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.

AN ARTICLE ON DATAMINING IN GAMES AND THE SCHEMA SYSTEM

2025-11-27T06:08:42+00:00

Data mining, the process of discovering patterns and knowledge from large amounts of data, has become an indispensable discipline in the 21st century. While its conceptual roots and the term itself emerged in the late 1980s and 1990s, the exponential growth in data generation and computational power has propelled it to the forefront of technology. Data mining is not a single method but a collection of techniques and algorithms used to transform raw data into valuable information and actionable insights. This practice has found a critical application in the video game industry, giving rise to the field of "game analytics." The ability to collect data on player behavior on a massive scale, especially with the rise of online and multiplayer games, allows developers to understand their audience, balance gameplay, and improve the user experience iteratively. This article provides an overview of data mining, traces its historical progression, and discusses its importance in modern game development. It concludes with a concrete example: an analysis of the schema system in Valve's Source 2 engine, which exemplifies how a modern game engine is architecturally designed to facilitate data-driven development and analysis.

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”.

HOW TO EFFECTIVELY PROTECT THE HUMAN BODY FROM THE HARMFUL INFLUENCE OF XENOESTROGENS AND OTHER ENDOCRINE DISRUPTORS: PREVENTIVE AND THERAPEUTIC PERSPECTIVES

2025-11-24T05:56:07+00:00

Xenoestrogens constitute a group of endocrine-disrupting chemicals that, by mimicking or interfering with the actions of endogenous estrogens, can affect hormonal balance and reproductive function. Due to their widespread presence in the environment—including plastics, cosmetics, food, and everyday consumer products—complete avoidance of exposure is virtually impossible. However, studies indicate that proper education, lifestyle modifications, and dietary interventions can significantly reduce exposure to these compounds and the associated health risks. This article investigates various strategies for the prevention of xenoestrogen and other endocrine disruptors exposure, the reduction of existing body burdens of these chemicals. The effectiveness of dietary and behavioral interventions is discussed, such as avoiding canned foods and plastic products, as well as using personal care products free from phthalates, parabens, triclosan, and benzophenone-3, all of which have been shown to markedly decrease urinary levels of xenoestrogens and other endocrine disruptors. Therapeutic interventions are also presented, including the use of selected supplements and pharmacological agents such as Chlorella pyrenoidosa, cholestyramine, olestra, coenzyme Q10, melatonin, and multi-strain probiotics, which have demonstrated beneficial effects in reducing the concentrations of endocrine-active compounds and mitigating their toxic effects. These findings underscore the critical role of multifaceted approaches, combining preventative behavioral changes with targeted substance interventions, to effectively mitigate exposure and safeguard public health from ubiquitous endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).

MODERN PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT IN WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER TREATED WITH BCT - A REVIEW ARTICLE

2025-11-25T19:27:25+00:00

Breast carcinoma maintains its status as the most frequently diagnosed malignancy among women globally, with epidemiological data demonstrating the registration of over 2.3 million new cases annually. This trend is characterized by a persistent and concerning increase in incidence rates across various demographic strata. Consequently, optimizing both oncological efficacy and the subsequent quality of life (QoL) has become a primary focus in clinical oncology.

Among the established therapeutic modalities for localized breast cancer, Breast-Conserving Therapy (BCT)—typically involving lumpectomy or partial mastectomy followed by adjuvant radiotherapy—has achieved substantive clinical ascendancy and is now frequently regarded as the standard of care for early-stage disease. This preference is driven by robust Level I evidence indicating oncological outcomes non-inferior to radical mastectomy, coupled with superior patient-reported outcomes (PROs) concerning body image and psychological well-being.

The widespread adoption of this conservative surgical paradigm has generated a corresponding and significant surge in the volume of patients who require comprehensive, evidence-based rehabilitation following their primary treatment course. Despite its minimally invasive nature relative to mastectomy, BCT is frequently associated with long-term functional sequelae. These morbidities can encompass a restricted range of motion (ROM) of the ipsilateral shoulder, the development of lymphedema, chronic neuropathic or myofascial pain syndromes, and generalized functional decline.

In this context, specialized physiotherapeutic intervention becomes an indispensable component of the continuum of care. The structured implementation of rehabilitation protocols aims to mitigate these potential complications, restore optimal biomechanical function, and ultimately, enhance the overall QoL and long-term functional status of the patient population.

The aim of the current paper is to critically present and analyze the latest contemporary approaches and methodological advancements in the field of physiotherapy. This exploration focuses specifically on their application in improving the functional outcomes and addressing the complex physical morbidities encountered in patients who have undergone BCT.

