[Characteristics of the spatial and biocenotic structure of the Transural steppe plague reservoir].

In the trans-Uralian steppe focus, the manifestations of plague are characterized by a cyclical pattern. Nine epizooties, each lasting 1 to 16 years, were identified in this region in 1913 to 1992. The interepizootic periods varied from 1-3 to 17 years.

[The effect of trace elements on the infectious process in plague in an experiment].

The influence of Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn on experimental Yersinia pestis infection in three species of gerbils (Rhombomys opimus, Meriones meridianus, M. tamariscinus) under conditions, imitating natural biogeochemical anomalies, was studied. The addition of Co and Ni to the fodder given to the animals for the period of 2-4 weeks prior to infection aggravated the course of infection.