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Could psychedelic-assisted therapy change addiction treatment?

A new special series of articles in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs highlights the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy for treating alcohol dependence, opioid addiction, and other substance use disorders. Promising results suggest that this approach can lead to higher abstinence rates than conventional therapy alone.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 26, 2024

Alcohol consumption patterns and mortality among older adults with health-related or socioeconomic risk factors

A UK cohort study reveals that even low-risk alcohol consumption is linked to increased mortality among older adults with health-related or socioeconomic risk factors. The findings suggest that healthier lifestyles may play a role in the observed attenuation of mortality for wine drinkers and those who drink only during meals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

What happens to your brain when you drink with friends?

A UTEP study using fruit flies reveals that social settings enhance the stimulant effect of ethanol, linked to increased activity in the D1 dopamine receptor. This finding may lead to a better understanding of Alcohol Use Disorder and its vulnerability to social influences.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·JournalAddiction Biology·DateAug 6, 2024

What research reveals about doctors’ reluctance to address addiction

A national research study found that a lack of institutional support is the top reason doctors are reluctant to discuss addiction with their patients. The study also highlighted knowledge and skill gaps as significant barriers to delivering evidence-based interventions.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 30, 2024

New research explores alcohol’s impact on the heart

Two studies shed light on alcohol consumption and its negative impact on heart function in women taking estrogen replacement therapy. Researchers found that abstinence from alcohol can prevent most alcohol-associated risks of atrial fibrillation, highlighting the potential for new anti-AFib strategies.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJul 22, 2024

Farming under the influence?

A new University of Georgia study reveals that one in five US farmers report binge drinking when they experience high levels of stress. The survey also found that farmers consume alcohol at similar rates as the general public, but those who reported feeling supported by community resources were less likely to drink excessively.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Agromedicine·DateJul 16, 2024

Researchers identify brain region involved in oxycodone relapse

Scripps Research scientists have identified the posterior paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus as a key brain region involved in stress-induced oxycodone relapse. Exposure to suvorexant, which blocks orexin signaling, reduced drug-seeking behavior and prevented relapse.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateJul 9, 2024
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

European countries differ in their drinking styles – what is yours?

A new study reveals six drinking patterns in Europe, with countries like Estonia and Cyprus showing the highest average alcohol-attributable deaths. The research suggests that changing these patterns requires a cultural shift and may involve implementing effective alcohol policies.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 24, 2024

Risky drinking even riskier for women

A significant number of Australian women (over 300,000) are drinking at very high-risk levels, with a greater proportion of men consuming alcohol at similar rates. Women are more susceptible to health problems from excessive drinking and may be affected by their natural biological rhythms.

SourceFlinders University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Review·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 20, 2024
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Inflight alcohol + cabin pressure may threaten sleeping passengers’ heart health

A recent study found that the combination of alcohol and cabin pressure during long-haul flights can lower blood oxygen levels and raise heart rates, even in young and healthy individuals. The researchers suggest that restricting access to alcohol on board may be necessary to protect passenger heart health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThorax·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 3, 2024

Young adults reduced drinking during and after pandemic

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University found that young adults who were heavy drinkers before the pandemic reduced their alcohol consumption significantly during and after the pandemic. The study also showed a decrease in negative emotions and no change in using alcohol as a coping mechanism.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeObservational study·DateMay 2, 2024

Trends in deaths of despair by race and ethnicity

Midlife mortality rates for deaths of despair, including suicide, overdose, and liver disease, vary by race and ethnicity, with higher rates among Black and American Indian/Alaska Native populations. Early mortality from drug- and alcohol-related causes contributes to these disparities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 10, 2024
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A deep dive into the genetics of alcohol consumption

Research analyzed genetic data from 3 million individuals and found connections between gene variants influencing alcohol use and many non-alcohol-related conditions. Individuals with protective alleles had better health but also worse outcomes in certain areas, such as tobacco use and skin cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEBioMedicine·DateApr 5, 2024

Binge drinking among sports gamblers

A recent survey study reveals binge drinking is more prevalent among sports wagering individuals compared to nongamblers and non–sports gamblers. This finding highlights the need for targeted interventions to address excessive alcohol consumption in this demographic.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 1, 2024

How blocking a neural receptor responsible for addiction could reduce alcohol use

Researchers have found that LY2444296, a compound blocking the kappa opioid receptor, significantly reduced withdrawal symptoms and alcohol consumption in rats with alcohol dependence. The study suggests that blocking this receptor could lead to new treatment options for people experiencing alcohol use disorder.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 29, 2024

Alcohol raises heart disease risk, particularly among women

A large study found that drinking more than one drink per day can increase the risk of coronary heart disease, especially among young to middle-aged women. The risk was highest among those who engaged in binge drinking, with women facing a 68% higher risk compared to moderate drinkers.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 28, 2024
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

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Proceed with caution – the meteoric rise of zero-alcohol drinks

