This study explores the educational potential of integrating virtual reality (VR) and 3D printing in STEM education, with a focus on improving students’ understanding of molecular geometry. The main aim is to examine how engagingtechnologies influence students’ conceptual understanding, involvement, and spatial thinking.The research was conducted with 32 undergraduate students from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at South-West University “Neofit Rilski”. A structured three-phase learning model was applied, including digital modeling of molecules using CAD software, physical creation of models through 3D printing, and interactive exploration in a virtual reality environment. Data were collected through questionnaires, classroom observations, and reflective student journals.The results show that over 90% of students reported improved understanding of molecular structures, while a significant number demonstrated increased motivation and enhanced spatial visualization skills. Students also highlighted the value of combining physical and virtual interaction in the learning process.The findings suggest that the integration of VR and 3D printing provides an effective and engaging approach to teaching abstract scientific concepts. This approach supports active learning and contributes to the development of key competencies in STEM education.
The article examines the social conditioning of perceptions in the reflective field of the pedagogical profession, focusing on the social factors that influence the way in which teachers make sense of their practice, professional identity and relationships. Based on the understanding that reflection is not just an individual cognitive act, but socially situated and structured, the analysis of how teachers' perceptions are shaped by the context of the educational system, cultural expectations, social background, professional socialization and institutional dynamics,isundertaken. Particular attention is paid to the interweaving of the components of the perceptual environment, which forms a complex network of influences on pedagogical orientation. By understanding conceptual-theoretical frameworks and contemporary research on pedagogical identity, it is shown that the reflective ability of the teacher is built and limited by his social position -at an intersection with intense emotional and symbolic load.The study examines the reflexive field in which internally created images and socially constructed roles, models and representations interact. The emphasis is on socially conditioned cognitive schemes of perception and action that influence the ability forcritical distance and professional autonomy. In this context, it reveals how social conditions function as a mechanism for adaptation or resistance to the dominant educational paradigm in the process of professional self-awareness and social interaction. These mechanisms are dynamic and related to the changing social environment, in which reflection is not simply a result, but a research perspective for continuous rethinking of pedagogical practice at both the individual and institutional levels.
The study examines the attitudes, perceptions, and behavioural manifestations related to cultural awareness, intercultural tolerance, and academic adaptation among medical students at the Medical University ofPleven. The theoretical framework emphasises tolerance as a necessary virtue in the context of cultural diversity and a globalising society. BetweenMarch andMay 2025,theDepartment of Social Medicine and Health Management conducted an online, anonymous survey among 119 Bul-garian medical students from 2ndand 6thyear. All respondents participated in the study voluntarily. The survey was approvedby a decision of the Ethics Committee, Proceedings FormNo 82. Based on empirical datashoweda high degree of intercultural sensitivity and a positive attitude towards cultural diversity, regardless of the academic level, is established. The analysis revealed that students at an advanced stage of their studies more often report eddifficulties in adaptation, which probably reflects the accumulated academic workload. Participants perceivedinter cultural communication as a valuable experience, and intercultural initiatives enjoyed wider support, despite the low levels of active en-gagement. The results underscore the importance of targeted educational policies in fostering inter-cultural competence in medical education.
The purpose of this study is to examine the extent to which gender and education are associated with verbal–visual cognitive styles in the context of advertising perception. The research addresses an identified gap in advertising and cognitive psychology literature concerning the combined effects of demographic factors on individual differences in information processing. An empirical study was conducted using a standardized verbal–visual cognitive style questionnaire measuring visual, verbal, and imagery-based (dream) processing preferences. Independent-samples t-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were applied to assess the effects of gender and education on cognitive style dimensions. The findings indicate statistically significant gender differences in visual and imagery-based cognitive styles, with females demonstrating higher visual orientation and males exhibiting stronger imagery-based tendencies. Education level was associated with differences across all cognitive style dimensions, indicating differentiated patterns of information processing across educational groups. The results suggest that gender and education are relevant factors related to verbal–visual cognitive styles and should be considered in the design and evaluation of advertising messages. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of individual differences in advertising perception and offer practical implications for more effective communication strategies.
