Естественные науки. Рубрика в журнале - Бюллетень науки и практики
Energy Efficiency in Baku as a way to Reduce Emissions
Статья научная
Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, as the country’s economic, industrial, and transportation hub, accounts for a significant share of greenhouse gas emissions. According to statistical data, approximately 40% of the country’s annual carbon emissions originate from Baku, posing substantial challenges to the city’s prospects for climate-resilient development. In recent years, the rate of CO₂ emissions in the country has been notable: between 2020 and 2023, emissions increased from 34,305 kilotons to 42,766 kilotons, representing an approximate 25% rise. Graphical projections indicate that if the current growth trend continues, national CO₂ emissions could reach 49,703 kilotons by the end of 2025. This increase is closely linked to the city’s energy consumption, industrial activity, and the sustainability of its transportation infrastructure. In the 21st century, climate change has emerged as one of the most critical environmental and social challenges on a global scale. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions resulting from human activities, particularly in the industrial, energy, and transportation sectors, are accelerating global warming. Cities, especially rapidly urbanizing regions, play a central role in this process, as high energy consumption, dense transportation flows, and intensive industrial activities constitute the main sources of carbon emissions. In this context, Baku’s transition to a climate-resilient urban model depends heavily on the implementation of energy efficiency measures. Enhancing building insulation systems, switching to LED lighting, applying smart thermostats, deploying electric buses, and integrating renewable energy technologies not only reduce energy consumption but also minimize greenhouse gas emissions. Mathematical models indicate that even a 3–5% annual reduction in energy use can result in significant CO₂ emission savings. This paper discusses the implementation of energy efficiency measures in Baku, their potential for emission reduction, and strategic directions for the city’s climate adaptation. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of strengthening energy policies and investing in renewable energy technologies based on projected CO₂ levels.
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Статья научная
This paper considers the ecological condition of Khojasan Lake on the Absheron Peninsula by drawing together available monitoring data and technical reports that describe recent changes in the lake’s water quality. A multi-parameter monitoring programme was implemented in 2023–2025, covering 41 physicochemical and hydrochemical indicators measured at three water depths. The analysis reflects how long-standing industrial use of the territory, rapid urban expansion, and alterations of natural drainage systems have shaped the current hydrochemical profile of the lake. The discussion focuses on several groups of indicators that are commonly applied in environmental assessments—salinity, nutrient enrichment, organic load, and suspended matter—because they provide the clearest picture of ongoing degradation processes. In parallel, the paper reviews technological options that have been proposed for improving water quality in arid and semi-arid regions, with particular attention to solar-powered treatment units, modified filtration systems, and low-maintenance monitoring devices suitable for continuous observation. A pilot MMF unit supplied by a photovoltaic array was operated under real field conditions. The treatment demonstrated substantial improvements in key performance metrics, including marked decreases in turbidity, chemical oxygen demand, and biochemical oxygen demand, and notable reductions in dissolved metals such as iron, manganese, zinc, and others. Bringing these strands together makes it possible to identify the pressures that are most influential for Khojasan Lake today and to outline practical directions for future monitoring and management. The material is intended to serve as a consolidated reference for specialists involved in the restoration of inland water bodies on the Absheron Peninsula.
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Factors Influencing the Decline of Biodiversity in Azerbaijan
Статья научная
The natural vegetation and its flora of Azerbaijan are exposed to anthropogenic influences, leading to a decrease in the number of a number of valuable plant individuals or their complete destruction. The main result of the factors affecting the reduction of biodiversity in Azerbaijan is the disruption of the ecological balance of the country, which threatens rare and endemic species. As a result of the reduction of biodiversity, the ecosystems of Azerbaijan are weakened and rare species are at risk of extinction. The sustainability of natural resources and the environment is seriously threatened. As a result of the disruption of ecosystem stability, the ability of local populations to use natural resources is limited and the resilience of ecosystems to climate change is reduced.
