Human Footprint and Forest Disturbance Reduce Space Use of Brown Bears (Ursus arctos) Across Europe.

Three-quarters of the planet's land surface has been altered by humans, with consequences for animal ecology, movements and related ecosystem functioning. Species often occupy wide geographical ranges with contrasting human disturbance and environmental conditions, yet, limited data availability across species' ranges has constrained our understanding of how human pressure and resource availability jointly shape intraspecific variation of animal space use. Leveraging a unique dataset of 758 annual GPS movement trajectories from 375 brown bears (Ursus arctos) across the species' range in Europe, we investigated the effects of human pressure (i.

The Langmuir Monolayer as a Model Membrane System for Studying the Interactions of Poly(Butyl Cyanoacrylate) Nanoparticles with Phospholipids at the Air/Water Interface.

Poly(butyl cyanoacrylate) (PBCA) nanoparticles have numerous applications, including drug and gene delivery, molecular imaging, and cancer therapy. To uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying their interactions with cell membranes, we utilized a Langmuir monolayer as a model membrane system. This approach enabled us to investigate the processes of penetration and reorganization of PBCA nanoparticles when deposited in a phospholipid monolayer subphase.

Characterization of the binding of the globular domains of the complement component C1q to phosphatidylserine.

C1q, the key component of the classical pathway of the Complement system, is known for its vast functional activity including clearance of apoptotic cells. The binding of C1q to apoptotic blebs occurs via an interaction with the phosphatidylserine externalized on the cell surface. In this study, we characterized the interaction between C1q and phosphatidylserine, with emphasis on the structure of the phosphatidylserine-binding site within the globular domains of C1q and the nature of binding of C1q with phosphatidylserine, using both in vitro and in silico methods.

Establishing a unified global framework for studying dementia knowledge: insights from a narrative review.

Background: With the global population aging rapidly, dementia has become a pressing public health challenge, affecting the cognitive functions and daily activities of older adults worldwide. Enhancing literacy about dementia is a proactive prevention strategy, yet the effectiveness of educational programs can vary based on the target population's background. Thus, understanding dementia knowledge levels across different communities and countries is essential for successful educational interventions.

Discontinuation of biologic and target-specific therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a retrospective cohort study.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive disease that requires continuous treatment. Despite the excellent results, treatment with biologics and target-specific disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs often has to be interrupted due to insufficient therapeutic effectiveness, toxicity, or side effects.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify the reasons and factors influencing treatment discontinuation with biologic and target-specific drugs among the Bulgarian patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Vaccination for solid organ transplanted patients: Recommendations, efficacy, and safety.

Solid organ transplant recipients face unique challenges in managing their immunosuppressed status, making vaccination a critical consideration. This review aimed to comprehensively analyze current recommendations, evaluate the efficacy of vaccinations in this population, and assess safety concerns. We explored the latest evidence on vaccine types, timing, and potential benefits for transplant patients, highlighting the importance of individualized approaches for routinely used vaccines as well as coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines.

Magnetic Field Effect on the Electric and Dielectric Properties of the Linear Magnetoelectric Compound CoNbO.

Using Green's function theory and a microscopic model, the multiferroic properties of Co4Nb2O9 are investigated theoretically. There are some discrepancies in the discussion of the electric and dielectric behavior of CNO with and without external magnetic fields. We try to clarify them.

Blue Light Enhances the Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Antitumor Potential of the Green Microalgae sp. BGV.

Green algae of the genus have attracted the attention of scientists due to their rich biochemical composition and potential for application in phytomedicine. The present study investigated the influence of light on the bioactive capacity of extracts from the Bulgarian strain of the green microalgae sp. BGV.

Beneficial and Safety Properties of a Bacteriocinogenic and Putative Probiotic subsp. 2a Strain.

This work aimed to evaluate some of the probiotic features and safety of the bacteriocin-producing subsp. 2a. The effect of selected commercial drugs from different generic groups and antibiotics on the growth of subsp.

Implementation of Diagnostics with Macrolide-Resistance Detection Improves Patient Treatment Outcomes in Bulgaria.

The increasing prevalence of infections with macrolide-resistance, causing high azithromycin failure rates, is a major concern internationally. In response to this challenge, diagnostics that simultaneously detect and genetic markers for macrolide-resistance enable the therapy to be individually tailored, i.e.

Insights into glymphatic system dysfunction and glucose continuum.

In this article, we comment on an original article published in a recent issue of the . That observational cross-sectional study focused on investigating the function of the glymphatic system and its clinical correlates in patients with different glucose metabolism states by using diffusion tensor imaging along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) index. It was shown that the cerebral glymphatic system may be dysfunctional in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Breast cancer in Bulgaria prior implementation of a national breast cancer screening program and certified breast centers.

Introduction: Breast cancer (BC) survival has improved globally in the past years. Eastern Europe is a region with lack of epidemiological data and traditionally lower BC overall survival (OS). We aimed to investigate the epidemiology of BC in Bulgaria between 2012 and 2022 and the readiness of the state for implementing population based organized screening program.

Hyperandrogenemia impairs endometrial vitamin D receptor expression in polycystic ovary syndrome.