PURPOSE: Modern school education increasingly emphasizes the holistic development of the learner's personality, along with academic achievements. The competency approach is a pedagogical framework that integrates knowledge, skills and values, allowing learners to apply the results of learning in real-life contexts. This training aims to provide a modern educational environment that guarantees a unified approach to the implementation of key competencies in the field of education. The article explores the theoretical foundations and practical application of personality-oriented education through the competency-based approach at the school level. Modern education seeks not only to inform, but also to form individuals who are able to adapt, think critically and act effectively in different life situations. It is here that the competency-based approach appears -an innovative pedagogical paradigm that focuses on the development of the learner's personal potential.METHODS:Particular attention is paid to teaching methods, assessment practices and the evolving role of teachers in promoting key competencies and personal development among students. In pedagogical practice, priority is given to methods that develop autonomy, critical thinking skills and social activity. Teaching methods can be defined as ways of joint activity of the teacher and students, through which pedagogically adapted social experience is mastered.RESULTS: The student's personal potential is a set of internal resources that include cognitive abilities, emotional intelligence, motivation, value system, attitudes and social skills. This is the foundation on which the student's ability to develop, adapt and successfully realize himself in various life and professional situations is built. The project-based model does not simply engage the student in productive activity, but places him inan authentic social situation in which he must mobilize knowledge and skills in order to achieve a specific result. The topic of the student's personality is key in the context of the competency approach, because it is through it that individual abilities, motivation and value orientation are developed.CONCLUSION:Education with a focus on personality, implemented through the competency approach, is a sustainable and future-oriented model for school education. It combines academic training with personal development, social responsibility and applicability in real life. In conclusion, the opportunities facing the education system in implementing the competency model are outlined.
Introduction: Emotions and physiological health are deeply interconnected, influencing overall well-being through complex biological and psychological mechanisms. This study explores the relationship between multimodal emotional states and oxygen saturation (SpO₂) as an integrated approach to holistic health. Methods: By analysing the physiological responses associated with different emotional states, we aim to determine how emotions impact oxygenation levels and overall cardiovascular and respiratory function. Results: The research incorporates biophysical monitoring, psychological assessment, and interdisciplinary methodologies to establish correlations between emotional regulation, stress management, and optimal oxygen saturation. One critical physiological indicator is SpO₂, which plays a vital role in cognitive function, stress regulation, and overall physical performance. Discussion: Findings suggest that positive emotional states enhance oxygen transport efficiency, while negative emotions may contribute to hypoxia-related health risks. Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of integrating emotional well-being into health assessments and therapeutic practices, advocating for a comprehensive, multimodal strategy to improve both mental and physical health outcomes.
Introduction: Canoe-kayak sports have gained popularity not only for their recreational appeal,but also for their significant social and health benefits. Methods: This study explores the multidimensional impact of canoeing and kayaking on individual well-being, physical fitness, and social cohesion. Results: Engaging in these water sports enhances cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and coordination,while promoting mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety. The rhythmic nature of paddling fosters mindfulness, contributing to emotional balance and resilience. Additionally, canoe-kayak activities encourage social interaction, teamwork, and environmental awareness, strengthening community bonds and promoting outdoor engagement. Discussion: The study further examines the therapeutic potential of these sports in rehabilitation and adaptive sports programs, emphasizing their inclusivity and accessibility. Conclusion: By analysing recent research and real-world case studies, this paper highlights how canoe-kayak serves as a holistic approach to wellness, reinforcing its role as an effective tool for improving both physical and mental health while fostering social integration.
Introduction: Strength training is traditionally a vital component of motor culture and has been the focus of numerous studies which identify strength as a fundamental physical ability with a key role in athletic performance. Methods: The study aims to optimize the strength potential of university students through sports activities targeting the development of dynamic strength. A studywas conducted involving 60 students from various academic programs, who participated in a 12-week training program. Results: Strength performance was assessed through tests for explosive strength, muscular endurance, and bodyweight-based functional exercises. The analysis included a comparison of initial and final test results using statistical methods to determine the effectiveness of the intervention. The registered data demonstrated a significant increase in indicators of muscular endurance and explosive strength in more than 80% of the participants. A positive correlation was found between the participation and progress in strength development. The discussion addresses the potential for adapting the model to various educational programs and sports disciplines. The conclusion is that implementing strength training interventions within the academic curriculum leads to a significant improvement in students' physical fitness and has high applicability in university sports practice.
