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Transformer oil is widely used in power oil-filled electrical equipment, which is an insulating and diagnostic medium. During the operation of power transformers, its operational and dielectric properties deteriorate. To increase the operating time of transformer oil, it is inhibited by an antioxidant additive, which is most often used as ionol and the ionol concentration must be constantly monitored. This control is carried out by chromatographic methods. The main problem of controlling the antioxidant additive in transformer oil is its extraction with organic extractants, which are ethyl alcohol, which contains water, which has a negative effect on the extraction process. Thus, a search for more effective extractants for the extraction of ionol from transformer oil was undertaken. The retention characteristics of individual organic extractants and antioxidant additives were determined by the method of high-performance gas-liquid chromatography using a quartz capillary column and an automated system for dosing a sample into the chromatograph under various experimental conditions. Both the isothermal mode of the experiment and under linear programming conditions of the chromatographic column have been used. The dependence of the retention characteristics of organic extractants and ionol on the temperature of analysis was established, which has a linear form.

Introduction: Hydatidosis is one of the most critical parasitic zoonotic diseases worldwide. Lungs are the second most common site of the disease. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical presentation, diagnosis, radiological findings, surgical treatment and post-operative complications of pulmonary hydatid cyst in patients referred to the Second Surgery Clinic at St George University Hospital in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Materials and methods: From January 2014 to December 2022, 69 patients were operated on due to pulmonary hydatidosis in the Clinic of Thoracic and Abdominal Surgery at St George University Hospital in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Demographic data of the patients were collected including clinical symptoms, laboratory studies, radiological findings, location of the lung involvement, and surgical procedures and post-operative complications were recorded. Results: Pulmonary hydatidosis was confirmed for 69 (46 male and 23 female) patients. The average age of the study group was 31.59±19.49 years. In 29 of the tested patients, specific antibodies of the IgG class to Echinococcus granulosus were positive, and 23 patients showed negative results. The leading symptom was non-productive cough followed by shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, productive cough; rash was reported in one patient. 91.3% of the cases presented with a typical X-ray image and in 8.7% it was atypical. It turned out that 66.7% of patients with an atypical X-ray findings developed complications in the postoperative period. Right lung was affected in 50.7% of the cases. The average size of the echinococcal cyst was 7.43±3.23 cm. Statistical analysis revealed a correlation between the size of the hydatid cyst and the length of the postoperative period. Dissemination in other organs was found in 16 of the patients. No statistically significant differences were reported in the patients with dissemination, regarding the size of the primary hydatid cyst, complications and duration of the postoperative period. The preferred methods of approach were thoracotomy and VATS. The most commonly performed surgical technique was echinococcectomy and capitonnage a modo Delbet followed by two lobectomies and one wedge resection. The mean postoperative period was 7.00±2.81 days. In 12 of the analyzed patients, complications occurred in the postoperative period, and mortality was reported in one patient. Conclusion: Pulmonary echinococcosis remains a significant health issue in many countries worldwide including Bulgaria. With a prolonged silent period, it is usually diagnosed when clinical symptoms as cough, dyspnea, chest pain and fever start manifesting. Plain chest radiography remains the basic imaging method for initial diagnosis while ELISA test has limited diagnostic accuracy in cases of pulmonary hydatidosis. Irrelevant to surgical approach, Delbet’s capitonnage procedure is associated with good postoperative results and low complication rates.

Abstract Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is a widespread weed plant used since ancient times as remedy and as food. Its seed oil possesses significant bioactive potential due to the high content of important phytonutrients, mainly essential fatty acids and phytosterols. Although the total fatty acid composition of oil is well documented, till now there is no data published about individual lipid classes. The information on sterols is scarce as well. Therefore, the aim of this work was to characterize in details for the first time the individual lipid classes and their fatty acid composition, sterols, as well as the oxidative stability of the oil, depending on the extraction method by either hexane, chloroform–methanol mixtures or super-critical CO2. The results revealed no significant effect of extraction method on the individual lipid classes (monoacylglycerols, diacylglycerols, free fatty acids, free sterols, triacylglycerols, sterol esters, wax esters and hydrocarbons), including the fatty acid composition of saponifiables, and quite weak effect on the oxidative stability of the oil regarding super-critical CO2 vs. organic solvents. Detailed analyses of lipid composition confirmed the potential of purslane seed oil as a cheap and highly valuable source of phytonutrients as essential fatty acids and phytosterols, for application in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

