International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science

INTERPRETATION CHALLENGES OF ENGLISH ANALYTICAL TERMS FOR EFL LEARNERS: A LINGUISTIC STUDY OF SEMANTIC TRANSPARENCY AND CONTEXTUAL CUES

2025-11-11T05:29:01+00:00

This study explores the interpretation challenges posed by English analytical terms among B2-level EFL learners, emphasizing the multidimensional factors that influence semantic comprehension. Analytical terms—lexical units encoding complex, domain-specific concepts—are ubiquitous in academic and professional discourse but often lack semantic transparency, creating significant cognitive and linguistic barriers for non-native speakers. Employing a mixed-methods design, the research investigates learner engagement with selected terms from the EMN (European Migration Network) Asylum and Migration Glossary across three stages: a structured questionnaire, a multiple-choice test on isolated terms, and a contextualized comprehension task. The analysis examines how linguistic phenomena such as polysemy, synonymy, and homonymy contribute to semantic ambiguity and misinterpretation, and evaluates the role of contextual metadata—definitions, examples, and usage cues—in facilitating accurate comprehension. Findings indicate that learners struggle to interpret analytical terms when presented in isolation, particularly when lexical components do not transparently reflect the underlying institutional or conceptual meaning. Terms such as talent partnership and single permit exemplify how semantic opacity and cross-contextual variation hinder intuitive understanding. However, comprehension improves markedly when terms are embedded in authentic discourse, underscoring the importance of contextual framing.

The study also identifies learner strategies for decoding and retaining specialized vocabulary, including contextual inference, morphological analysis, and reliance on prior domain exposure. By integrating linguistic, cognitive, and contextual dimensions, this research contributes to both terminology studies and EFL pedagogy. It highlights the pedagogical imperative to incorporate term-focused instruction into curriculum design and to develop targeted resources that enhance learners’ accuracy, fluency, and confidence in navigating academic and professional texts.

THE BACTERICIDAL PROTEINS OF THE EPIDERMIS

2025-10-30T22:26:12+00:00

The skin is the biggest human’s organ. It is concerned with plenty of functions, such as: providing protection against harmful factors of the external environment, both chemical and physical, or regulating temperature and the amount of evaporating water. It is responsible for receiving sensory stimuli and vitamin D3 synthesis. However, this review focuses on an underestimated role of the skin as a barrier against bacteria, maintained thanks to the human’s natural antibiotics – the antimicrobial proteins of the epidermis.

LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS IN PATIENTS WITH OSTEOPOROSIS - A LITERATURE REVIEW

2025-10-30T16:46:07+00:00

Introduction: Osteoporosis, a common metabolic bone disease affecting over 200 million people globally, causes decreased bone mass and structural deterioration, increasing fracture risk and reducing quality of life. Dental implants have become a standard treatment for tooth loss, providing functional and aesthetic restoration. However, in osteoporotic patients, compromised bone quality may challenge osseointegration and long-term implant stability, requiring careful assessment and individualized planning.

Methodology: A literature review of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar identified recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses on dental implant outcomes in osteoporotic patients, focusing on implant survival, bone loss, and antiresorptive therapy, with studies ≥1-year follow-up included.

Results: Most studies show no significant difference in implant survival between osteoporotic and healthy patients, with rates typically above 90%. Slight but significant marginal bone loss was noted, though clinically minor. Bone density and osseointegration were generally comparable, particularly with individualized care and antiresorptive therapy. Osteonecrosis of the jaw was rare and mainly associated with bisphosphonate use. Age, systemic treatment, and local bone conditions influenced outcomes. Factors including patient age, systemic therapy, and local bone conditions influenced implant outcomes.

Conclusion: Dental implants in osteoporotic patients demonstrate high survival and predictable outcomes. Minor bone loss is manageable with monitoring and preventive care. Although antiresorptive therapy may increase osteonecrosis risk, interdisciplinary management minimizes complications. Osteoporosis should not be viewed as a contraindication for implant therapy, though further research is needed to refine treatment protocols.

EXPLORING THE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF FECAL MICROBIOTA TRANSPLANTATION IN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE

2025-11-07T18:42:57+00:00

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract associated with dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has emerged as a microbiome-based therapeutic approach aimed at restoring a healthy microbial ecosystem.