The digitalisation of higher education has intensified debates about the role of digital inequality in shaping students’ educational and social experiences. This study examines digital inequality as a multi-level social phenomenon and analyses its role as a mediating mechanism betweenstudents’ socio-economic status and their educational outcomes and social inclusion. Drawing on survey data collected from 300 Bulgarian and international students enrolled at the same university, the study employs correlation analysis, multiple linear regression models, and mediation analysis to test the proposed conceptual framework. The results demonstrate that socio-economic status significantly predicts both digital access and digital competence, confirming the structural nature of digital inequality.Digital competence emerges as a stronger predictor of educational outcomes and social inclusion than formal access to digital technologies, highlighting the importance of secondary digital inequality related to skills and effective use. Mediation analysisfurther reveals that the effects of socio-economic status on educational outcomes and social inclusion are partially mediated by digital resources and, to an even greater extent, by digital competence. Comparative analyses by nationality indicate that differences in prior digital preparation and national educational contexts continue to shape students’ digital capital, even within a shared institutional environment. The findings underscore that digital inequality in higher education should be understood not merely as a technical or infrastructural issue, but as a complex social process that requires targeted institutional and educational interventions. The study contributes to the literature by empirically demonstrating the mechanisms through which digital inequality influences academic performance and social inclusion, and by offering evidence-based implications for policy and practice in increasingly internationalised higher education systems.
Objective: The aim of the present study is to perform a biomechanical quantitative analysis of uniform techniques performed against a real and fictitious target. Methods: The subjects of the study were karatekas(kyokushinkai), a total of 16 experienced individuals. The technical level of the experienced individuals was between first kyuand second dan. The experiments were carried out with the help of video computer equipment for movement analysis. Results: Naturally, in the real hit, at most two maxima wereobserved, while in the marking one there werea number of (more than 4) local extrema. Duringreal performance, the acceleration path is significantly longer whichleads to the need to exertmuch larger inertial forces. This is probably due to the fact that in the demonstrative performance the competitor fails to use the maximum potential of his explosive muscle forces. Conclusion: The derived characteristic for the number of extrema on the functional curves from the space-time characteristics demonstrates a stable regularity, through which the degree of sports and technical mastery and the objective differences between real and formal strikes in karate can be reliably assessed.
Strength training in sports has long been a topic of debate. It is also examined with regard to concepts giving it additional characteristics, particularly dynamic (explosive) strength, which is manifested in the shortest time. Testing according tothe indices that characterizeobjectivelydynamic strength level was conducted with 50 randomly selected students, engaged in various motor activities. The model we developed by applyingthe MARTIN method (successfully usedin sports and pedagogic investigations) involves mathematicallyand statisticallyprocessed and analysed results, based on variable parameters, logarithmic, correlation, and interrelation dependencies. The model attempts to determine the level of the dynamic strength momentum state as part of the motor potential of students by objective evaluation, allowing optimal impact exerted in a particular direction.
Healthy lifestyles and their determinants are key prerequisites for healthy and active aging and constitute an important domain of the Active Aging Index. The purpose of this study is to investigate and compare the subjective assessments of elderly people living in Bulgaria and France regarding factors that shape a healthy lifestyle, with a focus on nutrition, health status and socio-economic conditions. Methods: An anonymous voluntary survey was conducted among elderly people living in urban areas, rural regions and institutions in Bulgaria and France during the period 2019–2021. Data were collected through questionnaires, direct observations and interviews. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, applying analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Student–Fisher t-tests to assess differences between groups and the influence of selected factors. Results: The average age of respondents in France was significantly higher than that of respondents in Bulgaria. Elderly people in France reported higher alcohol consumption and greater dissatisfaction with their financial status, despite more frequent consumption of healthy foods such as dairy products, fruits and vegetables. In both countries, respondents expressed a need for home-based care and hot meal delivery, with stronger demand observed in France. Conclusions: Differences in lifestyle, financial security and health status significantly influence subjective assessments of healthy aging. Elderly people in Bulgaria are more constrained by financial limitations, experience higher levels of social isolation and poorer oral health, and report more health-related dietary restrictions compared to their French counterparts.