Eastern Continental shallow lakes are specific with their higher nutrient concentration compared to other lentic water bodies with similar specifications. Nonetheless, their phytoplankton and macrophyte assessment systems used more often than others within state monitoring programs, are weakly influenced by nutrient concentrations, unlike all other lake types in Europe. In this study, we used all available data for Eastern Continental shallow lakes on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria from the state monitoring for 14 years (2008-2021). The goal was to find how environmental variables influence the ecological status assessment by phytoplankton and macrophyte-related indices. Likewise, it was important to understand the studied parameter’s interrelations within Dourankoulak Lake and the lake complex Shabla-Ezerets. The most important environmental parameters were determined with principal component analysis since it helps find the hidden relationships. Afterwards, those variables were used for univariate linear regression testing because of its simplicity and reliability. The aim was to find the best-suited parameters for the ecological status explanation by different biological indices, which can be used for further predictions of the ecosystem condition. In addition, nitrogen–phosphorus dependency, where possible was investigated, confirming conclusions from mesocosms studies from water bodies with similar characteristics. The algae group index or the so-called “Catalán Index”, in its original form of representing results and considering its ecological quality ratio values, was influenced by conductivity concentrations the most in Ezeretsko Lake and weaker at Dourankoulak Lake. Nutrient relationship with biological quality elements was not found, confirming results on a European level. In Shablensko Lake a dose-dependent relation between nitrates and phosphates was found, which shows that augmenting the quantity of nitrogen is related to the increasing concentration of phosphates.

Introduction: Cardiomyopathies are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of diseases, that are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The aim of the present study is to clarify the molecular-genetic characteristics of cardiomyopathies in patients in Bulgaria. Material and methods: In the present study, targeted analysis of an expanded panel of 242 genes, associated with cardiomyopathy, and an additional panel of 20 genes, associated with hereditary amyloidosis, was performed in a total of 20 Bulgarian patients, diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, as follows: 12 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), including 1 pediatric patient, 6 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), of whom 2 pediatric patients, and 2 patients with restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM). Family segregation analyses were performed by direct Sanger sequencing. Results: Genetic findings were present in 90% of the patients. Pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants were found in 12 of the patients (60%), while genetic findings related to the clinical symptoms were not detected in the RCM patients (10%). Approximately 1/3 of the patients had a family history of sudden cardiac death or cardiomyopathy. Pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants were found in 55% of HCM patients with no family history, in ~67% of HCM patients with family history or with sporadic DCM, and in 100% of DCM patients with a positive family history. A respectively 2,5 and 4-fold higher frequency of truncating variants was found in the study group compared to the reports of around 10% in the literature, both in patients with HCM, and in patients with DCM. Pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants in the MYBPC3 gene (71%) were found with the highest frequency in HCM, while DCM is characterized by a diverse genetic profile, and genetic findings in the NDUFB11 and TAZ genes were associated with severe clinical presentation in pediatric patients in the first postnatal days. Results of segregation analyses were reported in 6 of the affected families. Conclusion: The data from the present study supports the importance of conducted genetic testing and medical-genetic counseling in patients and affected families with cardiomyopathy in Bulgaria

Over the past two decades, biologics (Bs) have been widely used in the treatment of patients with inflammatory joint diseases (IJD). The treatment of IJD aims at reducing disease progression, improving patients’ physical health and well-being, and achieving long-lasting remission or, at least, minimal disease activity. The introduction of Bs in rheumatology practice has significantly improved patients’ outcomes and prognosis. Their use, however, involves undertaking significant risks and challenges for both patients and medical teams. The purpose of this article is to provide a brief overview of the biological therapies currently approved for this group of diseases in Bulgaria and the indications for administration and monitoring of the most common side effects. The optimal administration of Bs is determined by treatment efficacy, discussion of benefits and risks, prevention of the possible development of severe adverse effects, administration regimens, and routes of administration of Bs. The analysis of major issues during treatment helps summarize the information on the use of Bs, thus increasing the possibility of managing the risks associated with their use by strengthening the engagement of healthcare experts and patients in the process of monitoring the impact of biological agents.

The article examines the main characteristics of white brine cheeses from different manufacturers and changes in their quality indicators. These characteristics include the active acidity, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, oxidation–reduction potential, and organoleptic assessment. In this context, the connection to biomimetics lies in the approach of integrating multiple sensory modalities, similar to how biological systems often use multiple senses to perceive and understand their environment. For this purpose, spectral, ultrasonic, and gas characteristics were used, from which informative indices were extracted, united at a later stage in a vector of features. Based on the classification, it was found that the optical characteristics of cheeses from different manufacturers overlap, thus making it possible to predict the main indicators for each type of cheese. The results show that the use of a multimodal approach combining features from different sensors contributes to a better understanding of the variations in cheese properties, while improving the predictive abilities of the created models. The obtained results give a clear idea of the quality of the cheese, thus enabling adequate decisions to be made during the production process.