KETOPROFEN IN THE TREATMENT OF SORE THROAT - EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF A NONSTEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUG

2025-11-25T23:40:41+00:00

Sore throat is one of the most common symptoms reported during visits to the primary care physician. In most cases, its cause is a viral infection (90 to 95% of acute pharyngitis in adults and 70-85% in children), but there are also cases of other etiologies of infection or pain resulting from surgical procedures (including dental) or mechanical injuries.

In most cases, symptomatic treatment in the form of antiseptic, analgesic or anesthetic preparations is used to treat sore throat, regardless of the cause. Among the preparations available on the market, those containing ketoprofen have begun to gain popularity, which may prove to be an interesting alternative to the drugs currently used, both in the practice of a general practitioner and in hospital care.

The results of the study indicate that ketoprofen is highly effective in treating sore throats caused by both infections and surgical procedures, including dental procedures. Studies comparing ketoprofen with benzidamine have shown better efficacy of ketoprofen, longer duration of action and fewer side effects. The efficacy of ketoprofen in the pediatric population has also been proven for both the treatment of sore throats of infectious origin and those arising from surgical procedures.

Ketoprofen lysine salt is also effective in relieving pain occurring after tooth extractions, and has a good safety profile. Its efficacy is significantly higher than placebo and comparable to that of paracetamol, with no significant side effects. Thanks to its neutral pH, it also does not irritate the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract.

The findings presented here suggest that ketoprofen may become an effective and safe alternative for the treatment of sore throat and localized oral pain in both outpatient and inpatient care. However, potential side effects should be monitored and further studies should be conducted to clearly assess the safety profile and efficacy of ketoprofen.

COFFEE – A DAILY PLEASURE OR A SILENT ENEMY TO YOUR HEALTH?

2025-11-26T04:39:22+00:00

Introduction and purpose of the study: Coffee has been one of the most commonly consumed stimulants for over 100 years. When it first became popular, it was praised as a remedy for various ailments, although at the time there was no scientific basis for such claims. Later publications reported on the harmful effects of coffee consumption, but over the last 20-30 years, studies have increasingly confirmed the benefits of moderate coffee consumption. The aim of this study is to review the literature on the effects of coffee consumption.

Material and methods: A review of publications in Polish medical literature and the PubMed database was conducted using the keywords: coffee, caffeine, health effects.

Results: Studies confirm the benefits of moderate coffee consumption for the cardiovascular system, neurological health, and metabolism. There is a group of contraindications, mainly related to excessive caffeine consumption, which causes a risk of addiction, adverse behavioral symptoms, and tachycardia.

Conclusions: Drinking coffee in moderate amounts is safe for health. Pregnant and breastfeeding women and people at risk of osteoporosis should consider avoiding coffee or limiting its consumption. The individual effects of coffee consumption should be identified to determine whether drinking this beverage causes headaches or sleep disturbances in a given case.

GASTROINTESTINAL AND HEPATIC MANIFESTATIONS OF SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS – A NARRATIVE REVIEW

2025-11-26T05:11:56+00:00

Introduction and purpose: Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic, multifaceted autoimmune disorder. Throughout its course, it affects multiple organ systems, such as the skin, joints, kidneys, cardiovascular system, and central nervous system, among others. Less frequently observed clinical presentations include gastrointestinal involvement and hepatic symptoms. The objective of this review is to present and familiarise readers with these atypical manifestations, which are mostly not included in the diagnostic criteria for lupus, and which can pose a significant diagnostic challenge.

Description of the state of knowledge: Gastrointestinal (GI) and hepatic symptoms among patients with lupus may be related to the disease itself, but can also result from the side effects of treatment, viral infections, or emerge as a consequence of the overlap of two diseases. The gastrointestinal tract may exhibit symptoms of the disease at practically any point along its course, from the oral cavity to the anus. The most common GI manifestations include conditions such as oral ulcers, dysphagia, lupus enteritis, protein-losing enteropathy, intestinal pseudo-obstruction, and pancreatitis. Rare, but clinically significant presentations of lupus involving the liver, which are important due to their chronic health consequences, include autoimmune hepatitis and lupus hepatitis.

Conclusions: Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus who present with gastrointestinal or hepatic symptoms require prompt diagnosis, as these conditions, if not properly managed, contribute to increased mortality. It is also possible for these manifestations to appear as the initial signs of SLE. Therefore, familiarity with their characteristics is crucial to avoid delays in diagnosis and in the implementation of appropriate treatment.

THE INTERRELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE ORAL MICROBIOME AND RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: EXPLORING MUTUAL INFLUENCES AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

2025-11-26T05:43:34+00:00

Introduction and objective: Periodontitis (PD) is caused by dysbiosis of the oral microbiome (OMB). The prevalence of PD is increased in RA patients. Both conditions have the ability to activate common inflammatory pathways. The OMB shift contributes to more severe course of PD and RA. This paper aims to summarize the impact of OMB on chronic inflammation in the pathogenesis of PD and RA.