A recent study by Flinders University found that parents are conflicted and concerned about zero-alcohol drinks due to their similarity in taste and appearance. The research suggests that providing these drinks to adolescents may normalize alcohol consumption, leading to increased risks of harm.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateMar 4, 2024

Treating adolescent opioid use disorder in primary care

A survey study reveals primary care pediatricians lack preparedness in managing adolescent OUD, with a notable gap compared to other substance use disorders. The results underscore the importance of workforce training programs to address this critical healthcare issue.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 26, 2024
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

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Heavy alcohol, drug use linked to increased risk of falls among people with HIV

A new study has found that heavy alcohol use and illicit opioid use are linked to a higher risk of falls and fractures among people living with HIV. The study suggests the need for targeted clinical screening and interventions to prevent falls and related injuries, particularly among populations already at risk.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Pitt receives new grant to improve opioid use disorder treatment

The University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy's PERU has received a $7.8 million grant to develop and implement measurement-based care into community opioid treatment programs across Pennsylvania. This project aims to improve treatment access, promote recovery, and reduce fatal overdoses by addressing patient needs through personaliz...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJan 30, 2024

Women farm owners more apt to binge drink

A study by University of Georgia researchers found female farmers report higher levels of stress and are more likely to binge drink when they do consume alcohol. The pattern holds true for those who own or manage farms, where women face unique challenges in male-dominated industries.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 24, 2024

AA attendance lower among African American, Hispanic and young populations

A new study found that African Americans, Hispanics/Latinx, and young adults are less likely to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings compared to White counterparts. The study also found that these disparities have persisted despite the evolution of AA and the availability of alternative mutual-help groups.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeSurvey·DateJan 24, 2024

Stigma a barrier to women accessing drug and alcohol treatment

A new study by Staffordshire University has found that stigma in drug and alcohol treatment services can lead to emotional harm for women. The research reveals that women are often stigmatised and shamed when seeking support from professionals.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateJan 19, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

For surgery patients, AI could help reduce alcohol-related risks

A new study suggests that using artificial intelligence to scan surgery patients' medical records can identify those with risky drinking habits who may benefit from education or treatment. The AI system analyzed over 53,000 patient records and found three times more patients with high-risk alcohol use than diagnosis codes alone.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAlcohol Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 12, 2024

Study identifies peptide as key mediator in heavy alcohol drinking

A study from Boston University School of Medicine identifies pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) as a critical player in heavy alcohol consumption. PACAP's action in the brain's bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) region is found to be linked to increased stress responses and excessive drinking behavior.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournaleNeuro·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2023

1 in 8 older adults use cannabis products, suggesting need to screen for risks

A new study published in Cannabis and Cannabinoids Research found that 12% of people aged 50-80 have consumed a THC-containing substance in the past year. Those who drink alcohol at risky levels have a higher rate of cannabis use, highlighting the need for education and screening for older adults.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCannabis and Cannabinoid Research·TypeSurvey·DateDec 1, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Older adults with alcohol use disorder experience improved quality of life through alcohol treatment

Recent research from the University of Southern Denmark suggests that even modest reductions in alcohol consumption and participation in treatment can improve quality of life for older adults aged 60 and above with notable alcohol intake. A study utilizing data from the Elderly Study found significant improvements across all domains, i...

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalAlcohol Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 17, 2023

Study reduces ‘vivid imagery’ that fuels addiction cravings

Researchers tested EMDR, a therapy proven to treat PTSD and depression, to reduce addiction cravings. The study found Addiction-focused EMDR was as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy for cravings, reducing symptoms by clinically significant amounts.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Evidence-Based Social Work·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2023

Smartphones and smart speakers may be able to detect alcohol intoxication by analyzing voice patterns: Study

Researchers found that changes in voice patterns predicted alcohol intoxication with 98% accuracy. The study suggests that smartphones and smart speakers could be used to deliver 'just-in-time interventions' to prevent injuries and deaths from motor vehicle accidents.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

Treating high-risk drinking, alcohol use disorder: new Canadian guideline

The new Canadian guideline aims to reduce harms associated with high-risk drinking and support people's treatment and recovery from AUD. It provides 15 evidence-based recommendations for primary health care providers to implement effective screening and treatment interventions.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 16, 2023

Fathers’ parental leave might protect men against alcohol-related morbidity

A Swedish study finds that fathers' parental leave is associated with a 34% decrease in alcohol-related hospitalizations among fathers, as well as smaller decreases over time. The policy change led to increased fathers' use of parental leave, which may explain the observed health benefits.