Introduction: The consequences of osteoporotic fractures are extremely detrimental to the individual as well as to society. Adopting effective preventative measures is a top public health priority. Aim: This paper deals with the development and validation of an osteoporosis knowledge measurement tool. Materials and methods: The study sample included 335 healthy women aged between 25 and 51 years. The osteoporosis knowledge measurement tool is an adapted version of the osteoporosis knowledge assessment tool (OKAT). To determine the validity and reliability of the tool, we examined the psychometric properties. Nonparametric methods were used for the statistical analysis. Results: Flesch reading ease index was 55.14. The Cronbach’s α value was 0.884. The corrected item-total correlations varied between 0.340 and 0.611. The items’ mean difficulty was 0.46. The mean discrimination index was 0.61. The mean score of the sample was M=12.64±5.164, a little bit higher than 50% of the success rate. Conclusion: The tool can be used in different settings to assess educational needs and plan interventions. The results indicate a need for educational and preventive initiatives.

Abstract The growing sector of dairy industry in Bulgaria leads to large waste stream formation with high pollution variation, which require specific treatment application. In the present research different fractions and wash waters from the production of kashkaval and white brined cheese, milk curd, strained yoghurt manufactured in three medium-type Bulgarian milk processing plants were studied. The basic indicators for wastewater quality: total solids (TS), total suspended solids (TSS), active reaction, fat, oil and grease (FOG), 5-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) were analysed by standard procedures. The obtained results indicate that kashkaval whey from the sheep’s milk processing was the most contaminated effluent, reaching COD more than 68,000 mg O2/dm3 and BOD5 - up to 37,000 mg O2/dm3. Such high concentrated wastewaters can be treated only by anaerobic methods. Secondary cheese whey (SCW) has less impurities than cheese whey, but its soluble milk fractions are difficult to biodegrade, resulting in BOD5:COD ratio lower than 0.40. Application of membrane technologies in milk co-product processing remove totally FOG from the SCW, where BOD5 and COD values are around 950 and 2.500 mg O2/dm3, respectively. However, the TN concentration in it is not enough to apply directly aerobic utilization. This method is the most appropriate for washing waters, which occupy both the largest volume and the cleanest fractions of all milk effluents. Future combinations of different dairy wastewaters will show the best utilization protocol for each of the milk processing plant.

Maslow's hierarchical model of human needs has been identified by some researchers as one of the most cognitively contagious ideas in the behavioral sciences. This model is the most recognized, the most widely known, and it is the basis for other major content theories of motivation. Scientific discussions in the 21st century about the merits and limitations of Maslow's theory of basic needs have periodically intensified, since human actions cannot be explained, predicted or managed without an understanding of their motives, the main content of which are human needs. In spite of the controversial attitude towards the theory, it is widely used in management practice because it is coherent, logical, evolutionarily sound and easy to understand. The paper discusses the principle of extreme deficiency as a condition for maintaining the hierarchy of needs, the ideas of architectural extensions of the pyramid, and rethinking the content of some of the major groups of needs in Maslow's model - self-actualization, status, and belonging/love. The enrichment and expansion of Maslow's hierarchy, especially at the highest levels of the needs of self-actualization and self-transcendence, has the potential to increase the predictive power of the model in exploring people's motivation for activity in different contexts.

Today, the interest in the application of natural phytonutrients in various types of foods products is extremely high. Unconventional sources of biologically active substances are being sought to be used in the prevention of various chronic diseases. With a view to their future application in food products, the aim of this study is a comparative analysis of the chemical composition of fruits of two species of Aronia - Aronia melanocarpa (Michx) Elliott (black) and Aronia arbutifolia (L.) Pers (red), grown in two regions of the country. Some physical parameters (width, length, weight) and chemical composition (fat content, pectin, tannins, total polyphenols, ascorbic acid, fibers, glucose and reducing sugars, and mineral composition) were determined for the berries. The antioxidant activity was also determined by two methods - DPPH and FRAP. The data indicates that red Aronia berries are larger in size and have a higher weight (1.92 g). In them, the content of fibers (53.20 %), tannins (0.90 %), fat (0.90 %), ascorbic acid (124 g/100 g) and total polyphenols (4269.40 mg GAEkg-1) is higher compared to black chokeberry fruits. However, they contain more pectin (3.50 gkg-1) and sugars (7.50 g/100 g. Black Aronia berries have higher antioxidant activity - DPPH 289.5 µmol TE/100 g and FRAP 152.3 mM TE g-1. The fruits of both Aronia species are a suitable source for obtaining biologically active substances and phytonutrients for use in various food products.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare the mechanical properties of materials used for orthodontic retainers made by direct 3D printing and thermoforming. Materials and methods: Twenty-one specimens (n=7) from 3 different materials (Formlabs Dental LT Clear V2 - Formlabs Inc., Somerville, Massachusetts, USA; NextDent Ortho Flex - Vertex-Dental B.V., Soesterberg, The Netherlands, and Erkodent Erkodur - ERKODENT, Germany) were manufactured and their mechanical properties were evaluated. Two of the specimen groups were 3D printed and the other one was fabricated using a material for thermoforming. The statistical methods we applied were descriptive statistics, the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn’s post-hoc tests. Results: With respect to Young’s modulus (E), the Kruskal-Wallis test (df=2, χ2=17.121, p=0.0002) showed a significant difference between the materials for direct 3D printing of orthodontic retainers (E=2762.4 MPa±115.16 MPa for group 1 and 2393.05 MPa±158.13 MPa for group 2) and thermoforming foils (group 3, E=1939.4 MPa±74.18 MPa). Statistically significant differences were also found between the flexural strength (FS) (Kruskal-Wallis test, df=2, χ2=17.818, p=0.0001) and F(max) (Kruskal-Wallis test, df=2, χ2=17.818, p=0.0001). Conclusions: The materials tested in the current study showed statistically significant differences in their Young’s modulus, flexural strength, and F(max).