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Fish Biomarkers in the Ecological Assessment of the Shahagachi Coast (Caspian Sea)
Статья научная
This study assessed the ecological status of the Shahagachi coastal area (Azerbaijan, Caspian Sea) using fish as bioindicators. The study was conducted on 16 specimens of mullet (Liza saliens) and 15 specimens of kutum (Rutilus frisii kutum). A comprehensive approach was employed to evaluate the condition of the fish, including a genotoxic analysis based on nuclear aberrations in erythrocytes and a histopathological analysis of the gills. The genotoxic analysis revealed pathologies in fish erythrocytes such as nuclear deformation, invagination, and displacement, and in some cases, micronuclei. However, the level of detected pathological cells in the blood of mullet (1.65±0.06%) and kutum (2.12±0.18%) remained within the physiological reference range (<5%). Histological examination of the gills of both species showed protective and adaptive changes, such as hyperplasia, curvature, and fusion of secondary lamellae, and an uneven distribution of secondary lamellar hyperplasia; parasitic infestations were also detected. An integrated assessment of the results indicated that the studied fish populations are experiencing a state of mild physiological stress. It was concluded that the environmental conditions in the Shahagachi area, while not causing critical damage, create unfavorable background conditions for aquatic organisms, which underscores the need for further monitoring to prevent ecosystem degradation.
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Статья научная
In modern times, the study of biodiversity in the context of global climate change is becoming more and more important. The study area is the Batabat Plateau, located in the north of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, on the southern slope of the Zangezur Range. The area surrounded by the Zangezur and Daralayaz ranges has such geographical conditions that the air humidity is below normal for most of the year. Only in the summer months does the humidity increase relatively. Due to the flow of moist air entering the area through the Bichanak pass, which is a low area of the Zangezur range, the humidity of the air is relatively high, which is very important in the formation of vegetation. As a result of our research, it was found that 968 species of plants belonging to 58 families and 344 genera can be found in the flora of the Batabat plateau, and the flora spectrum of the area was prepared by us. The species of plants distributed in the Batabat plateau were analyzed according to their life forms and useful properties, and it was found that the plant groups formed by these species contain a quantity of technical medicines, fruits and berries, and other useful products that will provide a number of industries (food, medicine, perfumery, etc.). Plant groups have abundant natural resources, which are used effectively.
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Статья научная
The study of the Salicaceae Mirb. species common in the flora of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic was conducted and their floristic analysis was performed. In the flora of the autonomous republic, 17 Salicaceae species belonging to 2 genera were identified, 9 species were assigned to the genus Salix L., and 8 species to the genus Populus L. Types of areas: boreal areal type (7 species), xerophilous areal type (4 species), Caucasian areal type (4 species) and desert areal type (1 species). The areal type was not determined for one species. This family is of great interest both in terms of biological diversity and ecological significance. It was established that the greatest species diversity of the family is found in the middle mountain zone, and a small part is found in the low and middle mountain zones, as well as in the subalpine zone. At present, the issues of adjusting botanical-geographical and historical plant systems, analyzing the distribution and genesis of species, and clarifying typical ranges are extremely important.
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Статья научная
Hawthorn (Crataegus) is a plant consisting of various species of thorny shrubs or small trees belonging to the Rosaceae family. The genus Hawthorn (Crataegus L.) has 20 species in the flora of Azerbaijan and 20 species in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic: Crataegus pontica C.Koch., Crataegus orientalis Pall. ex Bieb., Crataegus meyeri Pojark., Crataegus szowitsii Pojark., Crataegus pentagyna Waldst. & Kit., Crataegus pseudoheterophylla Pojark., Crataegus cinovski Kassymova., Crataegus sanguinea Pall., Crataegus curvisepala Lindm., Crataegus caucasica C. Koch. Hawthorn species are found in various ecological zones, including mountainous, flat and semi-desert areas. The climatic conditions of each region affect the phenological stages of plant development. In the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, hawthorn is found in almost all altitude zones (800-2500 m). The greatest amplitude of distribution belongs to the species Crataegus orientalis. It is found in areas from the foothill zone to the subalpine zone (900-2250 m). In the middle zone, the species C. cinovskisii, C. szovitsii, C. Tournefortii, C. pojarkoviae and C. pontica are predominantly common. However, in some cases, the distribution zone of the species C. pontica goes down, and the species C. pojarkoviae rises to the high-mountain zone. The species Crataegus caucasica, C. rhipidophylla, C. pseudoheterophylla and C. zangezura are found almost from the low-mountain zone to the subalpine zone, and the species C. atrosanguinea and C. eriantha are found in the low-mountain and middle-mountain zone. The distribution zone of the species C. meyeri sometimes reaches an altitude of 2350 m. The flower lump of the hawthorn species, which is used as a food and medicinal plant, is used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and to regulate heart rhythm. Ripe fruits are also useful for lowering blood pressure in folk medicine. The fruits and flowers of hawthorn are used in medicine to treat cardiovascular diseases, circulatory problems and high blood pressure. The plant is rich in flavonoids, antioxidants and tannins, so it strengthens the immune system and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Hawthorn is also used as an ornamental plant.
