The fifth article in the series summarizes the results of genetic analysis of 7 varieties of tobacco of the Samsun oriental variety type and their diallel hybrids for the yield of dry leaves. The trait inheritance in F1 is most characterized by an intermediate type, the determination and growth of which is realized primarily by additive genes with a recessive nature. These give rise to deviations between yield indicators and the effects of GCA. A new tactic has been developed for selecting promising starting materials and selecting for the combination of genes in genotypes that control moderate yield and high aromaticity of raw materials. For this purpose, the following varieties have been proposed: Samsun 47, Samsun 36, Samsun Bafra, and Samsun Maden, and universal hybrids Samsun 47xSamsun Bafra and Samsun 36xSamsun Bafra which are valuable both for heterosis and breeding. CMS analogues of maternal forms make it possible to organize hybrid seed production. Analyses of genetic correlations allow us to draw the most important conclusion about the reality of the combination in the genotypes of selected forms of moderate yield and high-quality raw materials by intensifying the photosynthetic apparatus. A new principle of selection in population has been developed: selection should be carried out according to the type of leaf of the aromatic variety Samsun Bafra, and to the rate of leaf formation productive varieties Samsun 36 and Samsun 47.

The research aimed to investigate the effect of processing on the antioxidant activity and phenolic content of Armenian flaxseeds. This is crucial for understanding their potential health benefits. For laboratory investigations, six flaxseed samples were germinated with different durations (24 h, 48 h, and 72 h) and three of these samples were also heat treated (100 0 C with a duration of 30-40 min). As part of the experiment, ungerminated samples and unheated samples were also tested to compare outcomes. All samples of flaxseeds were analyzed for antioxidant activity using the FRAP (Ferric-Reduced Antioxidant Power) method. The total phenolic content (TPC) was determined using the “Folin Ciocalteu” reagent, with gallic acid as a standard. The obtained results highlight the significant role of processing techniques in determining flaxseed antioxidative activity. Specifically, longer germination periods, notably 72 hours without heat treatment, exhibited antioxidant activity and phenolic content. This contrasted with decreased levels in heat-treated samples. By incorporating flaxseeds, particularly those germinated for extended durations and without heat treatment, into diets, individuals may enhance antioxidant intake. These findings support the development of innovative functional food products aimed at mitigating chronic diseases. Overall, the study contributes valuable insights into the nutritional significance of flaxseeds and emphasizes their potential as functional food components. This fosters advancements in health-promoting dietary practices and product development.

The research aimed to identify latent mastitis in cows on farms in the Republic of Armenia by counting somatic cells in milk using the California method. Among the 170 animals examined, 60 had latent mastitis, which comprised 35.2 % of the population. The highest incidence was observed in the Vayoc Dzor region (50 %), while the lowest was found in the Sunik region (25 %). It was found that 40 animals (23.5 %) showed a pronounced reaction to mastitis, and the concentration of somatic cells in milk was 300-500 thousand/sm3. 20 animals demonstrated a positive reaction to the test (11.7 %), and the number of somatic cells in milk exceeded 500 thousand/sm3. A microbiological study of milk from animals with subclinical mastitis was conducted to determine the species composition of pathogenic microflora. The study indicated that the milk was highly contaminated with staphylococcus, streptococcus, corynebacterial, E. coli, mycoplasma, candida, etc. A rise in leukocytes was observed in the blood of sick animals, as well as increases in band neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, and ESRs. All this indicates, there is an inflammatory process present in the body and the immune system is mobilizing to fight pathology.

Organic agriculture plays a vital role in promoting environmental sustainability and safeguarding public health by minimizing the use of synthetic chemicals and preserving soil fertility. Biofertilizers, as integral components of organic farming practices, offer a natural and eco-friendly alternative to conventional fertilizers. By harnessing the power of beneficial microorganisms, biofertilizers enrich the soil with essential nutrients, improve soil structure, and enhance plant growth. The Republic›s organic agricultural sector is witnessing a steady expansion, emerging as one of agriculture’s swiftest-growing domains. Biological fertilizers, widely employed in organic farming, are currently experiencing significant demand among farmers. The study scrutinized the impact of the indigenous Armenian biofertilizer “Green Mix” on the bio-morphological and biochemical parameters of bell pepper varieties Loshtak, and Hayk. The findings underscored the substantial benefits of the “Green Mix” biofertilizer, evidencing enhanced growth and development processes alongside improved quality metrics of fruits and seeds. Notably, applying “Green Mix” resulted in heightened yield, subsequently bolstering profitability levels. This research highlights the pivotal role of innovative biofertilizers in augmenting agricultural productivity while fostering sustainability practices. As organic farming continues gaining traction, such localized solutions promise to advance agricultural practices in the Republic of Armenia.