Objectives: To determine the effects of hyperandrogenemia and other phenotypic parameters on endometrial vitamin D receptor (VDR-X2 and VDR-X4) expression in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) undergoing ovarian stimulation and total embryo freezing.

Methods: Forty-four PCOS patients were divided into four phenotypes according to the criteria for hyperandrogenemia (HA), ovulatory dysfunction (OD), and polycystic ovary morphology (PCOM): phenotype A (HA+OD+PCOM), phenotype B (HA+OD), phenotype C (HA+PCOM), and phenotype D (OD+PCOM). Endometrial VDR expression was determined by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry.

Altered Mitochondrial DNA Copy Number and Telomere Length in Patients with Substance Use Disorder: Correlation with Age, Sex, and Chronic Diseases.

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition involving psychological, sociocultural, and genetic factors. In this study, we examined the alternations in mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) and telomere length (TL) and their relationship to demographic, medical, heredity, and substance use characteristics in patients with SUD and healthy controls. We investigated a total cohort of 54 participants: 21 healthy individuals, 17 patients with alcohol dependence (AD), and 16 patients with drug dependence (DD).

Water-Soluble Polyglycidol-Grafted Ladder Calix Resorcinarene Oligomers with Open Chain and Cyclic Topologies: Synthesis, Characteristics, and Biological Evaluation.

Ladder oligomers containing calixarene skeletons in the main chain-calix[4]resorcinarene (CRA) ladder macromolecules with open chain and cyclic macromolecules with double ring-like (Noria-type) topologies-bring particular research attention as functional materials with various applications. However, there is still a remarkable lack of studies into the synthesis of fully water-soluble derivatives of these interesting macromolecules. Research on this topic would allow their bio-based research and application niche to be at least revealed.

Optical Properties and Antimicrobial Activity of Si/PVP Hybrid Material Combined with Antibiotics.

Silica-poly (vinylpyrrolidone) hybrid material was prepared using the sol-gel method. Tetramethyl ortosilane (TMOS) was used as a silica precursor. XRD analysis established that the as-prepared material is amorphous.

Green Synthesis, Characterization and Pharmaceutical Applications of Biocompatible Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Stocks.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles are safe, non-toxic, and biocompatible. These NPs are used in food packaging materials, self-cleaning glass, ceramics, deodorants, sunscreens, paints, coatings, ointments, lotions, and as preservatives. This study explored the biological potential of ZnO nanoparticles synthesized using .

Rabbit and Human Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-2: Structure and Electric Properties.

The angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) is a transmembrane glycoprotein, consisting of two segments: a large carboxypeptidase catalytic domain and a small transmembrane collectrin-like segment. This protein plays an essential role in blood pressure regulation, transforming the peptides angiotensin-I and angiotensin-II (vasoconstrictors) into angiotensin-1-9 and angiotensin-1-7 (vasodilators). During the COVID-19 pandemic, ACE2 became best known as the receptor of the S-protein of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

Association Between Zinc Status and Insulin Resistance/Sensitivity Check Indexes in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is considered the most common metabolic disorder of the pregnancy period. It is characterized by pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction in the setting of chronic insulin resistance. Zinc is a nutrient involved in numerous metabolic processes and shows a relationship with glycometabolic disorders and GDM.

Cobalt(II) and Manganese(II) Complexes of Sodium Monensinate A Bearing Nitrate Co-Ligands.

Monensic acid is a natural polyether ionophore and is a therapeutic of first choice in veterinary medicine for the control of coccidiosis. Although known as a sodium-binding ligand, it can also form a variety of coordination species depending on experimental conditions applied. In this study, we present the crystal structures and properties of Co(II) and Mn(II) complexes of sodium monensinate (MonNa) derived from the reaction of MonNa with cobalt or manganese dinitrates.

Coronary artery microfistulae, Thebesian veins, or vessels of Wearn?

We present the case of a 73-year-old woman with coronary artery-left ventricular multiple microfistulae, who was admitted with symptoms and ECG suggestive of coronary artery disease. Coronary angiography revealed tortuous coronary arteries with multiple microfistulae between the left coronary artery and the left ventricle, as well as between the right coronary artery and the left ventricle. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was also able to clearly demonstrate the presence of the microfistulae with their direction of blood flow towards the left ventricle.

Improving early diagnosis of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 by assessing the gastrointestinal symptoms, hypercalcemia, and elevated serum gastrin.

Despite advancements in the field, early diagnosis of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) remains unachievable. This letter to the editor highlighted the importance of carefully assessing gastrointestinal symptoms, hypercalcemia, and elevated serum gastrin levels, as suggested by Yuan in their paper. They focused on a patient with recurrent abdominal pain and diarrhea whose diagnostic path led to establishing a MEN1 diagnosis within a year.

Onset of quantum thermalization in the Jahn-Teller model.

We investigate the onset of quantum thermalization in a system governed by the Jahn-Teller Hamiltonian, which describes the interaction between a single spin and two bosonic modes. We find that the Jahn-Teller model exhibits a finite-size quantum phase transition between the normal phase and two types of super-radiant phase when the ratios of spin-level splitting to each of the two bosonic frequencies grow to infinity. We test the prediction of the eigenstate thermalization hypothesis in the Jahn-Teller model.