Durum wheat is mainly used for products for human consumption, the quality of which depends on the content of protein and yellow pigments in the semolina. The challenges faced by modern breeding, related to population growth and climate change, imply improvement of both grain yields and quality in durum wheat germplasm well adapted to specific agro-climatic conditions. To address those challenges, a better understanding of the genetic architecture of agronomic and quality traits is needed. In the current study we used the Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) approach in a panel of Bulgarian and foreign genotypes to define loci controlling agronomic and quality traits in durum wheat. We mapped 26 marker traits associations (MTAs) for four of the six studied traits—grain yield, grain protein content, seed yellow colour (CIELAB b*), and plant height. The greatest number of MTAs was detected for grain yield. Seven MTAs were detected for each grain protein content and seed colour, and one MTA for plant height. Most of the reported associations had confidence intervals overlapping with already reported quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Two loci controlling grain yield were not reported previously. The MTAs reported here may be a valuable tool in future breeding for improvement of both grain yield and quality in durum wheat.

The current research project is being conducted in IMDL Genome Center Bulgaria / GMDL Genica (part of the Expert Centers for ATTR in Bulgaria1). It aims at advancing the accurate prognosis and monitoring of the onset and progression of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (vATTR) in Bulgarian Glu89Gln positive asymptomatic and symptomatic polyneuropathy stage I patients on Tafamidis by investigating the biomarker potential of NfL. Furthermore, our goal is to evaluate other better-known biomarkers for cardiac affection such as hs-cTnT, NT-ProBNP and eGFR. In so doing, our multidisciplinary team aims to improve the processes of timely diagnosis and therapy of the Bulgarian vATTR patient community.

The article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of Blockchain technologies. The types of distributed networks are defined and established as open, closed, consortium, and hybrid. Due to the variety of platforms in the Industry 4.0 society, which cannot be distinguished exactly as one type among those listed, the advantages and disadvantages of public and private networks are analyzed. Creating a real project requires compliance with various criteria. The synergism of standard and specialized environmental factors suggests difficulty in developing a techno-economic analysis for a specific task. Therefore, a SWOT analysis is proposed through which strengths and weaknesses, threats, and challenges are determined. To reduce the impact of threats and weaknesses when implementing technology in the industry, a combination of an Enterprise Resource Planning (shortly ERP) software platform and a fast data-transfer environment (such as 5G) is proposed. For this purpose, the features of the latter, which overcome threats and weaknesses, are established. It is established that the collaborative integration of technologies fosters business growth enhances economic impact, and serves as a strong foundation for long-term development across various fronts, positioning ahead of competitors.

Миофибриларни миопатии (MFM) са група от доминантни, наследствени, дегенеративни заболявания на скелетния и сърдечния мускул, характеризиращи се с вътреклетъчно натрупване на протеин, разпадане на миофибрили, десмин-реактивна агрегация на разградени нишки в плеоморфни гранулирани или хиалинни включвания, и ектопична експресия на множество свързани с Z-диск и други протеини. Молекулярната основа на MFM е хетерогенна и са идентифицирани мутации в гени, кодиращи саркомерни Z-диск протеини, включително десмин (DES), алфа-В кристалин (CRYAB), миотилин (TTID), ZASP (LDB3), филамин С (FLNC) и Bcl-2-свързан атаноген-3 протеин (BAG3). Представяме болен на 34 години с начало на болестта от кърмаческа възраст, проявяваща се с хипомимичен фациес, носов говор, мускулна хипотония, мускулна слабост предимно за проксималните мускули на горните крайници, със засягане на сърдечна и дихателната функция.