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Статья научная
In the period from 2017 to 2022, ciliated protozoa and testate amoebae were studied in freshwater ecosystems of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. 110 species of ciliates and 65 species of amoebae were identified. The species diversity of ciliates in freshwater is almost twice as high as in soil. The differences in species diversity between aquatic and soil amoebae are relatively small. The need for standardization of the methods used by researchers is emphasized. Further studies of these groups of protozoa are necessary to obtain more accurate conclusions about their ecological role, relationships, and their importance in various biological processes.
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Genetic characteristics of honey bee breeding in the Ganja-Gazakh region of Azerbaijan
Статья научная
Beekeeping is one of the oldest and most profitable sectors of agriculture. Since ancient times, humans have bred, propagated, and maintained honey bees ( Apis mellifera L.). The favorable soil and climatic conditions, along with the rich flora of Azerbaijan, create an ideal environment for the development of beekeeping. One of the challenges in bee breeding research is that honey bees mate in the air, often at considerable distances from their colonies. This complicates controlled breeding efforts. To address this issue, selection specialists are exploring artificial insemination techniques and the establishment of controlled mating zones. This article examines the development of beekeeping in Azerbaijan, with a particular focus on honey production in the Western region. Additionally, it explores the most effective modern approaches to bee breeding, especially in the context of increasing resistance to adverse environmental factors, which has become a critical priority in contemporary apiculture.
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Статья научная
The distribution of 176 plant species belonging to 27 families and 75 genera in the wild flora of the area was determined during the research conducted in Yevlakh district area in 2023-2025. A flora conspectus, identified during the research, was developed for the species, which included the taxonomic structure, life forms, geographical and areal types, ecological groups and endemism of the area’s flora. It was found that the Poaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Cyperaceae, Salicaceae, Polygonaceae and Rosaceae families are represented by more species in the area. The research also determined the species composition and structural characteristics of the phytocenoses found in the vegatation cover of Yevlakh district, revealing that the area’s flora includes desert, semi-desert, meadow, forest, swamp and other plant types. It was determined that recent global ecological problems, including anthropogenic factors, have a direct impact on the flora and vegetation of the area. In this regard, studying the geographical analysis of the current state of the flora in the territory of Yevlakh district creates the need for future geobotanical or phytosociological research within the area. This shows that the ongoing work is highly relevant.
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Human anthropometric indicators for the preparation of simulation models
Статья научная
Normal human anthropometric parameters are used in the development of medical rehabilitation techniques, in the performance of surgical techniques used for normal human functioning. In order to perform these operations successfully, it is necessary to model normal human physical characteristics and, based on these models, perform the operations correctly. Normal anatomical characteristics have a positive effect on the physiological state of the person. The relevance of the research stimulates the development of the science of valeology and increases the relevance and practical significance of the topic. Prosthetics of organs lost in wars and accidents are also performed on the basis of computer models. The science of digital anthropology is modeling human anthropometrics, and practically important predictions are being made based on this modeling. Digital anthropology is based on the research of modern technology to compile a database of the most diverse anthropological indicators of people. Anthropology occupies a special place in the system of scientific knowledge about the world, because it is a field of science that studies the origin, development and role of humans in nature and society. In modern medicine, mathematical and graphic modeling of human anatomical and anthropological indicators is required in all fields. Anthropometric indicators of humans are taken as the basis in surgery, military science, sports. The structure of shoulders, diaphragm, hips, face, and the age of a human being can also be defined by these anthropometric indicators.