Introduction: The aim of this study is to assess certain physical abilities through specific tests during pregnancy via holistic motor activities based on the Nesheva’sProgram and to propose an innovative sports-animation product for a specific category of tourists –pregnant women. Methods:The study included ten women with normal pregnancies (2ndand 3rdtrimester; informed consent; age 28.7±4.0 years; pre-pregnancy weight (PPW) 61.6±9.47 kg; study-period weight (SPW) 68.5±9.35 kg; height 165.5±8.49 cm; BMI 25.0±3.05; torso length 57.7±2.75 cm). Two groups of tests were conducted. Results:Statistical data are presented in Table 1. PPW and SPW differ significantly (p<0.01). The following significant correlations were identified: age with BMI; weight with torso length; (TRCSP) with (TLCSP); (AKS) with (URLL). Discussion: Age, weight, and body mass index fall within normal ranges for this population. When comparing these results with our previously published data from another group of pregnant women engaged in gymnastics, more pronounced differences were observed in the balance stability tests. Conclusion: The physical changes during pregnancy lead to significant alterations in balance, posture, and movement.
The reflectivity of road markings is acrucial factor for safe road conditions, improving visibility in adverse weather. Over time, markings lose their effectiveness due to wear, increasing the risk of accidents. This analysis discusses monitoring methods, with special attention to the application of mobile laser scanning (MLS). The technology provides accurate and reliable data on the condition of markings, enabling timely maintenance. Using mobile laser scanning not only speeds up the inspection process,but also supports informed decision-making. Integrating this technology into road infrastructure management (specifically road markings) is an important step towards improving the safety and efficiency of the transport system.
PURPOSE: To review and summarize the most recent evidence on spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for chronic pain management and motor function improvement, with a focus on clinical outcomes, mechanisms, and safety. METHODS:A literature search was conducted using major scientific databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science. Only studies published in the current year were included. Eligible publications involved human or animal research related to pain relief, motor recovery, device performance, or safety. Data were synthesized descriptively. RESULTS:Recent studies confirm that SCS provides effective and sustained pain relief, improves functionality, and reduces opioid use. Novel stimulation modalities—such as high-frequency and closed-loop systems—demonstrated superior outcomes compared to traditional tonic stimulation. Mechanistic investigations revealed that SCS modulates neural pathways, reduces inflammation, and promotes neuroprotection. Additionally, emerging evidence supports its role in motor rehabilitation for spinal cord injury and neurodegenerative diseases. Explantation rates remain low, but concerns persist regarding insufficient pain relief, device limitations, and economic impact. CONCLUSIONS: SCS is a safe and increasingly versatile therapy for chronic pain and motor dysfunction. Continued research is needed to refine patient selection, stimulation strategies, and long-term outcomes.
Nonoperative treatment (NOT) has emerged as a potential alternative to surgery for acute uncomplicated appendicitis in children; although short-term outcomes are often favourable, concerns remain regarding the durability of treatment, the incidence of complications, and long-term failure. Updated meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) may help clarify the comparative safety and effectiveness versus appendectomy. Objective: To assess the safety and effectiveness of NOT compared with appendectomy for uncomplicated appendicitis in children using the highest level of available evidence. Methods: A systematic review of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science was conducted. Results: In this systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 randomized clinical trials including 1480 children and adolescents, NOT (nonoperative antibiotic treatment) was associated with a significantly higher risk of treatment failure at 1 year and an increased incidence of major complications compared to appendectomy. Although NOT resulted in a modestly faster return to school and daily activities, this benefit may be offset by higher rates of readmission and reintervention. Conclusion: Although NOT offers a shorter initial recovery, higher failure rates and major complications limit its role as a primary treatment strategy. The data suggest that appendectomy offers better outcomes in children and adolescents with uncomplicated appendicitis.
