984-2019 in the low-mountain-steppe landscape in the Southern Urals and calculated Getis-Ord statistic to detect hot and cold spots of high and low green phytomass, respectively. We assessed the stability of hot and cold spots before and after establishment of protective regime and evaluated the contribution of the matter circulation in a catchment geosystem to the stability of phytoproductive functioning. The dynamics of the areas of spots of increased and decreased phytomass in the steppe landscape has a clearly pronounced seasonal variation, determined by the time of increased or decreased evaporation. The frequency of spots of high phytomass increases in the larger catchments. The mode of phytoproductive functioning in small catchments can be more holistic without the persistent areas with a meadow type of functioning. Sub-vertical and inclined bedding of sedimentary rock layers distorts the dependence of hot spots on catchment area. The protective regime in the zonal steppe phytocoenoses stabilizes the dynamics of green phytomass.
Rare plants of the Voronezh region in ecosystems of Khrenovsky pine forest
Authors: Kin N O , Demchenko N Yu , Ryabtsov S N
Published: July 2021

To evaluate the environmental significance of Khrenovsky Bor isolated pine forest, we identified rare plant species in this area. We have been conducting floristic surveys for 10 years using route method. Herbarium specimens, literary and archival data were also analyzed. This allowed us to identify 850 species pertaining to 718 genera and 130 families in the forest area. The flora of Khrenovsky pine forest encompasses 5 plant species listed in the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation and 46 species in the Red Data Book of the Voronezh region. It accounts for 19.4% of all rare vascular plant species in the region. Most of the rare species are representatives of boreal, boreal-nemoral, nemoral, boreal-nemoral-forest-steppe latitude groups. This indicates high importance of the pine forest in conservation of rare species, and forest species make up the greater portion of them. One of the important results was the discovery of Elatine alsinastrum L. in the forest area. A proposal has been put forward to include this species in the rare taxa cadastre of the Voronezh Region and regional Red Data Book. We consider the possibility of giving the nature protection status to Khrenovsky Bor pine forest as a unique forest area, where rare plant species are preserved, and for some of them this forest area is the only habitat in the region.
The geographical analysis of the nature management structure in the steppe regions of European Russia
Authors: Kosykh P A , Petrishchev V P
Published: July 2021

Median models of the nature management structure of the municipal districts in the steppe zone of Russia are considered in the paper. A review of modern publications reflects special features of spatial models of nature management within the Russian Federation’s municipal districts. The clustering meaвthods (cluster groups) and geo-informational mapping are used as leading methods of geographical analysis. The method of B.B. Rodoman’s geocartoids (geographical carotids) is used to visualize the received data. A concept of space polarization and the inductive approach averaging geographical conditions and economic factors in the formation of the municipal economic structure lies on the base of the construction. The problem of the harmonious building of municipal nature management in Russia’s steppe zone is urgent due to the discrepancy of different conditions and processes. Six models of cluster groups of municipal districts in the steppe zone of Russia were built and described. Based on them, three averaged (median) models were received: urbanized (suburban), harmonious (landscape-adaptive), peripheral (homogeneous). The conceptual model of steppe nature management was offered. It reflects the priority of stable development of municipality and comfort for population residence with a necessity of spare nature management and steppe etalons’ conservation. The designs’ principal purpose is to secure spatial development schemes and general programs of settlements by scientifically grounded concepts of municipal development.
The Virgin Land megaproject and the Land reform as the global experiment of steppe self-restoration in North Eurasia
Authors: Levykin S V , Chibilev A A , Gulyanov Yu A , Chibilev A A , Kazachkov G V , Yakovlev I G , Nurushev M Zh
Published: July 2021

Among all agrarian-social megaprojects realized in the steppe zone, the Virgin Land [Tselina] (1954-1963) and the Land reform of the 1990s exerted the most considerable influence on the state and properties of current agro-landscapes. It was the projects of opposite orientation which every on its stage set the highest in history pace of the landscape dynamics in the steppe zone. The consistent impact of these megaprojects, one of which practically annihilated steppes, and the other created terms to realize steppe restoration potential, allows considering them in totality as the united experiment of the global scale for revealing and evaluation of steppe self-restoration. Thanks to this experiment in the steppes of Eurasia, new dynamic space – after virgin land was formed. Using new data, including field studies and discovered novel factors, we estimated the Virgin land campaign’s consequences and the Land reform. A further fundamental generalization of these megaprojects’ effects, landscape, and scientific heritage required developing an adaptation of steppe land use was conducted as a response to climatic and other current challenges.
Soil-genetic differences of multi-aged fallow lands in an ancient agricultural region of steppe Crimea
Authors: Lisetskii F N , Poletaev A O , Terekhin E A , Marinina O A
Published: July 2021