Provisional fixed partial dentures represent a critical phase in dental treatment, necessitating heightened mechanical durability, particularly in comprehensive and extended treatment plans. Strengthening these structures with various reinforcing materials offers a method to enhance their resilience. Utilizing a three-point testing methodology on standardized trial specimens allows for a comparative assessment of various materials and reinforcement techniques for pre-prosthetic applications. This study aims to validate and assess the significance of integrating different reinforcing materials into standardized test bodies. The study focuses on test specimens comprising three types of unreinforced laboratory and clinical polymers for provisional constructions (n = 6)—heat-cured PMMA (Superpont C+B, Spofa Dental, Czech Republic), CAD-CAM prefabricated PMMA (DD temp MED, Dental Direkt, Germany), CAD-CAM printing resin (Temporary CB Resin, FormLabs, USA), self-polymerizing PEMA (DENTALON plus, Kulzer, Germany), light-polymerizing composite (Revotek LC, GC, Japan), and dual-polymerizing composite (TempSpan, Pentron, USA). Additionally, laboratory polymers are evaluated in groups with five types of reinforcing filaments (n = 15)—Glass Fiber (Fiber Splint One-Layer, Polydentia, Switzerland), Polyethylene thread (Ribbond Regular 4.0 mm, Ribbond Inc., USA), triple-stranded chrome-cobalt wire for splinting 015″ (Leone S.p.a., Italy), Aesthetic ligature wire 012″ (Leone S.p.a., Italy), and Glass Fiber coated with light-cured composite 8.5 × 0.2 mm (Interlig, Angelus, Brazil). Analysis of the data using Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) reveals that the experimental bodies, produced via the subtractive digital method using PMMA (DD temp MED, Dental Direkt GmbH, Germany) as the polymer and glass filaments as the reinforcement, exhibit superior mechanical properties, particularly when pre-wetted with Interlig liquid composite (Angelus, Brazil).

Background: The aim of this review is to explore the role of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer, how it impacts CRC morbidity and mortality, and why its role in clinical medicine is limited. Methods: A targeted, non-systematic review of the published literature relating to colorectal cancer diagnosis was performed with PubMed databases that were scouted to help provide a more defined understanding of the recent advances regarding artificial intelligence and their impact on colorectal-related morbidity and mortality. Articles were included if deemed relevant and including information associated with the keywords. Results: The advancements in artificial intelligence have been significant in facilitating an earlier diagnosis of CRC. In this review, we focused on evaluating genomic biomarkers, the integration of instruments with artificial intelligence, MR and hyperspectral imaging, and the architecture of neural networks. We found that these neural networks seem practical and yield positive results in initial testing. Furthermore, we explored the use of deep-learning-based majority voting methods, such as bag of words and PAHLI, in improving diagnostic accuracy in colorectal cancer detection. Alongside this, the autonomous and expansive learning ability of artificial intelligence, coupled with its ability to extract increasingly complex features from images or videos without human reliance, highlight its impact in the diagnostic sector. Despite this, as most of the research involves a small sample of patients, a diversification of patient data is needed to enhance cohort stratification for a more sensitive and specific neural model. We also examined the successful application of artificial intelligence in predicting microsatellite instability, showcasing its potential in stratifying patients for targeted therapies. Conclusions: Since its commencement in colorectal cancer, artificial intelligence has revealed a multitude of functionalities and augmentations in the diagnostic sector of CRC. Given its early implementation, its clinical application remains a fair way away, but with steady research dedicated to improving neural architecture and expanding its applicational range, there is hope that these advanced neural software could directly impact the early diagnosis of CRC. The true promise of artificial intelligence, extending beyond the medical sector, lies in its potential to significantly influence the future landscape of CRC’s morbidity and mortality.

AbstractThe genetic variation and population structure of a panel of 90 durum wheat (Triticum durum desf.) consisting of 62 varieties and breeding lines originating from two agro-ecological zones in Bulgaria (Northern and Southern Bulgaria) and 28 introduced varieties from South–western, Central and Eastern Europe, and the USA were determined by 34 microsatellite markers (SSR). The genetic diversity in the modern durum wheat was 0.5612 with 6.88 alleles per locus. Model-based population STRUCTURE analysis identified two sub-populations (K = 2) separating the South Bulgarian varieties (SP1) from all others (SP2), including South-Western, Central-Eastern European and North Bulgarian ones. Subsequent genetic structure analysis at K = 4 revealed an additional division of each sub-population into two (SP1-2, SP1-4, SP2-1, SP2-3). DAPC analysis and UPGMA dendrogram based on SSR data were in excellent agreement with the Subpopulations defined by STRUCTURE analysis. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that among the studied 5 agronomically important traits the correlation between grain yield and plant height was the highest and distinguished 10 varieties and advanced breeding lines from Southern Bulgaria (SP1-2 and SP1-4) as most promising in regard to yield stability. This study showed a good relationship between the genetic and phenotypic population structures according to the division of the genotypes by their agro-geographical origin. It will be useful for both breeders and farmers and could serve as a fundament for durum wheat improvement programs under drought prone environmental conditions.