Description of the state of knowledge: The OMB can influence chronic inflammation and protein citrullination. The presence of antibodies against citrullinated peptides (ACPA) correlates with an increased incidence and severity of periodontitis. While numerous studies have reported a relationship between the OMB, PD and RA, the role of specific bacteria in RA remains unclear.

Methodology: A literature review was conducted using two databases - PubMed and Google Scholar - with search terms such as "oral microbiome”, “rheumatoid arthritis", "periodontal health”, “oral microbiota”, “periodontal disease”. Articles published within the last eight years were prioritized.

Conclusions: PD is more prevalent and severe particularly in ACPA-positive RA patients. Alterations in OMB are associated with systemic inflammation, contributing to RA progression. and worsening periodontal conditions. Periodontal treatment shows a potential to reduce RA activity, emphasizing the importance of dental care in RA. Anti-inflammatory treatments may restore oral homeostasis. Targeting the OMB offers a potential for managing RA and PD. Further research is needed to establish guidelines for personalized therapies and prophylaxis.

UNCOVERING DERMATILLOMANIA: A REVIEW OF SKIN PICKING DISORDER

2025-11-27T02:23:53+00:00

Background: Excoriation disorder (dermatillomania) is a body-focused repetitive behavior characterized by recurrent skin picking that leads to tissue injury, emotional distress, and impaired functioning. Although formally classified in ICD-11 and DSM-5, the disorder remains underrecognized in clinical settings and often co-occurs with other psychiatric conditions. This review summarizes current evidence on the epidemiology, clinical profile, comorbidity patterns, and available treatment strategies, underscoring its clinical burden and therapeutic relevance.

Methods: A narrative review of peer-reviewed clinical studies, epidemiological analyses, neurobiological investigations, and treatment trials was conducted, focusing on prevalence, risk factors, clinical outcomes, and therapeutic interventions for excoriation disorder.

Results: The disorder affects approximately 3–4% of the population, predominantly females, with onset most often during adolescence and a chronic, relapsing course. Commonly affected areas include the face, arms, and hands, with episodes frequently preceded by anxiety or tension and followed by temporary relief. High rates of comorbidity, particularly with depression, anxiety, OCD, and body dysmorphic disorder, contribute to psychosocial disability, reduced quality of life, and an elevated risk of suicidal ideation. Clinical studies support behavioral therapies, especially cognitive-behavioral approaches such as habit reversal training, as first-line treatment. Pharmacological options, including serotonergic, opioid, or glutamatergic agents, as well as lamotrigine, show benefit in selected cases, although response rates remain variable.

Conclusions: Excoriation disorder is a prevalent and burdensome condition with substantial psychiatric overlap and functional consequences. Early detection and integrated treatment combining behavioral interventions with targeted pharmacotherapy when appropriate are essential to improving outcomes and reducing long-term morbidity.

NEW PERSPECTIVES ON ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS: FROM PATHOPHYSIOLOGY TO PREVENTION AND TREATMENT – A REVIEW ARTICLE

2025-11-27T03:20:13+00:00

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present the physiological changes occurring in the human body with increasing altitude and decreasing barometric pressure, and to summarize current knowledge on high-altitude diseases, with particular emphasis on Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The article outlines the pathophysiological basis of its clinical manifestations, risk factors, diagnostic criteria, differentiation from other conditions, and methods of prevention and treatment. It also aims to raise awareness of high-altitude risks and promote safe practices during mountain travel. This work is intended as educational material for medical students, health professionals, travellers, and those beginning their high-altitude journeys.

Materials and methods: This review paper is based on data obtained from peer-reviewed scientific articles and reports published in reputable databases and journals, including PubMed, Taylor & Francis, CDC, SAGE Journals, ScienceDirect, and Practical Medicine, as well as Modern Management Review, The American Journal of Medicine, PLOS One, and High Altitude Medicine & Biology. The analysis also draws on the official position of the UIAA Medical Commission. Clinical studies, reviews, guidelines, and reports on high-altitude diseases published between 2010 and 2025 in English or Polish were included.

Conclusions: Acute mountain sickness arises from inadequate acclimatization to high-altitude hypoxia. Key risk factors include rapid ascent and prior AMS episodes. Gradual acclimatization is the most effective preventive measure, while pharmacological support may aid high-risk individuals. Early symptom recognition and prompt intervention are essential to prevent severe, potentially life-threatening complications, underscoring the importance of understanding human physiological limits and adaptation in extreme environments.