Since the beginning of the 21st century, the cultivated land located in the European part of Russia decreased, which resulted in the formation of a stable area of young fallows, presented both in forest and steppe zones. In the steppe, any cultivated areas with long agricultural history can open up opportunities for studying fallows in a wider chronological range and for assessing the rates of restoration of soil and plant cover. The aim of the study was to comparatively analyse the soils of fallow lands of different times near the ancient settlement of the NW Crimea and to identify relict and recent evidence of pedogenesis. Having analysed intra-horizon differences in geochemical parameters, it has been revealed that the lower layers of the humus horizon kept in soil memory the evidence of two centuries with a more arid climate (before the 1st c. AD). The indicators of such bioclimatic environment include higher content of Cl, Ca, S, As, P in post-agrogenic horizons. The study of recently ploughed fallows has resulted in the discovery of the phenomenon of heterogeneous horizons which retained agropedogenesis relics from agricultural pre-history (increased share of fulvic acids and content of the above-mentioned elements), but also acquired recent properties in the current bioclimatic environment.
Structural changes of the three-segment desert and steppe complex in Saratov Priuzenie area (based on Earth remote sensing data and ground-based observations)
Authors: Makarov V Z , Pichugina N V , Chumachenko A N , Gusev V A , Danilov V A , Fedorov A V , Nevryuev A M
Published: July 2021

Northern semi-desert with zapadinny microrelief area is located in the south of Saratov Oblast. Microrelief contributes to moisture redistribution and its accumulation in micro-depressions (swales, or Russian name “zapadines”) under conditions of extremely low precipitation (312 mm per year). This allows to form a specific surface, where micro-slopes with light chestnut soils (44.1%), micro-hills with solonetzs (37.5%) and micro-depressions with meadow chestnut soils (18.4%) coexist. Studies of the microcomplex semi-desert were carried out in Aleksandrovo-Gaysky district at the key site (100 × 100 m) in 2010 and 2020. The morphological structure of the landscape is preserved, but the quality of soil and vegetation cover has changed significantly. The projective cover of the herbaceous layer has decreased by 20-30%, the species diversity has significantly decreased as well. Herbaceous vegetation has almost disappeared in the micro-depressions, and the height of the spirea shrub has decreased from 1-1.4 m (2010) to 0.5-0.7 m (2020). Semi-desert landscapes are used for grazing cattle, sheep, goats and horses. The density of pasture trails on the key site was 0.11 m/square m in 2010, and 0.17 m/square m in 2020. The landscape area disturbed by livestock trails increased from 3% (2010) to 4.7% (2020) of the site area. The upper soil layer on trails is in a loose state to a depth of 4-6 cm. It is necessary to reduce pasture load, limit grazing time and take measures to organize the Priuzen semi-desert reserve to preserve microcomplex semi-desert landscapes.
Changes in the complex of rare and endangered mammals (Mammalia) in present-day Rostov Nature Reserve since the middle of the twentieth century
Authors: Minoranskiy V A , Tikhonov A V , Malinovskaya Yu V , Kilyakova V S
Published: July 2021

Under the influence of various factors, the ecosystems of dry steppes of Russia have undergone profound changes since the middle of the twentieth century. In the work dedicated to the territory occupied by the present-day Rostov Nature Reserve, the changes in mammals included in regional, federal and international Red Books (lists) and causes of these changes are reviewed. Until the 1950s, human use of steppes was limited due to scarcity of fresh water, which assured the preservation of natural xerophytic vegetation and associated fauna. Irrigation of steppes contributed to the intensive development of animal husbandry, restructuring of ecosystems with their biodiversity and the formation of anthropogenic deserts. To restore natural ecosystems, the Rostov Nature Reserve was created in 1996, and its activities made preservation of natural biodiversity possible. As a result of the deep restructuring of ecosystems, the modified biogeocenosis was very different from that in the mid-1950s of the XX century. Mammals typical for dry steppes in the past under the influence of various anthropogenic and natural causes considered in the article have become rare and endangered in present-day ecosystems. Intensification of economic activity in the twenty first century and climate warming increase the negative impact on steppe ecosystems and rare mammals. Possibilities for the conservation of rare and endangered mammals in the reserve are discussed.
Mineral and geochemical characteristics of soils and bottom sediments in the area affected by mining dumps (a case study of the Sibay ore deposit)
Authors: Opekunov A Yu , Opekunova M G , Janson S Yu , Bychinskii V A , Somov V V , Kukushkin S Yu , Papyan E E
Published: July 2021