Methods: A narrative review was performed, incorporating recent randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and meta-analyses published in peer-reviewed journals. The review focused on studies investigating FMT as a therapeutic approach for inducing or maintaining IBD.

Results: Originally validated for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection, FMT has shown promising results in IBD, particularly in inducing clinical and endoscopic remission in patients with active UC. Evidence suggests that treatment response is influenced by factors including donor microbiota composition, disease severity, baseline microbiome of recipients, and administration protocols. Despite encouraging outcomes, heterogeneity in study design, stool preparation, delivery methods, and treatment schedules limits definitive conclusions. Moreover, the efficacy of FMT for maintenance of remission in UC or induction and maintenance of remission in CD remains uncertain. Safety data are generally favorable in the short term, though long-term risks and standardized procedural protocols require further investigation.

Conclusions: Overall, FMT offers a unique strategy to modulate gut microbial composition and investigate causal relationships in IBD pathogenesis, but well-designed, large-scale studies are needed to establish optimized protocols, long-term efficacy, and safety across diverse patient populations.

ANALGESIC PHARMACOTHERAPY IN DYSMENORRHEA AND THE RISK OF DEVELOPING CHRONIC MIGRAINE

2025-11-08T20:04:37+00:00

Introduction and Purpose: Dysmenorrhea, particularly primary dysmenorrhea, is a common gynecological condition characterized by cyclical and often severe pain, typically managed with analgesics such as NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and opioids. Habitual, suboptimal, or excessive use of these medications may facilitate the transformation of episodic headaches into chronic forms through central sensitization and receptor-level changes in the central nervous system. Despite widespread pharmacotherapy, comprehensive synthesis regarding its role in chronic migraine development is lacking. This review systematically summarizes data from cohort, case-control, and interventional studies to evaluate the relationship between dysmenorrhea pharmacotherapy and chronic migraine risk. The study examines whether medication type, frequency of use, and patient-related factors—including age at dysmenorrhea onset, pain severity, comorbid psychiatric disorders, and use of migraine prophylactic agents—modulate this risk.

Results: Medication overuse headache (MOH) arises from excessive use of acute headache medications in patients with primary headache disorders, most commonly migraine. Opioids, butalbital-containing analgesics, acetaminophen–aspirin–caffeine combinations, and triptans confer the highest risk of chronification, while NSAIDs carry moderate risk and hormonal therapies may reduce pain frequency and intensity, potentially decreasing the need for frequent analgesic use. Frequent acute medication use (NSAIDs or acetaminophen ≥15 days/month, opioids/triptans ≥10 days/month), early dysmenorrhea onset, severe pain, and comorbid psychiatric conditions significantly increase MOH and chronic migraine risk. Implementation of prophylactic therapies and patient education can reduce reliance on acute medications and mitigate headache chronification.

Conclusion: Analgesic use in dysmenorrhea carries a risk of chronic migraine development, particularly with high-frequency or high-risk medications. Hormonal therapies, prophylactic strategies, individualized treatment, and monitoring of acute medication use are critical to minimize MOH and optimize long-term outcomes.

PROPOLIS SUPPLEMENTATION - EFFECTS ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, SKIN, BONE HEALTH, AND CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

2025-11-11T05:52:39+00:00

Introduction: In recent years, many sports supplements have incorporated several natural ingredients. One notable example is propolis, a bee-derived substance rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and vitamins. Research indicates that bee glue has several therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. These mechanisms support wound healing, strengthen the immune system, combat respiratory infections, improve both recovery and physical capacity, all of which may collectively lead to enhanced athletic performance.

Aim of the study: This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of propolis properties. Through a detailed discussion and review of the evidence supporting the beneficial effects of propolis supplementation on the skin, as well as the muscular, skeletal, and cardiovascular systems.

Material and method: This article presents the current state of knowledge about the effects of propolis supplementation. A literature review was gathered using PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar platforms, with a focus on papers from the last five years. The search included the keywords ‘propolis’, ‘antioxidant activity’, ‘anti-inflammatory’, ‘exercise’, ‘skin regeneration’, and ‘cardiovascular function’.