Abstract Background While role of ALDOB-related gene variants for hereditary fructose intolerance is well established, contribution of gene variants for acquired fructose malabsorption (e.g. SLC2A5, GLUT5) is not well understood. Methods Patients referred to fructose breath test were further selected to identify those having acquired fructose malabsorption. Molecular analysis of genomic DNA included (I) exclusion of 3 main ALDOB gene variants causing hereditary fructose intolerance and (II) sequencing analysis of SLC2A5 gene comprising complete coding region, at least 20 bp of adjacent intronic regions and 700 bp of proximal promoter. Results Among 494 patients, 35 individuals with acquired fructose malabsorption were identified based on pathological fructose-breath test and normal lactose-breath test. Thirty four of them (97%) had negative tissue anti-transglutaminase and/or deamidated gliadin antibodies in their medical records. Molecular analysis of SLC2A5 gene of all 35 subjects identified 5 frequent and 5 singular gene variants mostly in noncoding regions (promoter and intron). Allele frequencies of gene variants were similar to those reported in public databases strongly implying that none of them was associated with acquired fructose malabsorption. Conclusions Gene variants of coding exons, adjacent intronic regions and proximal promoter region of SLC2A5 gene are unlikely to contribute to genetic predisposition of acquired fructose malabsorption.

The propolis is a unique natural product that has been used by people in traditional medicine since ancient times. The aim of the present work is to determine the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of propolis, originating in 1993 from North-Eastern Bulgaria. The stored raw material has unchanged physical and chemical parameters - appearance, color, smell, content of mechanical impurities, wax content (19.6%), oxidizability index (16), active acidity (5.5), acid number (42.3 mg KOH/ g), ester number (152 mg KOH/g), boiling point (107°C). The data show that 40 components were identified, representing 99.14% of the total composition. The main components (over 2%) are: chrysin (18.37%), pinobanksin-3-etenoate (13.38%), pinobanksin-3-propanote (11.38%), pinobanksin-3-pentanoate (9.36%), squalene (6.36%), galangin (5.91%), dihydrochrysin (4.11%), pinobanksin-3-butenoate (2.94%), caffeic acid isomer 2 (2.74%), and (E)-sinapic acid (2.23%). Total phenols were 23.91 mg GAE/g. Antioxidant activity was determined by three methods: DPPH (1874.12 mMTE/g), FRAP (1039.18 mMTE/g), and ABTS (1539.52 mMTE/g). The antioxidant effect was monitored against goose fat and sunflower oil. The obtained data show maximally preserved physical parameters, chemical composition and antioxidant activity of the propolis sample stored for more than 30 years, which can be used in various products, an object of future research.

One of the main parameters of the extraction process is the coefficient of diffusion. It gives information about the diffusion properties of the material to be extracted and depends on various factors: raw material structure, solvent type, temperature, process duration, etc. Determination of molecular diffusion coefficients in extraction from red (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.) and black (Crataegus nigra Waldst & Kit) hawthorn is an objective of the work. The extracts were obtained by ultrasonic extraction with 50 and 70% ethanol at three temperatures (20, 40 and 60°C). The highest values of coefficients for both hawthorn species were obtained at 60°C with 50% ethanol – 5.13.10-6 m2/s for black hawthorn and 6.4.10-6 m2/s for red hawthorn.

The aim of the current work is to determine the main biologically active substances and antioxidant activity of aqueous-ethanolic extracts of cultivated rosehip fruit obtained by ultrasonic treatment. The extraction was performed under the following technological parameters: ultrasound frequency 37 kHz, solvents 50 and 70% ethanol, raw material: solvent ratio = 1:20, temperature 20, 40 and 60°C, duration 15, 30 and 60 min. Tannins, ascorbic acid and total phenolic contents were determined in the extracts. The highest tannin content (1.90%) was obtained by extraction with 50% ethanol, temperature 60°C and process duration 60 min. The total phenolic content under the different process conditions is comparable. Higher values of total phenols (45.43 mg GAE g-1) were determined at 50% ethanol solvent, 40°C temperature and 60 min process duration. The highest values of antioxidant activity, by the DPPH method, were reported in extracts with 50% ethanol, temperature 40°C and duration 60 min (422.5 μmol TE/g), and by FRAP method under the same extraction conditions - the value was almost twice lower (231.9 μmol TE).