The article focuses on the chemical composition of hydrosulfates formed in bottom sediments and soils as a consequence of sulfide minerals oxidation in mining waste rock dumps. An alkaline geochemical barrier formed under the dumps reduces pollution of natural-territorial complexes. High concentrations of Zn up to 1.29%, Cu-0.74%, and Cd-27.3 mg/kg are found in the hydrosulfates formed in the river bottom and in the soils. The percentages of exchangeable copper, zinc and cadmium in their total content are 33%, 28% and 22%, respectively. Metals are actively involved in lateral and radial migration, which is regulated by alkaline and evaporation geochemical barriers. The hydrosulfates’ mineralogical composition was studied using microscopy and thermodynamic modeling. Among the secondary minerals, gypsum and iron oxyhydroxides are of primary importance, and to a lesser extent barite, epsomite, and jarosite. Secondary minerals of Cu and Zn in scattering halos are not found, which indicates the leading role of adsorption processes in their phase transitions.
Floristic transformation of the steppe area in the lower reaches of the Osyotr River due to anthropogenic impact
Authors: Ozerova N A , Kuklina A G
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study was to survey the steppe site located on the right bank of the Osyotr River, near the village of Argunovo, in the urban district of Zaraysk, Moscow Region. It was required to analyze the key floristic changes that have occurred in its composition to date. For comparison, the floristic description of this site, detailed by R.I. Dyakova in the 1950s. The work takes into account the fact of man-made interference in the 1960s, as a result of limestone mining there in violation of the vegetation cover. In the autumn, 2020 the authors of this article studied a steppe site in the neighborhoods of the village of Argunovo in Zaraisk urban district of Moscow region and collected a herbarium donated to funds [MHA]. This steppe community was first discovered and described in detail by R.I. Dyakova in the 1950s. In the 20th century, due to the extraction of limestone in the lower reaches of the Osyotr River, this biotope was disturbed. It was established that over the past 70 years, the area occupied by the association with Stipa pennata L. and Geranium sanguineum L. significantly decreased and some steppe species disappeared. A factor in the transformation of the steppe cenosis was also cessation of grazing, which led to the appearance of a number of meadow-steppe species. The studied area near the village of Argunovo can be considered as a unique meadow-steppe reserve. It is located at the northern border of the forest-steppe zone and includes the elements of the Oka steppe flora that has preserved to this day. The populations of rare and protected species have been preserved: Stipa pennata, Aster amellus L., Campanula bononiensis L., Gentiana cruciata L., Rosa villosa L. and Pyrus communis L., included in the Red Data Book of Moscow Region. The studied area is potentially susceptible to the invasion of alien species (Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden, Acer negundo L.) and needs monitoring and protection at the level of the community, population and each species.
An assessment and prognosis of water resources use in regions of the transboundary basin of the Ural River in the medium term
Authors: Padalko Yu A
Published: July 2021

An assessment and medium-term prognosis of water resources use in the transboundary basin of the Ural River, and adjacent regions of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Kazakhstan were represented in the paper. Prediction of water consumption is one of the most significant water resources management tasks in the transboundary river basins. Under a water deficit of water resources in the Ural River basin in hydrological droughts, data on prospective water consumption allows estimating possible problems of regular water use and ways of their solution for neighboring states. Data on the dynamics of water consumption from 1995 to 2019 and materials of prognoses for socio-economic development of the region in the medium term were used to research and calculate expected water use values. Based on statistical methods, taking into account parameters scheduled of the dynamics of the population and economic development in the regions, we calculated prospective volumes of water resources use in the Ural River basin areas. Projection of water resources’ use is represented in several scenarios following prognoses of socio-economic development in the regions. As a result, the structural forecasts were worked out according to a type of water consumption: domestic and utility, industrial, irrigation, and agricultural water use for each region of neighboring countries by 2024.
Biological Resources to reproduce Arable Soils Fertility in the Old-cultivated Regions of Kazakhstan
Authors: Pashkov S V , Martsinevskaya L V
Published: July 2021

The article examines the preconditions for the use of local biological resources in farming agriculture of the North Kazakhstan Region. Wild land reclamation in the central and southern regions has resulted in enhanced extensive nature of farming agriculture in the region which is due to the low agronomic standards and difficult soil and climatic conditions. An increased share of soil-depleting crops in the post-Soviet period aggravated both arable soils dehumification and excessive nutrients removal. Using the statistics provided by the Department of Agriculture and Land Relations, statistical analysis method and generally accepted procedures we have determined the annual volumes of bedding manure, poultry droppings and straw. In addition, we have analyzed the reserves of local agronomic ore, i.e. sapropel, which is the most valuable multicomponent organic raw material with long-term effect. It has been established that the volume of generated biological resources to be used as fertilizers exceeds 17 million tons which can potentially replenish the annual removal of 15% of humus, 39% of nitrogen, 53% of phosphorus, and 57% of potassium taken from fields with harvested crops and erosion products.
Spatial and temporal trends of atmospheric humidification in the steppe part of the Trans-Volga-Ural region
Authors: Pavleichik V M , Yazykbaev E R
Published: July 2021