Results: Literature review revealed that propolis emerges as a multi-target phytocomplex that attenuates inflammation, augments antioxidant defenses, and favorably modulates vascular and musculoskeletal function across pre-clinical models. Synergistic effects with exercise, biomaterial carriers, and microbiota-directed strategies underscore opportunities for combination interventions.

THE PROTECTIVE POWER OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: INSIGHTS INTO COLON POLYPS AND COLORECTAL CANCER

2025-11-11T06:30:25+00:00

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide. Regular physical activity (PA) is increasingly recognized as a modifiable factor influencing both cancer prevention and patient outcomes. This review summarizes current evidence on the role of PA in CRC prevention, treatment, and survivorship, emphasizing its clinical significance and underlying biological mechanisms.

Methods: A narrative review of recent randomized trials, cohort studies, and meta-analyses published in peer-reviewed journals was conducted. Studies addressing PA in relation to CRC incidence, recurrence, postoperative recovery, and treatment-related outcomes were included.

Results: Evidence consistently demonstrates that regular PA reduces the risk of colorectal adenomas and cancer by approximately 20–30%. In CRC survivors, structured exercise programs improve physical and psychological well-being, mitigate treatment-related side effects, and may decrease recurrence and mortality risk. Randomized trials such as CHALLENGE and PHYSSURG-C highlight that supervision, intensity, and duration are critical for achieving clinical benefits. The beneficial effects of PA are mediated by metabolic, inflammatory, and immune pathways, including improved insulin sensitivity, reduced systemic inflammation, and enhanced immune function.

Conclusions: Regular physical activity should be considered as a component of colorectal cancer prevention and survivorship care, offering measurable benefits for both clinical outcomes and quality of life.

KNOWLEDGE OF RISK FACTORS FOR CERVICAL CANCER AND METHODS OF DIAGNOSIS AND PREVENTION AMONG THE PROFESSIONAL GROUP OF POLISH ARMY PILOTS AND STUDENTS OF THE JOHN PAUL II UNIVERSITY OF BIAŁA PODLASKA

2025-11-11T06:50:36+00:00

Introduction and aim of the study: Cervical cancer is a common malignant tumor of the female reproductive system, developing in the cervix. Currently, cervical cancer is considered curable, provided it is detected at an early stage and appropriate treatment is promptly initiated. This work aims to present the results of research on the level of awareness on the cervical cancer, methods of diagnosis and prevention among the professional group of Polish Army pilots and students of the John Paul II University of Biała Podlaska.

Material and Methods: The study was conducted using an anonymous survey questionnaire. The data was collected between January and April 2025. 121 correctly completed surveys were collected and then analyzed.

Summary: The conducted research results allow us to conclude that the definition of cervical cancer, the risk factors for infection, and the methods of preventing infection are well-known terms for the studied group. Additionally, participants learn about new screening tests for cervical cancer.

NEUROIMMUNOLOGICAL MECHANISMS LINKING PRIMARY DYSMENORRHEA AND MIGRAINE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

2025-11-11T17:25:48+00:00

Introduction and Purpose: Primary dysmenorrhea and migraine are among the most prevalent pain disorders in women of reproductive age, often coexisting and exhibiting overlapping pathophysiological mechanisms. This systematic review aims to identify and summarize the shared neuroimmunological pathways that may underlie both conditions, with particular emphasis on inflammatory mediators, neuropeptides, hormonal modulation, and glial activation.

Results: The analysis of studies published between 2000 and 2025 reveals consistent evidence of increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and prostaglandins (especially PGE₂) in both disorders. These mediators contribute to peripheral and central sensitization, amplifying nociceptive signaling. Pain-related neuropeptides such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and substance P are involved in neurogenic inflammation, vascular dysregulation, and microglial activation within central pain pathways. Moreover, estrogen fluctuations appear to modulate both immune and neuronal responses, influencing microglial phenotype and cytokine release, thereby explaining the cyclic nature and female predominance of these conditions.

Conclusion: Dysmenorrhea and migraine share a common neuroimmune-endocrine framework, in which inflammatory mediators, neuropeptides, and hormonal fluctuations interact to enhance pain sensitivity. Recognition of these shared mechanisms provides a foundation for developing integrated therapeutic approaches targeting COX-2, CGRP, and microglial activation. Future translational research combining animal models with clinical data is essential to refine and personalize treatment strategies for both disorders.