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are extensively used to gather remote sensing data, offering high image resolution and swift data acquisition despite being labor-intensive. In contrast, satellite-based remote sensing, providing sub-meter spatial resolution and frequent revisit times, could serve as an alternative data source for phenotyping. In this study, we separately evaluated pan-sharpened Pléiades satellite imagery (50 cm) and UAV imagery (2.5 cm) to phenotype durum wheat in small-plot (12 m × 1.10 m) breeding trials. The Gaussian process regression (GPR) algorithm, which provides predictions with uncertainty estimates, was trained with spectral bands and а selected set of vegetation indexes (VIs) as independent variables. Grain protein content (GPC) was better predicted with Pléiades data at the growth stage of 20% of inflorescence emerged but with only moderate accuracy (validation R2: 0.58). The grain yield (GY) and protein yield (PY) were better predicted using UAV data at the late milk and watery ripe growth stages, respectively (validation: R2 0.67 and 0.62, respectively). The cumulative VIs (the sum of VIs over the available images within the growing season) did not increase the accuracy of the models for either sensor. When mapping the estimated parameters, the spatial resolution of Pléiades revealed certain limitations. Nevertheless, our findings regarding GPC suggested that the usefulness of pan-sharpened Pléiades images for phenotyping should not be dismissed and warrants further exploration, particularly for breeding experiments with larger plot sizes.

Background and Objectives: The aim of this review is to explore the recent surgical innovations in tracheal reconstruction by evaluating the uses of synthetic material fabrication when dealing with tracheomalacia or stenotic pathologies, then discussing the challenges holding back these innovations. Materials and Methods: A targeted non-systematic review of published literature relating to tracheal reconstruction was performed within the PubMed database to help identify how synthetic materials are utilised to innovate tracheal reconstruction. Results: The advancements in 3D printing to aid synthetic material fabrication have unveiled promising alternatives to conventional approaches. Achieving successful tracheal reconstruction through this technology demands that the 3D models exhibit biocompatibility with neighbouring tracheal elements by encompassing vasculature, chondral foundation, and immunocompatibility. Tracheal reconstruction has employed grafts and scaffolds, showing a promising beginning in vivo. Concurrently, the integration of resorbable models and stem cell therapy serves to underscore their viability and application in the context of tracheal pathologies. Despite this, certain barriers hinder its advancement in surgery. The intricate tracheal structure has posed a challenge for researchers seeking novel approaches to support its growth and regeneration. Conclusions: The potential of synthetic material fabrication has shown promising outcomes in initial studies involving smaller animals. Yet, to fully realise the applicability of these innovative developments, research must progress toward clinical trials. These trials would ascertain the anatomical and physiological effects on the human body, enabling a thorough evaluation of post-operative outcomes and any potential complications linked to the materials or cells implanted in the trachea.