Brucellosis, a bacterial disease caused by the genus Brucella, is a zoonotic and occupational disease. A high risk of infection with Brucella is associated with the workplace. Infection may occur by inhalation, conjunctival or skin contamination, accidental injury with a syringe, or exposure in a slaughterhouse or food processing facility. This study delves into Brucellosis, a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by Brucella, focusing on occupational exposure among slaughterhouse workers and food processors in Armenia. The research assesses the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of 306 participants, including 18 slaughterhouse workers and 288 food processors (76 meat and 212 milk employees). Despite universal awareness (100 %) of Brucellosis risk, the study uncovers potential shortcomings in workplace practices, notably in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), as 43.9 % of respondents wash their working clothes at home. The findings underscore the need for ongoing education and remediation efforts to enhance safety measures and also emphasize the imperative of addressing these issues within at-risk groups in Armenia.

Research works demonstrate a rising demand for high-quality wine in Armenia. Our objective was to produce premium red and rosé wines using the relatively unexplored grape variety “Hastakot”. Throughout the research, we utilized various winemaking technologies to produce red and rosé wines of the grape variety “Hastakot”. Simultaneously, multiple physicochemical and sensory attributes were investigated in the produced must and wine. The obtained results highlight the ability to make unique wines from the grape variety “Hastakot”, indicating a potential market impact and gaining consumer appreciation.

In 2021-2022, a study of herbivorous (phytophagous) mite habitation and harmfulness was conducted in apple and plum orchards in the Armavir region (RA). Research findings of two-year scientific experiments confirmed that between the two apple varieties the Star Crimson variety had the highest habitation rate of Hawthorn Red Spider Mite (Tetranychus viennensis Zacher), specifically 52.7 % in the first year, and 55.5 % in the second year. Among the three plum varieties, Vengerka Italian had the highest habitation rate (49.5 and 53.2 %, respectively) of common spider mites (Tetranychus urticae Koch). Research findings also confirm that at the peak of leaf damage, compared to the Golden Delicious apple variety, the damage caused by Hawthorn Red Spider Mite to the leaves of the Star Crimson apple variety was high in 2021-2022 (43.5 % and 45.0 % respectively). There was relatively high damage caused by Hawthorn Red Spider Mite to the “Vengerka Italian” variety in 2021 and 2022 (39.9 % and 41.0 %, respectively). Effective control measures against phytophagous mites with high habitation in apple and plum orchards will be developed and offered to farmers.

With the development of viticulture in recent years, vineyard areas have increased and the demand for orchards with local varieties has grown. Propagation by cuttings is the most common method of grape propagation. The influence of growth regulators (zircon, heteroauxin, and kornevin) on the rooting, growth, and ripening of hardwood cuttings of grape varieties Voskehat, Garan Dmak, and Tozot was studied. The study shows that the use of growth regulators positively affects the growth and development of cuttings, strengthens roots, increases rooting, and promotes the growth and development of surface organs Among the regulators used, the best results were shown by growth stimulants heteroauxin and zircon. These stimulants can be used to ensure the high survival rates of less common varieties.

The research was carried out in the administrative area of Yernjatap settlement, Aragatsotn marz, Aparan region, RA. This was at an altitude of 1850 m above sea level. Soil studies were conducted on about 1 hectare of arable land. The area is located in the steppe land zone. It was planned to investigate the shallow tillage (disking) in preventing degradation processes and increasing the efficiency of cultivated land in the investigated land area. For this purpose, field and laboratory analyses were carried out to study the soil quality characteristics. Soil sections were placed at the experimental sites. The percentage of humus content, mechanical composition, amount of water-soluble salts, soil reaction (pH), and provision of macronutrients in the soil samples were given according to the depth of each soil section. As a result of using traditional and shallow soil tillage methods, the agrophysical and agrochemical properties of the studied soils were revealed.

Latent mastitis harms the health of animals, their milk production, and the quality of milk. In cows affected by this disease sharp changes in hematological parameters, and biochemical parameters of blood and milk, which is the focus of our research. This work studies the morphological and biochemical parameters of blood and the biochemical parameters of milk in dairy cows affected by latent mastitis. The research was performed in several farms and farm households of Kotayk and Ararat regions, as well as in the ANAU Research Center of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Sanitary laboratories. The research outcomes prove that latent mastitis significantly impacts the composition of blood and milk components. Data obtained during the research enables a better understanding of the causes of mastitis as well as the necessity of using informative diagnostic methods in farm veterinarians’ practices.