SourceStockholm University·JournalAddiction·TypeObservational study·DateOct 6, 2023
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Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

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Overlooked part of brain could play critical role in addiction recovery

A neglected brain region has been identified as a key player in addiction recovery. The supplementary motor cortex was found to be hyperexcitable in individuals with cocaine use disorders, even after withdrawal periods of 45 days. This discovery may lead to new treatment approaches using transcranial magnetic stimulation.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 24, 2023

Looking out for kids: a case for better pediatric trauma interventions

Researchers found a significant increase in pediatric trauma admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic, with younger patients and falls from moderate heights being more common. Blood alcohol levels were also higher in patients aged 14-18 years old, suggesting targeted interventions to curb alcohol use may be needed

SourceCactus Communications·JournalPediatric Investigation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 23, 2023

Gene therapy may offer a new treatment strategy for alcohol use disorder

Researchers have discovered that gene therapy may prevent relapse in patients with serious alcohol addiction by altering dopamine function in the brain's mesolimbic reward pathway. The treatment involves sustained release of glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in a specific region of the brain.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 14, 2023

Study shows promise of gene therapy for alcohol use disorder

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have found that implanting a specific molecule in the brain can effectively reduce alcohol use among chronic heavy drinkers. The study showed a 90% reduction in drinking behavior in nonhuman primates, with the implanted virus permanently increasing dopamine levels and reducing cravings.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Alcohol consumption among adults with a cancer diagnosis

A study of 15,000 adults found that alcohol consumption and risky drinking behaviors were prevalent among cancer survivors. The findings highlight the need for additional research to address the emerging concern of alcohol consumption in cancer patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 10, 2023

Trends in alcohol-related deaths by sex

A recent study found a significantly higher rate of increase in deaths among female individuals due to alcohol-related causes. The findings underscore the importance of investigating specific factors contributing to this trend.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 28, 2023

Korean Red Ginseng can alleviate addictive effects of alcohol, find Sahmyook University researchers

Researchers found that Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) can restore spatial working memory and reduce withdrawal symptoms in mice exposed to alcohol. KRG suppresses the PKA-CREB signaling pathway and inhibits neuroinflammation, suggesting its potential as a novel therapeutic intervention for treating alcohol use disorder.

SourceSahmyook University·JournalJournal of Ginseng Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Researchers discover group of genes that influence pain and brain communication can also influence alcohol use disorder risk

A study published in Alcohol: Clinical and Experimental Research found that a group of genes involved in neuronal plasticity and pain perception are also associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD) risk. These genes work together to influence neural communication, leading to changes in brain function that can contribute to AUDs.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalAlcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research·DateJul 17, 2023

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia reduces alcohol-related harm among veterans in treatment

A study by Dr. Mary Beth Miller found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia effectively reduced negative outcomes associated with excessive drinking among veterans. CBT improved insomnia symptoms, which in turn decreased cravings and negative behaviors related to alcohol consumption.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 12, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Substance use linked to long-lasting brain changes, cognitive decline

Researchers at Texas A&M University found that substance use impairs cognitive flexibility by inhibiting specific neurons. Chronic cocaine or alcohol use alters the local inhibitory brain circuit, leading to decreased cognitive flexibility and increased risk of academic deficits and lower quality of life.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 11, 2023

People with alcohol use disorder impaired after heavy drinking, despite claims of higher tolerance

Researchers found that individuals with AUD displayed less impairment on fine motor and cognitive tasks when consuming a standard dose of alcohol, but showed significant impairment at a higher dose. This suggests that the physical effects of alcohol accumulation contribute to impaired performance beyond mere tolerance.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalAlcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 18, 2023
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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Alcohol harm reduction can also reduce other substance use

A study found that harm reduction treatment reduced substance use, including cannabis and polysubstance use, among people experiencing homelessness. Participants in the treatment group used cannabis 41% fewer days than the control group. The approach led to improved quality of life and basic needs, making it a sustainable option.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateJun 14, 2023

Cortical thinning is associated with altered neurotransmission in young adults with a history of heavy drinking since adolescence

Young adults with a history of heavy drinking since adolescence exhibit lower cortical gray matter thickness and altered neurotransmission, according to a recent study. Cortical thinning is associated with increased inhibitory neurotransmission, especially in the frontal and parietal lobes.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAlcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research·DateJun 12, 2023

Alcohol dependency in adolescence, but not consumption, linked with later depression risk

A study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that adolescents with signs of alcohol dependence are more likely to develop depression by their mid-20s. This association remained after adjusting for potential confounding factors, suggesting a causal relationship between alcohol dependence and subsequent depression.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJun 1, 2023
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Genetic risk information may help people avoid alcohol addiction

Researchers found that individuals understood genetic risk scores and reported intentions to reduce their drinking if they had high-risk scores. However, the study's authors caution that receiving genetic feedback is just the first step in behavior change, and connecting individuals to resources and support is crucial.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2023

Heavy drinkers risk muscle loss, new study finds

A recent study published in Calcified Tissue International found that heavy drinkers are at risk of muscle loss and frailty. The research, which analyzed data from the UK Biobank, suggests that consuming 10 units or more of alcohol per day can lead to lower muscle mass, even when adjusted for body size and other factors.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalCalcified Tissue International·TypeObservational study·DateMay 24, 2023