Durum wheat is mainly used for products for human consumption, the quality of which depends on the content of protein and yellow pigments in the semolina. The challenges faced by modern breeding, related to population growth and climate change, imply improvement of both grain yields and quality in durum wheat germplasm well adapted to specific agro-climatic conditions. To address those challenges, a better understanding of the genetic architecture of agronomic and quality traits is needed. In the current study we used the Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) approach in a panel of Bulgarian and foreign genotypes to define loci controlling agronomic and quality traits in durum wheat. We mapped 26 marker traits associations (MTAs) for four of the six studied traits—grain yield, grain protein content, seed yellow colour (CIELAB b*), and plant height. The greatest number of MTAs was detected for grain yield. Seven MTAs were detected for each grain protein content and seed colour, and one MTA for plant height. Most of the reported associations had confidence intervals overlapping with already reported quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Two loci controlling grain yield were not reported previously. The MTAs reported here may be a valuable tool in future breeding for improvement of both grain yield and quality in durum wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eastern Continental shallow lakes are specific with their higher nutrient concentration compared to other lentic water bodies with similar specifications. Nonetheless, their phytoplankton and macrophyte assessment systems used more often than others within state monitoring programs, are weakly influenced by nutrient concentrations, unlike all other lake types in Europe. In this study, we used all available data for Eastern Continental shallow lakes on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria from the state monitoring for 14 years (2008-2021). The goal was to find how environmental variables influence the ecological status assessment by phytoplankton and macrophyte-related indices. Likewise, it was important to understand the studied parameter's interrelations within Dourankoulak Lake and the lake complex Shabla-Ezerets. The most important environmental parameters were determined with principal component analysis since it helps find the hidden relationships. Afterwards, those variables were used for univariate linear regression testing because of its simplicity and reliability. The aim was to find the best-suited parameters for the ecological status explanation by different biological indices, which can be used for further predictions of the ecosystem condition. In addition, nitrogen--phosphorus dependency, where possible was investigated, confirming conclusions from mesocosms studies from water bodies with similar characteristics. The algae group index or the so-called "Catalán Index", in its original form of representing results and considering its ecological quality ratio values, was influenced by conductivity concentrations the most in Ezeretsko Lake and weaker at Dourankoulak Lake. Nutrient relationship with biological quality elements was not found, confirming results on a European level. In Shablensko Lake a dose-dependent relation between nitrates and phosphates was found, which shows that augmenting the quantity of nitrogen is related to the increasing concentration of phosphates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcoglycanopathies are among the most frequent and severe forms of autosomal recessive forms of limb-girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMDs) with childhood onset. Four subtypes are known: LGMDR3, LGMDR4, LGMDR5 and LGMDR6, which are caused, respectively, by mutations in the SGCA, SGCB, SGCG and SGCD genes. We present the clinical variability of LGMD 2C/R5 among a genetically homogeneous group of 57 patients, belonging to 35 pedigrees. Molecular genetic analysis showed that all 57 patients were homozygous for the C283Y variant. The muscles of the pelvic girdle and the trunk were affected early and were more severely affected, followed by the shoulder girdle. Macroglossia, hypertrophy of the calves, scapular winging and lumbar hyperlordosis were common in the ambulatory phase. A great intra and interfamilial variability in the clinical presentation of LGMD 2C/R5 was observed, despite having the same underlying molecular defect. Females demonstrated a relatively milder clinical course compared to males. Mean creatine phosphokinase (CK) CK levels were 20 times above normal values. Muscle computer tomography (CT) CT or MRIs showed earlier and more severe involvement of the flexor proximal limb muscles in comparison to extensor muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have heralded a paradigm shift in the management of immune-mediated diseases. While their efficacy is well-established, the safety concerns associated with these agents, particularly regarding thromboembolic events (TE), remain a focus of extensive research and clinical scrutiny. This comprehensive literature review embarks on an exploration of the multifaceted landscape of JAK inhibitors, providing insights into their safety profiles across diverse immune-mediated diseases. The introduction highlights the transformative influence of JAK inhibitors in the treatment of immune-mediated diseases. Historically, the therapeutic arsenal for these conditions included corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics. The advent of JAK inhibitors has revolutionized this landscape, although concerns about their safety persist. This review strives to comprehensively evaluate their safety, amalgamating knowledge from multiple studies and trials. The subsequent sections delve into the safety of specific JAK inhibitors in the context of rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, and dermatologic conditions and their associations with venous thromboembolism. The evolving understanding of TE risk, particularly the intricate relationship between these agents and immune-mediated diseases, is meticulously unravelled. The concluding remarks underscore the dynamic nature of TE risk assessment with regard to immune-mediated diseases involving JAK inhibitors. It underscores that risk assessment is multifactorial, influenced not only by the choice of JAK inhibitor but also by the nuances of the underlying immune-mediated disease and the unique patient characteristics. This review offers a holistic perspective on TE risks associated with JAK inhibitors and contributes to the ongoing dialogue regarding their safety in the realm of immune-mediated diseases.

The aim of the present study was to examine the performance of residue from extracted onion processing waste for the ability to remove Cr (VI) ions from aqueous solutions. The characterization of applied biosorbent was conducted by FT-IR analysis. Batch experiments were carried out and the effects of different adsorption process parameters were determined. Maximum removal efficiency of 98.29 ± 0.17 % was obtained at pH = 1.0, adsorbent dose 0.5 g·L-1, initial Cr (VI) concentration 50 mg·L-1, temperature 25.0 ± 0.5 oC, agitation speed 200 rpm and contact time of 30 min. The pseudo-second order model and Langmuir model provided the best fit to experimental kinetics and equilibrium isotherm data, respectively. Based on the values determined for the maximum adsorption capacity (qmax = 47.17 mg·g-1) the extracted onion processing waste could be applied as a low cost biosorbent for removal of Cr (VI) ions from polluted water.

This study presents the Middle Palaeolithic leaf points discovered on the territory of Bulgaria. The context of their discovery is various : from archaeological excavations, field surveys, various collections, or isolated finds. There are 11 sites on the territory of Bulgaria with leaf points : Muselievo, Samuilitsa II Cave, Vasil Levski Cave, Orlova Chuka Cave, Madara, Kozarnika Cave, Temnata Cave, Redaka II Cave, Shiroka Polyana Dam, Vrashka Chuka, Ruse. Except for the leaf points from the surroundings of Shiroka Polyana Dam, all the pieces were discovered in Northern Bulgaria. Most of the points come from assemblages associated with the Levallois-Mousterian industry, while others have no stratigraphic context (Malkata Peshtera in Madara, Vrashka Chuka, Ruse, Redaka II). During the Middle Palaeolithic, the distribution of leaf points covered almost all Bulgaria, becoming more abundant towards the end of this period. The artefacts from Muselievo and Samuilitsa II dating from the period of 60.000– 45.000 BP endorse such a conclusion. The points from Vasil Levski, Orlova Chuka, Redaka, Vrashka Chuka, Madara, Ruse, and Shiroka Polyana can also be attributed to the same time period. Special attention must be given to the deposit near Muselievo. Defined as a workshop for the production of leaf points (one of the few sites of the kind in Europe), it allows for a more accurate and detailed study of this kind of tools