The results of the regional climate change research on the example of the Volga-Ural steppe region are presented. Spatial and temporal patterns in the long-term (1960-2020) dynamics of atmospheric humidification are analyzed. It was revealed that the long phase with increased precipitation, which lasted in the region from about 1980 to 2010, was replaced everywhere by a clearly represented dry phase, especially in the Southern Urals and the Trans-Urals. There is also an intra-annual redistribution of precipitation for all weather stations (an increase in the share of the cold period precipitation and a decrease in the warm period rainfall), which leads to the levelling of humidification conditions. Speaking about the calendar months, the transformation of atmospheric humidification for separate periods of 1960-2020 at weather stations is quite multidirectional. The transformation of atmospheric humidification conditions occurs at the background of significant changes in the temperature regime: there is an increase in average annual indicators everywhere (on average by 1°C over 40 years) and average monthly temperatures in the first half of the year (from January to May). It is stated that against the air temperature background, changes in the humidification parameters can lead to the necessity of adapting various types of steppe environmental management to changing weather and climatic conditions.
The salt-dome landscape genesis: paradoxes of rational nature management
Authors: Petrishchev V P
Published: July 2021

The paper considers regional peculiarities of the use of natural resource potential of landscape geosystems formed in the course of halokinesis. Parameters of stability of salt-dome geosystems to anthropogenic influence resulting from the interaction of geodynamic processes and physical-geographical conditions are estimated. A method to evaluate the stability of landscape geosystems formed by salt-dome processes to anthropogenic transformation is offered. Accounting of volume of underground natural resources management connected, mainly, with salt rock extraction is significant. Excess of the total square of all forms of nature management under an area of the landscape geosystem formed by salt diapir, represented as the coefficient of nature management (CNM), acts as trigger risk. There are regularities of transforming the natural management structure in the regional models on the examples of basins: the Caspian-Cis-Urals, Trans-Carpathian, the Catalan, and Mexican. Within landscape geosystems having a salt-dome origin, the indicator of the coefficient of nature management can show as balanced geosystems, despite the development of subsurface resource management (Avery Island) or being in crisis geoecological situation (Iletskiy dome), so experienced anthropogenic catastrophes of different types (Jefferson Island, the Solotvinskiy dome). Principals of safe subsurface resource management and rational recreational-touristic use within salt structures of open kinds were developed.
The cryogenic structure and texture of seasonally freezing soil in the steppe zone of the Trans-Volga-Urals region
Authors: Polyakov D G , Ryabukha A G , Kovda I V
Published: July 2021

The formation of ice lenses and associated frost heave were found in soils the steppe environment with positive mean annual air temperature. The ice lenses due to soil freezing occur in soils with expressed microrelief when they have additional ground moistening. In soils formed on quaternary loam with shallow groundwater the formation of ice was not differentiated across the microrelief; the morphology of the microrelief is similar to thufur. Soils formed on fine-dispersed limestone (chalky polygons) and on the material of ancient weathering crust (frost mounds) do not have clear evidence of subsoil extramoisterning exhibit the differentiated formation of cryotexture according to microrelief. The ice lenses were found in soils of microhights. The formation of cryogenic lenticular and platy structures occur after to the melting of ice lenses in soils. Local frost heave in steppe soils determines the small-scale differentiation of soil processes and the formation of the complex soil cover.
Grasshoppers in steppe areas of the south-eastern West Siberian Plain: Centennial transformations of biodiversity
Authors: Popova K V , Molodtsov V V , Efremova O V , Sergeev MG
Published: July 2021

The goal of this paper is to evaluate some general trends of species range shifts in the steppe areas of the south-eastern West Siberian Plain. Two sets of distribution data of grasshoppers are compared: (1) for the first half of 20th century and (2) for 1972 – 2019. A series of digital maps was generated by Map Info. Shifts of species distribution patterns are discussed. All grasshopper species may be split into three groups: (1) acridids without evident changes in their distribution; (2) species with local range boundaries shifted northwards and northeastwards; new colonies of such forms are usually found in the northern steppe and even in the forest-steppe and/or on the right side of the Ob River; (3) grasshoppers which became rare. Among them is the Siberian grasshopper, the very common pest in the first half of the 20th

century. Some changes into grasshopper distribution may be associated with global warming, but others can be explained by regional and local variations in human activities. Extension, intensification, and changes of human activities may result in continuous elimination of some local populations. This means that the general strategy of management of acridid assemblages and populations should incorporate both data and technologies concerning rare species populations and new approaches to pest control and monitoring.