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Impact of genetically modified organisms on human health
Статья научная
Investigates the impact of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on human health. It is noted that the use of GMOs is increasing yearly worldwide. While gene technology, which has entered our lives through the creation of genetically modified organisms, shows benefits, it also presents certain challenges. These challenges include negative impacts on distribution and balance, toxic effects on plants, difficulties in fighting pathogens due to the development of antibiotic-resistant genes, gene transfers, and an increased risk of allergic reactions due to GMOs, all of which raise relevant questions about genetically modified organisms. It is highlighted that in recent years, biotechnology and the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) developed through biotechnological research methods are among the topics of most interest worldwide. Based on the information obtained from the research, the article explores the potential benefits, harms, and risks of genetically modified organisms, their effects on biodiversity, socioeconomic and legal dimensions, as well as consumer perspectives. In conclusion, it is stated that since the opinions of scientists around the world about the benefits and harms of GMO products are not unanimous, it would be more appropriate to consider the favorable natural conditions in our country for the cultivation of agricultural products and use ecologically clean food products.
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Investigation of the Possibility of Developing Natural Remedies Based on Mud Volcano Products
Статья научная
Volcanic mud has long been the focus of scientific interest as a natural therapeutic agent. Its composition includes microelements and organic components such as syngenetic bitumen, resins, asphaltenes, humic substances, certain enzymes, and fulvic acids. Scientific studies have confirmed the presence of bactericidal substances and other biologically active compounds in the mud samples that may exert beneficial effects on the human body during treatment. Research findings indicate that the organic composition of volcanic mud shares similarities with the therapeutic properties of White Naftalan oil. As part of the study, the elemental and phase composition of breccia mud obtained from the Pirekeshkul mud volcano was analyzed. It was established that the mud does not contain components harmful to human health. This suggests that the specified volcanic mud is suitable for use in the formulation of cosmetic products. During experimental procedures, various cosmetic ointments were developed using breccia mud from the volcano in combination with White Naftalan oil and plant-derived essential oils, as well as compositions of essential oils with T-46 oil. Research findings revealed that the oxygen present in the samples existed primarily in the form of oxides.
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Medicinal plants containing anthracene
Статья научная
Various types of phytochemicals are present in plant parts such as bark, stem, roots, and other plant components. The distribution, chemical composition, and use of anthracene derivative-containing plants growing in Azerbaijan were investigated. Anthraquinones can be used as agents that have an active effect against malignant tumors and stimulate immunity against new malignant derivatives. Oxy- and oxymethylanthraquinones of fennel have antispasmodic and diuretic effects, and the content of calcium and magnesium phosphates in them ensures the fragmentation and removal of urinary stones from the body. Methyloxyanthraquinone derivatives are present in the bark, leaves, shoots, and fruits of Rhamnus cathartica. Freshly picked pods contain anthraglycoside frangulioriside, which oxidizes and turns into glucofrangulin when stored in pods for 1 year. Rhubarb root and its extracts have a laxative effect, increasing intestinal peristalsis. Aloe is used for skin care.
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Microbiological Investigation of the Transboundary Rivers of the Eastern Zangezur Economic Region
Статья научная
The article presents the results of research conducted on water and sediment samples collected from transboundary rivers located in the Eastern Zangezur economic region of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Microbiological and physicochemical analyses were carried out on the samples, revealing that temperature varied seasonally between 6.8–27°C, pH ranged from 7.7 to 10.5, and dissolved oxygen levels ranged from 5.6 to 8.5 mg/L. Among the biogenic elements, the concentrations of nitrate (NO₃⁻) and phosphate (PO₄³⁻) exceeded permissible limits. Among the heavy metals, the amount of molybdenum (Mo) was found to be above acceptable levels. These findings indicate that the rivers are exposed to pollution from industrial and agricultural sources. Microbiological analyses revealed a high concentration of saprotrophic bacteria, as well as aerobic and anaerobic bacteria involved in the nitrogen cycle. In all the studied rivers, oil- and phenol-degrading bacteria were also detected. Additionally, bacteria of the genera Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Shigella, which are indicators of fecal contamination, were found. The results provide important insights into the ecological condition of the studied water bodies and hold both scientific and practical significance for the protection of water resources in these areas.