BENEFITS OF SOCIAL DANCING AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH COGNITIVE DECLINE AND NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

2025-11-11T20:08:41+00:00

Research objectives: This review aims to synthesize the current evidence on social dancing for older adults, with particular emphasis on its therapeutic benefits for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Methods: A literature review was gathered using PubMed and Google Scholar, emphasizing papers published in the last five years. The search included the keywords ‘dance’, ‘cognitive function’, and ‘physical activity’.

Key findings and conclusions: The expansion and ongoing advancement of modern medicine correlates with the increase in the older adult population. As a result, cognitive decline has become one of the major health problems associated with advanced age. Nearly 50% of individuals over 85 years are suffering from dementia and related neurodegenerative diseases. Extending healthy life expectancy has become a cardinal priority for public-health systems and biomedical research alike. Despite ongoing efforts, the search for low-cost, scalable interventions that can simultaneously preserve neural function, functional mobility, and psychosocial well-being remains incomplete. Studies show that dance-based exercise is a promising candidate. Accumulated findings indicate that dance constitutes a biologically and psychosocially potent intervention, simultaneously enhancing cardiovascular efficiency, maintaining neuromuscular integrity, promoting neuroplastic remodelling, and improving emotional well-being.

IS THERE A PATH TO LASTING RELIEF? A REVIEW OF PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT FOR VULVODYNIA

2025-11-18T01:59:44+00:00

Introduction: Vulvodynia is defined as discomfort of the vulva that lasts for at least three months and is clinically considered an idiopathic pain syndrome, presenting both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.While non-pharmacological interventions such as pelvic floor physical therapy and psychotherapy provide relief for some patients, many require pharmacological treatment for persistent discomfort. Despite the availability of various pharmaceutical options, standardized treatment protocols are lacking, and comparative efficacy data remain limited. This review examines current pharmacological approaches for vulvodynia and assesses their effectiveness in managing symptoms.

Results: Following a rigorous selection process, 29 articles met the inclusion criteria. The available evidence supports the efficacy of oral medications, particularly amitriptyline as a first-line treatment, and topical lidocaine in managing vulvodynia. Furthermore, the integration of physiotherapy alongside pharmacological management appears to enhance patient outcomes. Botulinum toxin injections did not yield statistically significant improvement in the studies included in the review.

Conclusions: Amitriptyline and topical lidocaine have demonstrated efficacy for vulvodynia, particularly when combined with physiotherapy. Future research should focus on investigating the long-term efficacy of combined therapies and exploring the underlying mechanisms of vulvodynia to develop targeted treatments.

ADVANCES IN ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE TREATMENT

2025-11-18T04:54:38+00:00

Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains one of the greatest challenges in modern medicine, serving as the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. Despite decades of research, effective causal treatment is still not available, and current therapies mainly focus on alleviating symptoms. However, in recent years, there has been significant progress in therapies targeting pathological proteins – amyloid β (Aβ) and tau – offering hope for modifying the course of the disease. In this review, we discuss the latest achievements in AD treatment, including clinical trial results involving monoclonal antibodies (lecanemab, donanemab), the role of biomarkers in early diagnosis, and the impact of non- pharmacological interventions such as diet and physical activity. Additionally, we analyze the challenges associated with anti-amyloid therapy, including side effects and limitations of current methods. We also emphasize the importance of personalized medicine and future research directions that may lead to breakthroughs in Alzheimer's disease therapy.

Materials and methods: This review was conducted systematically to identify and analyze relevant scientific literature regarding advancements in the treatment and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. The PubMed database was searched. Articles were searched using the following words: "Anti-amyloid therapies"; "Alzheimer's disease"; "Lekanemab"; "Donanemab"; "Alzheimer's biomarkers"; "Cerebrospinal fluid"; "CSF"; "Tau protein"; "Non- pharmacological interventions"; "Mediterranean diet"; "Dementia prevention"; "Amyloid- related imaging abnormalities"; "Disease-modifying therapies”; „traumatic brain injury”.