Milk plays a major role as protein source in human diet. Among the casein fractions, β-casein, encoded by the CSN2 gene, is characterized by the presence of several polymorphic variants. The most predominant types in dairy cattle are A1 and A2. Phylogenetic analyses confirm that the A2 variant is the original, while A1 is a result of a mutation that can lead to the release of a biologically active peptide (BCM-7) during digestion. The present study aims to assess the allele and genotype frequencies of the CSN2 locus in 30 Holstein-Friesian cows bred at the Academic Technological Complex of Trakia University –Stara Zagora, and to analyze the genetic equilibrium of the population according to the Hardy–Weinberg principle. The analysis was performed with the BovineSNP50 v3 Bead Chip and established the presence of 3 genotypes -A1A1, A1A2 and A2A2. The results exhibit an allele frequency of the A1 allele = 0.4 and of the A2 allele = 0.6, with a χ² test confirming that the population is in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (χ² = 0.37, df = 1, p > 0.05). The witnessed high proportion of heterozygous individuals (A1A2) provides an opportunity for selection towards the A2A2 genotype. These results are fundamental for the development of breeding programs aiming the production of A2 β-casein milk, which has a growing consumer demand and potential health benefits.
The aim of the study is to detect the changing trends of biochemical indicators in some of the most popular apple varieties as a result of climate factors. Their impact on the biochemical characteristics of apple fruits in the Kyustendil valley (Bulgaria) is followed for the period 2020–2025. Four standard apple varieties have been analyzed – Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious and Florina. The observed biochemical indicators are total dissolved sugars (Brix), electrical conductivity (EC), acidity (pH), redox potential (Eh), vitamin C, dissolved salts and solids (Salts and TDS). The results manifest a distinct trend towards an increase in temperatures and a decrease in precipitation, leading to an increase in Brix, EC, TDS, Salts, and vitamin C in all varieties, as well as a disruption of the salt balance in drier years. Eh and pH remain unchanged. Correlation analysis reveals links between temperature stress and some biochemical responses of plants, which has potential implications for agricultural practice, the food industry, and adaptation to climate change.
Basic external morphometric characteristics, including a detailed colorimetric analysis, were studied in eggs from three subspecies of the Common Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus Linnaeus, 1758), reared for restocking purposes in Bulgaria. A total of 120 fresh eggs from each of three Common Pheasant subspecies bred in captivity on pheasant farms in Bulgaria were collected to evaluate external egg characteristics. Morphometric traits, such as weight, major and minor axes were measured to calculate the egg shape index and shell surface area. Eggshell colour was assessed using the CIE L*a*b*colour space, and additional parameters, such as chroma and shell colour index were also calculated. Significant differences were observed among the subspecies in terms of egg weight, minor axis length, and shell surface area (p< 0.001). The colorimetric analysis revealed statistically significant differences in all examined shell colour traits between Phasianus colchicus karpowi Buturlin (1904) and the other two subspecies - Phasianus colchicus mongolicus Brandt (1844) and Phasianus colchicus colchicus Linnaeus (1758) (p< 0.05). The study revealed significant inter-subspecific variation in egg morphometric and shell colour traits, with P. c. karpowi differing markedly from P. c. mongolicus and P. c. colchicus.
PURPOSE: Effects of raw and treated Moringa oleifera seed meals(MOSM) on performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens was investigated using 180 day-old sexed male Arbor acre chickens. METHODS: Broilers were subjected to five dietary treatments as follows; Diet 1 served as the control and contained no Moringa oleifera seed meal (MOSM), diet 2 is raw MOSM, diets 3, 4, and 5 are ammonium hydroxide Moringa oleifera seed meals(AHMOSM) included at the same 5% level respectively in a Completely Randomized Design. Each treatment was replicated thrice with 12 birds per replicate in the experiment which lasted 35 days. RESULTS: Data analysis indicated that daily weight gain and daily feed intake were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by the inclusion of treated MOSM group and the control while daily weight gain, daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio were significantly (p<0.05) affected by the inclusion of raw MOSM. Birds fed a diet containing 30% AHMOSM showed the highest values for the daily weight gain (61.993 g), and daily feed intake (104.737 g), while feed conversion ratio favoured birds on 20% AHMOSM (1.677) among the treatment group. AHMOSM also showed a significant (p<0.05) effect on all the prime cut and organs of broilers. Birds fed control diet had significant (p<0.05) highest live weight, dressed weight and dressing percentage values followed by those fed 20% dietary doses of AHMOSM. CONCLUSIONS: MOSM can replace soya bean meal in broiler chick diet sup to 5% without deleterious effect on the growth performance and carcass characteristics.