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Статья научная
Both cultivated and wild fodder plants are the main group of plants necessary for the development of animal husbandry. Although it is impossible to give a specific number about the number of species of fodder plants in Azerbaijan, there is no doubt that their number of species is expressed in hundreds. Thus, the number of species of annual grasses in the CIS includes up to 1000 species. As it is known, some species mentioned above as fodder plants also carry other qualities. For example, corn, sunflower, wormwood, three-leaf clover, etc. plants are also medicinal plants and are used as diuretics, pain relievers, etc. in folk medicine. It is widely used as a tool with properties. At the same time, due to these properties, these plants have become the subject of various aspects (botanical, pharmacological, mycological, etc.) studies, and this situation is still ongoing.
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Статья научная
Extraction of essential oil of Thymus vulgaris L. and analysis of its chemical composition were carried out. Samples of Thymus vulgaris L., widespread in the mountainous regions of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, were collected. After drying the obtained plant samples, the essential oil was obtained in laboratory conditions by hydrodistillation. The component composition of the obtained essential oil of Thymus vulgaris L. was analyzed using gas-liquid chromatography. Based on the results, it was found that the essential oil of Thymus vulgaris L. contains α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, carene, linal, caryophyllene, terpinene, citronellol, N,N-dimethylacetamide, alpha-terpineol, estragole, camphene, myrtenol, nerol, geraniol, camphor, citronellyl butyrate, alpha-terpenyl acetate, geranyl oleate, geranyl acetate, cedrol, thymol. The essential oil of Thymus vulgaris L. has high chemical quality. The essential oil has the potential for use in pharmacology and cosmetology due to its antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
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Статья научная
The article presents data on the species belonging to the subfamily Ennominae (Geometridae) collected in the Greater Caucasus region within Azerbaijan. The distribution areas of 28 species belonging to 18 genera (Abraxas - 1 species, Ligadia - 1 species, Colotois - 1 species, Erannis - 1 species, Ennomos - 2 species, Semiothisa - 4 species, Thefrina - 2 species, Cabera - 2 species, Zamacra - 1 species, Gnophos - 2 species, Triphosa - 1 species, Emarturgia - 1 species, Selenio - 2 species, Campaeo - 1 species, Elicrinia - 1 species, Opistograptis - 1 species, Calospilos - 2 species) from the subfamily Ennominae of the family (Geometridae) of the Greater Caucasus were noted. Representatives of the subfamily Ennominae (Geometridae) were first noted for the Azerbaijani part of the Greater Caucasus region.
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Physiological characteristics study of normalization of carbohydrates in food rations
Статья научная
Carbohydrates are organic substances with high energy, enter the body with food and satisfy the various needs of the human body. They enter the body mainly with plant products and are the most important source of energy. Approximately half (56-58%) of the energy needed by the body is provided by carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Here, the relationship between hydrogen and oxygen is the same as in water molecules. That is why they are called carbohydrates. During physical labor, the need for carbohydrates increases. They are also involved in plastic forming processes. Carbohydrates increase the amount of glucose in the blood and increase the amount of glycogen in the liver and muscles, being included in the composition of cells and tissues. Glucose is converted into reserve carbohydrates - glycogen, which is an energy reserve that serves to maintain the level of sugar in the blood at a normal level and ensures the stable functioning of all organ systems.
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Статья научная
Discusses the participation of representatives of the Brassicaceae Burnett. family in the spring flora of the lowland areas of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, using the road leading to the Julfa district as an example. The study provides information on species belonging to the genera Arabidopsis (DC.) Heynh. and Camelina Crantz within this family. Specifically, the species Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. and Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz were identified along the road to Julfa. Data on the phytocoenosis formed by these species and its species composition are presented in tabular form. The study investigates the family, genus, life form, and ecological group of the species forming the phytocoenosis.
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